University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026 in Canada offers international and domestic students a remarkable opportunity to pursue advanced research with financial support. Designed primarily for graduate students (MA and PhD), this fellowship is hosted by the Centre for Studies in Religion and Society (CSRS) at UVic. The program encourages candidates whose projects explore religion within society and culture—whether in historical or contemporary contexts. Starting from September 1, 2026, this one-year fellowship helps reduce academic expenses, while also providing access to an intellectually rich environment where scholars can collaborate, research, and contribute new ideas.
The University of Victoria (UVic), a leading public research university in British Columbia, is highly regarded for its impactful research, excellent faculty, and global reputation. Ranked within the 250–300 range in the QS World University Rankings 2025, UVic stands out as a hub for innovation and scholarly excellence. By combining this fellowship with other scholarships, graduate students can make their study experience more affordable and enriching, gaining access to an institution that is committed to fostering academic growth and cultural understanding.
Benefits
The University of Victoria Graduate Fellowships 2026 in Canada for international Students covers:
- For a maximum of 12 months, the stipend is CAD $6,500 (prorated for shorter periods).
- Photocopying, UVic library & special collections access, mailbox, scanner, and dedicated office space at CSRS.
- Daily coffee and tea gatherings, weekly public lectures, workshops, and an active multidisciplinary group.
- The CSRS Graduate Student Fellowship, Scales Family Fellowship, Ian H. Stewart Graduate Student Fellowship, and the Rev. Heather J. Lindstedt & Dr. Brian A. Pollick Graduate Student Fellowship (for Art History & Visual Studies) are among the named awards that are included.
- To further lower or balance tuition and living expenses, combine this award with departmental or outside support (such as supervisor awards, national scholarships, or tuition exemptions).
Eligibility Criteria
In order to be considered for the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowships 2026 in Canada, students must:
- Graduate students (MA or PhD) at UVic are the main audience, while students from other universities might also be taken into consideration.
- During the fellowship period, you should be working on your thesis or dissertation. (Eligible students may also be one-year MA students in their writing stage.)
- You can only reapply at the PhD level if you have already received a CSRS MA award.
- One CSRS fellowship may be held by a PhD student.
- Fellows often cannot hold overlapping center-based prizes at UVic because the fellowship includes dedicated office space. You must select one and notify CSRS if you win more than one.
- Applicants from other countries are welcome to apply.
- Keep in mind that you are responsible for paying for your own travel, lodging, visa, and insurance.
Documents Required for University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026
- Online Application Form
- Academic Transcript
- a current CV
- two PDF letters of support for the project from both the applicant’s supervisor and another professor, emailed directly to [email protected].
Research Themes
Regardless of the time period, your project should relate religion to society and culture. Some examples are as follows:
- Public policy, gender,
- sexual identity,
- technology,
- conflict,
- ethics,
- health,
- the environment,
- art,
- literature,
- media,
- philosophy,
- the ways in which these fields interface with the natural sciences.
- While it need not be the only focus, religion must play a major role.
- It is advised to use interdisciplinary approaches.
How to Apply?
- Download the CSRS Graduate Student Fellowship application form from the University of Victoria website and fill it out with accurate details.
- Prepare all required supporting documents: updated CV, transcripts of current and past studies, and two recommendation letters (one from your supervisor and one from another professor).
- If your research involves human subjects, make sure you have approval from UVic’s Human Ethics Review Board.
- Send your completed application form and supporting documents by email to [email protected], addressed to Dr. Paul Bramadat, Director of CSRS. Recommendation letters should be emailed directly by referees from their institutional email accounts.
- Double-check that your application is complete before the deadline, as incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.
- Applications are reviewed by the CSRS Program Committee in December, and successful candidates will be contacted after the review process.
- If selected, notify the Centre if you hold other awards since only one CSRS-affiliated fellowship can be accepted at a time. International students should also arrange travel, housing, visa, and health insurance after receiving the fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026 supports MA & PhD research on religion and society, offering $6,500 for one year plus facilities access. Applicants must align with CSRS themes; international candidates can apply. Deadline: November 10, 2025.
Who qualifies for the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship is open to graduate students (MA and PhD) whose projects align with CSRS’s research mandate. Although primarily for UVic students, applicants from other universities whose work fits may also apply.
What research topics are accepted under the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
Projects must engage religion in society or culture (historical or contemporary). Topics may include ethics, health, environment, public policy, gender, technology, law, media, social debates, and intersections with sciences or philosophy.
Can someone holding a CSRS MA fellowship reapply later?
If you’ve had a CSRS fellowship at the MA level, you may only reapply once you are registered in a PhD program. PhD students are eligible for a CSRS fellowship only once.
What is the value and duration of the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship runs for 12 months and provides $6,500. Fellows also gain access to office space, library resources, mailbox, scanner/photocopier services, and participation in CSRS academic and social activities.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a completed application form, a CV, university transcripts (copies acceptable), and two letters of support (in PDF). Letters should come from the candidate’s supervisor and another professor.
What is the deadline for the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
The deadline to apply is Monday, November 10, 2025. All materials must be submitted by this date to be eligible for consideration.
Are international students eligible for the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
Yes, international applicants whose research aligns with the fellowship’s mandate may apply. However, they are responsible for their own travel, housing, visas, and insurance expenses if selected.
What obligations do fellows have during their term?
Fellows must give a public lecture or seminar related to their research and actively engage in regular CSRS events (e.g., weekly lectures, informal meetings) during most of their fellowship period.
How are applications reviewed for the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
Complete applications are reviewed by the CSRS Program Committee in December. The committee evaluates the quality of the research proposal, alignment with CSRS mandate, and applicant’s stage of study.
What costs are not covered by the University of Victoria Graduate Fellowship 2026?
The fellowship does not cover housing, travel, visas, or health insurance. Fellows, especially those coming from outside Victoria, must arrange and fund these elements themselves.
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