The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral (CGRS D) program recognizes and supports outstanding doctoral students across health, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities in Canada. It provides high-quality research training to foster innovation and empower awardees to contribute to Canada’s research ecosystem.
The program is jointly administered by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). These federal granting agencies support the next generation of researchers through funding and training initiatives.
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral Benefits
- $40,000 per year
- Duration: 36 months
- Tenure location: Eligible Canadian or international institutions
- Flexibility to hold the award part-time (with approval)
- Opportunity to hold the award abroad (for Canadian citizens/permanent residents)
- Access to joint initiatives and supplements offered by the agencies
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral Eligibility Criteria
- Have completed no more than 36 months of full-time doctoral study by 31 December of the application year
- Be enrolled in a research-oriented doctoral program (including joint professional/PhD programs with a significant research component)
- Not have previously received a doctoral-level scholarship from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC (including Vanier CGS)
- Not hold a tenure-track appointment concurrently with the award
- International applicants: Up to 15% of awards are available; must be enrolled in a doctoral program at a Canadian institution by the application deadline
How to Apply for Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral
- Select the appropriate agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) based on your research field
- Apply through your Canadian institution if it has a doctoral award quota for your agency
- Otherwise, apply directly to the agency
- Prepare documents: transcripts, CV, research proposal (merit-reviewed), references
- Submit via the agency’s online system: CIHR: ResearchNET, NSERC: Online system, SSHRC: Registration & login portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply based on the official program information.
What is the value and duration of the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral?
The scholarship provides $40,000 per year for up to 36 months (3 years). The tenure location can be at eligible Canadian or international institutions, with up to 20% of awards available to be held abroad for eligible applicants.
What are the eligibility criteria for the CGRS D program?
Applicants must have completed no more than 36 months of full-time doctoral study by December 31 of the application year. They must be enrolled in a research-oriented doctoral program and not have previously received a doctoral-level scholarship from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC. International students can apply but must be enrolled at a Canadian institution.
What is the application deadline for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral?
The agency deadline for direct applications is October 17, 2026, at 8:00 PM ET. Institutional deadlines may be earlier, so applicants should contact their institution. Late applications are not accepted.
How do I apply for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral?
Applicants must select the appropriate agency (CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC) based on their research field. They can apply through their Canadian institution if it has a quota, or directly to the agency. Required documents include transcripts, CV, research proposal, and references.
What are the selection criteria for the CGRS D program?
Applications are evaluated on two equally weighted criteria: Research Potential (50%) and Relevant Experience & Achievements (50%). Research potential includes the quality and feasibility of the research proposal, while experience includes academic record and professional activities.
Can international students apply for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship Doctoral?
Yes, up to 15% of awards are available to international students. They must be enrolled in a doctoral program at an eligible Canadian institution by the application deadline. International applicants apply directly to the agency or through their Canadian institution.
What support is available for Indigenous and Black student researchers?
Indigenous applicants can have their applications considered beyond institutional quotas. Each agency reserves up to 10 additional awards for Black student researchers. Self-identification data may be used for priority funding opportunities.
What happens after I submit my application?
Applications are reviewed by institutions (if applicable) and then by agency-specific committees. Results are announced by April 30. Award holders must comply with the Tri-agency research training award holder’s guide.
Can I hold the award part-time or abroad?
Yes, award holders may be eligible to hold the award part-time with approval. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons can hold the award abroad if they have completed at least one previous degree at a Canadian institution.
Where can I find more information or contact the agencies?
For more information, contact CIHR at [email protected], NSERC at [email protected], or SSHRC at [email protected]. Application forms and instructions are available on each agency’s website.
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