Applications are now open for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2025, also known as the Canadian Government scholarship for graduate students. This scholarship was created by the Government of Canada and named after Georges P. Vanier, a Canadian soldier and the country’s first Governor-General. This year, 166 PhD scholarships will be awarded to talented and bright graduates who want to study in Canada and conduct research that benefits society. The scholarships are available to international students, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents.
The scholarship is for students pursuing a PhD, MA/PhD, MD/PhD, or a master's leading to a PhD. It provides funding of $50,000 per year for three years. The scholarship focuses on candidates with strong leadership skills and academic achievements in fields like health sciences, social sciences, humanities, engineering, and natural sciences. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership, and research potential, with no interview required—decisions are made based on the documents applicants submit.
The Vanier CGS is often called the "Rhodes Scholarship of Canada." The application process is different from others: students can’t apply directly but must be nominated by their university or research institute. Applicants must inform their chosen university of their interest in the Vanier scholarship so that the institution can nominate them.
This scholarship helps cover tuition, living expenses, and other study-related costs, making it easier for students to focus on their studies. Canadian universities are known for their high standards and excellent research facilities, giving scholars access to valuable networks, industry connections, and mentorship, which boosts career prospects both in Canada and internationally.
Studying in Canada through the Vanier Scholarship offers more than just academic benefits; it also provides a chance for personal and professional growth in a diverse and multicultural environment. The experience gained can improve global awareness and communication skills, qualities that are highly valued by employers.
The scholarship is available at Canadian universities that have a Vanier CGS quota. It’s a great opportunity to study at one of Canada's top institutions. The funding provided covers tuition, housing, and other expenses. You can find more details about the Vanier Scholarship and other scholarships for studying in Canada on our website.
Fields of Study for Vanier CGS:
- Health Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Engineering
- Social Sciences and Humanities.
Eligibility Criteria for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2025:
- Both the applicant and the nominating university must meet the necessary requirements.
- The scholarship is open to international students, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents of Canada.
- Applicants must be pursuing their first PhD and be enrolled full-time at a Canadian institution.
- They must be nominated by only one university under the Vanier CGS quota.
- Applicants must plan to start a full-time PhD in the summer semester or the academic year after the results are announced.
- Those enrolled in joint degree programs like MD/PhD, DVM/PhD, or JD/PhD are eligible, but only the PhD part will be funded.
- By May 1, 2025, students must have completed no more than 20 months of full-time PhD study (if their PhD began after a master’s).
- If enrolled in a joint graduate program (bachelor’s to PhD without a master’s), applicants must have completed no more than 32 months of study by May 1, 2025.
- They cannot receive any other PhD scholarships or funding.
- Applicants must have a strong research background in their research proposal.
- A first-class average is required in the last two years of full-time study.
- They cannot have received any scholarships from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC.
Benefits of the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 2025:
- $50,000 per year for three years of PhD funding.
- The grant covers tuition and living expenses in Canada.
- A chance to study at a top Canadian university of the applicant’s choice.
- Recipients can travel to Canada for free with the scholarship.
Required Documents for Vanier CGS 2025:
- ResearchNet application form.
- Canadian common CV (CCV/Resume).
- Nomination letter (max 2 pages).
- Academic transcripts.
- Personal Leadership Statement (2 pages for English or 2.5 pages for French).
- Two Leadership reference letters (max 2 pages each).
- Research proposal (2 pages for English or 2.5 pages for French).
- Project references (max 5 pages).
- Research contributions (max 1 page).
- Proof of special circumstances (optional, max 1 page).
- Two referee assessments.
- Other optional documents like part-time status or MD/PhD timeline (max 1 page).
Application Process:
- Applicants cannot apply directly to the Vanier Scholarship. First, they need to choose a university.
- Make sure the chosen university has a Vanier CGS quota and get nominated by the institution.
- Start the ResearchNet application form and ensure all the requirements are met.
- Applications can be filled out in English or French.
- Attach all required documents in the correct format and double-check the application.
- Submit the application to the nominating university before their internal deadline.
- The university will forward the nomination to the Vanier Secretariat.
- Only one university can nominate a student. If multiple universities want to nominate the same person, only one nomination will be accepted.
- If selected, the applicant will receive an email confirmation and notification on ResearchNet.
- The applicant must stay in contact with the university for updates on the application and selection process.
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