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Ph.D. Scholarship in Canada

Updated on 19 September, 2024

Canada is one of the top 5 global study destinations for Ph.D. aspirants, with its research-oriented academic environment and welcoming atmosphere for students. Naturally, numerous international students are drawn to applying for a Ph.D. scholarship in Canada.

The country welcomes global talent as the Canadian Government has announced a permanent residence pathway for 40,000 international graduates. Canada has some of the world’s best universities for teaching and research, with six of its institutions featuring prominently in the top 150 across all leading global rankings.

Students may also live and work in the country for up to three years after finishing their doctorate, thereby enabling a pathway toward permanent residence and citizenship. Canada has close to 100 research universities offering Ph.D. programmes, while universities also have some dedicated doctoral programmes with graduate schools. 

Ph.D. programs in Canada are comparatively more affordable than in many other countries. Fees usually hover between CAD$2,500-17,000 per year, going up to CAD$25,000 in some cases. The country also offers attractive salaries for doctoral graduates. According to Payscale, research scientists earn CAD$58-110,000 per year, while postdoctoral research associates earn CAD$38-64,000 per year. Ph.D. graduates may also work as Assistant Professors, with average salaries of CAD$67-126,000 per year. CA Talent reports average Ph.D. salaries of CAD$84,279 in the country per year. Universities in Canada had R&D of $13 billion in 2014 alone, comprising 40% of overall research and development in the country while conducting $1 billion in research for businesses as well. Close to 1,500 companies were also located at university research parks for the period, with 40% of faculty being globally trained. Needless to say, the figures have only grown since then, making Canada a great place to pursue a Ph.D. 

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Admission Requirements for Ph.D. in Canada

Before delving into the details of Ph.D. in Canada for Indian students with scholarships, it is important to learn more about the admission requirements first. These may vary across educational institutions in Canada. Some general guidelines include the following: 

  • A master’s degree in the subject or a related area of study. 
  • Adherence to minimum grade/GPA requirements, along with demonstrating research potential and abilities. 
  • English language proficiency scores (TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE). 
  • GRE/GMAT scores if required. 

Ph.D. scholarships in Canada for Indian students 

There are several Ph.D. programs in Canada with scholarships for international students, including aspirants from India. Some of the top choices include the following: 

University/Institution Name Scholarship Name Other Details 
Western University Ontario Trillium Scholarship
  • Outstanding international students who are physically present during their courses
  • The student should possess a good academic record and research experience 
  • Should have at least 80% in two recent years of study (full-time)
  • English language proficiency may be required too 
  • Successful candidates will receive annual grants of CAD$40,000, with renewal facilities for up to four years 
University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship
  • Disbursed by the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research 
  • CAD$26 million is disbursed annually in scholarships 
  • The scholarship is individually worth around CAD$21,000 and cannot be renewed 
University of Montreal Doctoral Scholarship
  • It is worth CAD$7,000 
  • It is also renewable only once for students who have completed their master’s courses at the institution 
University of Montreal Mackenzie King Scholarship
  • It is worth CAD$8,500 
  • It has a duration of one year
University of Montreal The University of Montreal Exemption Grant
  • It varies between CAD$2,078.10-12,465.60
  • This is based on the candidate’s educational record
University of British Columbia Four-Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
  • CAD$18,200 as a stipend every year
  • Full tuition coverage for up to four years of the Ph.D. programme
  • All Ph.D. applicants have eligibility for this scholarship 
University of Lethbridge University of Lethbridge Graduate Research Award
  • It is valued up to CAD$21,000 
  • It can be combined with a Graduate Assistantship and/or a Faculty Member Research Stipend
  • Those studying in the field of Education are not eligible 
University of Windsor Graduate Entrance Scholarship
  • CAD$7,500 is disbursed for up to four years
  • There are three application deadlines, namely September, January, and May
  • Candidates should have achieved a minimum average of 80%
University of Manitoba University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
  • Worth CAD$18,000 per year
  • The duration is 12, 24, 36, or 48 months for doctoral candidates 
  • Students should have a minimum GPA of 3.0 at the time of admission

Students can also apply for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (CAD$15,000) or the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship Program (CAD$40,000 each year). Conclusion. 

Conclusion

To conclude, it can be said that Canada offers great future prospects for Ph.D. aspirants, including attractive salaries and employment avenues, research opportunities, highly-ranked institutions, and a good quality of life. There are several Ph.D. scholarships available that can help students from India and other countries fulfill their future aspirations accordingly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do my Ph.D. for free in Canada?

It is possible to do a Ph.D. for free in the country, provided the student obtains a scholarship for the programme. It may cover tuition fees, living costs, research and travel expenses, and even airfare in some cases.

 

 


 

Is an Indian Ph.D. valid in Canada?

A Ph.D. degree completed from an accredited Indian institute will have validity throughout the world. However, students may have to furnish proof of their degrees and academic credentials in case their universities are not well-known globally.

 

 

 

 

 

 


 

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Jyotsna Singh

With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless students by not only enhancing their educational experiences but also by offering them guidance in securing essential scholarships and financial aid. She is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals through tailored guidance and financial support.

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