usa The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Master’s Program (CGRS-M) 2026 is one of the most prestigious graduate scholarships offered by the Government of Canada to empower the next generation of researchers. Administered by CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC, this funded scholarship provides students with an opportunity to conduct high-level research in Canada across disciplines in natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and health sciences. With funding of $27,000 for one year, it supports over 3,298 students annually. Beyond financial support, the fellowship cultivates research creativity, skills development, and academic excellence while promoting inclusivity through dedicated awards for Indigenous and Black student researchers.

This scholarship is an outstanding opportunity for students aiming to make meaningful contributions to Canada’s research ecosystem while pursuing their master’s or doctoral pathways.

About the Government of Canada’s Research Councils

The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (CGRS-M) is a joint initiative of Canada’s three major research granting agencies:
• CIHR (Canadian Institutes of Health Research) – advancing health-related research and innovations.
• NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada) – supporting STEM innovation and training.
• SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada) – fostering insights into human, cultural, and social development.

Together, these agencies are globally recognized for promoting world-class research, supporting academic talent, and driving Canada’s leadership in innovation.

For institutional allocations and quotas by university, check the official list here: CGRS Allocations by Institution and Agency.

Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 Overview Table

Feature	Details
Scholarship Name	Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Master’s Program (CGRS-M) 2026
Host Country	Canada
Administering Agencies	CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC
Degree Level	Master’s (and select doctoral pathways)
Number of Awards	Approx. 3,298 annually
Value	CAD $27,000 (12 months, non-renewable)
Eligibility	Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and Protected Persons
Deadline	December 1, 2025

Scholarship Benefits

Awardees of the CGRS-M 2026 receive comprehensive financial and academic support:

• CAD $27,000 for a 12-month period (non-renewable).
• Supports tuition, living expenses, and research-related costs.
• Eligible Indigenous students may receive an additional supplement of $5,000.
• Black student researchers may be considered for additional dedicated funding through reserved awards.
• Access to Canada’s research ecosystem, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• Recognition as a Government of Canada-supported scholar, adding value to future academic and professional pursuits.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Citizenship/Residency
   • Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
2. Program Enrollment
   • Must be enrolled in or applying for full-time admission to an eligible graduate program (master’s or select doctoral pathways) at a Canadian institution with CGRS-M allocations.
3. Academic Progress
   • Applicants should have completed 0–12 months of full-time studies in their graduate program as of December 31, 2025.
   • Eligible programs include:
   1. Master’s program.
   2. Direct-entry doctoral program (from bachelor’s).
   3. Combined master’s-doctoral program.
   4. Fast-track master’s-to-doctoral program.
   5. Transition master’s-to-doctoral program with award continuation.
4. Research Orientation
   • The graduate program must be predominantly research-oriented (thesis, dissertation, publication, recital, or exhibition).
5. Special Provisions
   • Indigenous and Black students benefit from dedicated funding streams to increase inclusivity in Canadian research.

Application Process

Applicants must apply online through the official Research Portal. The process involves 11 structured steps:

• Create an application.
• Complete application overview.
• Fill in activity details.
• Upload outline of proposed research.
• Attach transcripts.
• Complete Canadian Common CV.
• Provide reference assessments.
• Verify completeness of the application.
• Extract the final application.
• Submit before the deadline.
• Accept terms and conditions.

Deadline: December 1, 2025, before 8:00 pm ET. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Comparison of CGRS vs. Other Canadian Scholarships

Scholarship	Funding	Eligibility	Duration	Special Features
CGRS-M 2026	$27,000 (12 months)	Canadian citizens, PRs, Protected Persons	1 year	Indigenous & Black student supplements
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	$50,000/year	Doctoral students only	3 years	Focus on leadership & global impact
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	$15,000/year	Master’s & PhD students	1 year (renewable)	Province-specific funding
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship	$70,000/year	Postdoctoral researchers	2 years	High-level global postdoctoral program

FAQs About Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026

1. Who can apply for the CGRS-M 2026?
   Only Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or Protected Persons are eligible.
2. Can international students apply?
   No, the CGRS-M 2026 is only for domestic students.
3. What is the value of the scholarship?
   $27,000 for a 12-month, non-renewable term.
4. Can I apply for both CGRS-M and Vanier Scholarships?
   Yes, if eligible, but you can only hold one award at a time.
5. Is the CGRS-M 2026 renewable?
   No, it is a one-year award.
6. Can Indigenous students apply?
   Yes, and successful applicants may receive an additional $5,000 supplement.
7. Are part-time students eligible?
   No, the program requires full-time enrollment.
8. Can I submit applications to multiple universities?
   Yes, you may apply to up to three institutions via the Research Portal.
9. When will results be announced?
   Results are posted in the Research Portal starting April 1, 2026.
10. What are the evaluation criteria?
    • Academic excellence – 50%
    • Research potential – 30%
    • Personal characteristics/interpersonal skills – 20%

Important Notes for Applicants

• Ensure you meet institutional internal deadlines, which may precede the December 1 deadline.
• Contact the graduate studies office of your chosen university for allocation details.
• For allocations per institution, visit: CGRS Allocation List.
• Applications must be complete at submission — missing documents will result in disqualification.
• Offers of alternate awards may continue until January 31, 2027.

If you are an aspiring researcher looking to advance your academic journey in Canada, the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Master’s Program 2026 is your gateway to excellence. With generous funding, inclusivity initiatives, and access to Canada’s world-class research institutions, this scholarship provides the foundation for a meaningful research career. Begin your journey today by preparing your documents and applying through the official portal. APPLY NOW.

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