The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS), launched by the Government of Canada in 2008, is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs in Canada. The purpose of the Vanier CGS program is to attract and retain world-class doctoral students, while also establishing Canada as a global hub for excellence in research and higher learning. Vanier Scholars are recognized for their outstanding leadership skills, exceptional academic achievements, and contributions to their fields of study in the social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and engineering, and health research.
This program not only offers substantial financial support but also provides an opportunity to work with renowned researchers in Canada, contributing to innovative and impactful research initiatives.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) 2024
Closing Date: October 30, 2024
Student Type: Domestic and International students are eligible
Level of Study: Doctoral
Study Areas: Health research, Natural Sciences and/or Engineering, Social Sciences and Humanities
Scholarship Value: $50,000 per year
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nomination by a Canadian Institution:
You must be nominated by only one Canadian institution that has received a Vanier CGS quota. - Doctoral Program Status:
- You must be pursuing your first doctoral degree.
- You must intend to start full-time doctoral studies at the nominating institution in the summer semester or academic year following the announcement of results.
- Joint graduate research programs are eligible, but only the PhD portion of the program is funded.
- Time in Doctoral Program:
- As of May 1, 2025, you should have completed no more than 20 months of full-time study in your doctoral program (if applicable).
- If the doctoral program begins after the completion of a master’s degree, the months of study are calculated from the doctoral enrollment date.
- If applicable, you should have completed no more than 32 months of full-time study by May 1, 2025, including joint graduate research programs or direct entry from a bachelor’s degree.
- Academic Achievement:
- You must have achieved a first-class average (as defined by your institution) in each of the last two years of full-time study or equivalent. It is recommended that you contact your institution to understand its specific definition of a first-class average.
- Previous Scholarships:
You cannot have already received a doctoral-level scholarship or fellowship from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC to undertake or complete a doctoral program.
How to Apply
To apply for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, applicants must submit an online application and be nominated by a Canadian institution. The institution must have a Vanier CGS quota and submit your application for consideration. Before applying, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and have gathered the necessary documentation, including your academic achievements and program details.
Given the competitive nature of this scholarship, it is important to reach out to the nominating institution for guidance and to ensure your application meets all of their specific requirements and deadlines.
More info: https://vanier.gc.ca/en/home-accueil.html
Additional Tips for Applicants:
- Reach Out Early: Begin your application process early and establish communication with the graduate office or relevant department at the institution to ensure your eligibility and complete nomination process.
- Prepare Strong Academic References: Ensure that your academic references are robust and highlight your leadership, research potential, and academic accomplishments.
- Clarify First-Class Average: Be sure to confirm with your institution how they define a first-class average to ensure that you meet the academic requirements.
- Complete Program Requirements: Make sure that you have not exceeded the time limits for study in your doctoral program to meet the eligibility criteria.
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships are an outstanding opportunity for doctoral students to advance their research in Canada while receiving financial support and recognition for their academic excellence and leadership potential.