Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications in Canada, offering an exceptional opportunity for outstanding international doctoral students to gain global research experience. This prestigious scholarship is designed for PhD candidates, particularly Killam Doctoral Scholars at Dalhousie University, who wish to conduct short-term research abroad. With funding of up to $6,000, the program supports overseas research activities by easing financial barriers related to travel and living costs, allowing scholars to fully focus on advancing their academic work in an international setting.
Funded by the Killam Alumni Fund, the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 is highly competitive, with only two awards available each year for top-performing scholars. Eligible candidates must be current holders of the Killam Doctoral Scholarship and may use the funding to conduct research at a foreign university for up to three months outside Canada. Beyond financial support, this scholarship helps recipients build international academic networks, enhance their research profile, and bring back valuable global perspectives to enrich their doctoral studies.
Benefits
Candidates that are selected may be awarded up to $6,000 to cover costs like:
- International travel costs
- Accommodation and meals
- Living expenses during the research period
- Research-related fees and supplies
- Study or travel visas
- Insurance and other necessary expenditures
- The scholarship gives scholars the flexibility to obtain significant international research experience by supporting research stays of up to three months at an institution or place outside of Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
In order to qualify for this scholarship, you need to:
- Own a Level 2 Killam Predoctoral grant or have accepted one.
- Have never received an overseas trip grant, such as the Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplement, or a Killam overseas Research grant.
- Do research at Dalhousie University that is relevant to your graduate studies.
- Do research that necessitates your physical presence in a foreign location.
- At the beginning of your overseas research study time, hold an active Killam grant.
- For the course of your abroad research studies, enroll full-time in a Ph.D. program.
- After obtaining the award notice, make use of the award within a year. Go back to Dalhousie University to finish your degree.
Documents Required
- Online Application Form
- Academic Transcript
- Letters of support
- Outline of proposed research while abroad
- Budget proposal
- A valid passport
- CV/Resume
How to Apply?
- Confirm that you are a current Killam Doctoral Scholar and meet all eligibility requirements
- Prepare a clear research plan explaining your proposed international research activities, objectives, and timeline
- Create a realistic budget outlining expected travel, living, and research expenses
- Obtain a letter of support from your Dalhousie University supervisor
- Secure a confirmation letter from the host supervisor at the overseas institution
- Complete the application through Dalhousie University’s online scholarship system
- Upload all required documents before the application deadline
- Review your application carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete
- Submit the application and wait for the selection results from the university
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 funds exceptional Killam Doctoral Scholars with up to $6,000 for up to three months of international research. Applicants must hold a Level 2 Killam award and submit a proposal, budget, and support letters by February 20, 2026.
What is the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026?
The Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 provides up to $6,000 to current Killam Doctoral Scholars for short-term research abroad. Two awards are offered to help outstanding PhD candidates conduct research outside Canada for up to three months.
Who is eligible for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026?
To be eligible, you must currently hold a Level 2 Killam Doctoral Scholarship and not have previously held this award or similar international travel awards. Your research abroad must be related to your Dalhousie PhD work.
How much funding does the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 provide?
The Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 provides up to $6,000 to offset research expenses abroad. While it may not cover all costs, it is intended to help with travel, living, accommodation, and research-related expenses for a short research period.
What research activities qualify for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026?
Qualifying activities must be directly linked to your PhD research and require you to be physically present at an institution outside Canada. This ensures the award supports meaningful international study experiences.
How long can I use the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 abroad?
Recipients of the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 may conduct research abroad for up to three months. The award supports short-term study periods that contribute to your doctoral research and academic growth.
What documents are required for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 application?
The application for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 requires a budget proposal, a two-page research outline, and two letters of support — one from your current supervisor and one from your host supervisor.
Is the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 competitive?
Yes, it is competitive. Only two awards are available each year, and applications are assessed based on research merit, feasibility, institutional choice, and the contribution of the experience to your doctoral program.
When is the application deadline for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026?
The application deadline for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 is Friday, February 20, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. AST. Applicants must submit all required documents by this date to be considered.
Can I apply if I previously received a similar study abroad award?
No, you cannot apply for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026 if you have already received this award or another international travel award such as the Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplement.
What happens after being selected for the Killam International Research Scholarship 2026?
After selection, recipients must follow university travel policies, complete pre-departure requirements, and document their research experience at different stages to demonstrate the award’s impact on their doctoral work.
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