Canada Graduate Scholarships from NSERC

The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s 2025 (CGS M) program is a prestigious initiative designed to enhance research skills and support the training of highly qualified individuals in Canada. Offering financial support of $17,500 for a 12-month period, this non-renewable scholarship is aimed at students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance during their undergraduate and early graduate studies.

The program is jointly administered by Canada’s three major granting agencies: the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). The primary goal of the CGS M program is to provide the necessary funding that allows scholars to dedicate their time and energy to their academic pursuits and research endeavors, thereby fostering a new generation of skilled researchers.

Applications are evaluated based on academic achievements, research potential and personal qualities, with a strong emphasis on equity, diversity and inclusion in the selection process. Results will be available starting April 1, 2025, allowing applicants to track their status and receive alternate offers if applicable. Through its commitment to supporting diverse scholars and fostering research excellence, the CGS M program plays a crucial role in enhancing Canada’s academic and research landscape.

Objective of the CGS M Program

The principal aim of the CGS M program is to contribute to the development of research skills among students and assist in the training of personnel by offering financial support to those who have shown high levels of achievement in their academic work. By providing this financial support, the program allows scholars to dedicate more time to their research and academic studies within their respective fields of expertise.

This detailed overview of the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program is designed to offer potential applicants the necessary information about the program’s objectives, eligibility requirements, the application process, the selection criteria and the role of equity and diversity in the Canadian research community.

About NSERC

The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) is a federal body that promotes university-based research and innovation in natural sciences and engineering disciplines. NSERC offers funding for various research projects, academic partnerships and scholarships aimed at nurturing highly qualified individuals and reinforcing Canada’s global leadership in science and technology. By fostering partnerships between academia, industry and the government, NSERC is committed to driving scientific discoveries, promoting innovation and contributing to the economic and social well-being of Canada.

Degree Level

The NSERC Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program 2025 is specifically designed for students seeking to pursue a Master’s level program at Canadian universities.

Available Subjects

The CGS M program covers all fields of study available under the auspices of Canada’s universities. The flexibility in subject choice allows students from diverse academic backgrounds to apply and benefit from the scholarship, making it an inclusive and wide-reaching initiative.

Scholarship Benefits

The financial support provided by the CGS M scholarship amounts to $17,500 for a 12-month period. This scholarship is non-renewable, meaning it cannot be extended beyond this one-year term.

Eligible Nationalities

The CGS M scholarship is open exclusively to Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Protected Persons as defined under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. International students are not eligible to apply for this program.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s 2025 (CGS M) program, applicants must meet several important criteria:

1. Citizenship: Applicants must be either Canadian citizens, permanent residents or recognized as Protected Persons under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act by the time of the application deadline.
2. Enrollment: The applicant must either be enrolled in, have applied to or plan to apply for full-time admission to an eligible graduate program at either the master’s or doctoral level. The program must be based at a Canadian institution that has been allocated CGS M funding and it must be set to begin within the eligible dates of the competition year.
3. Academic Progress: By December 31 of the application year, the applicant must have completed between 0 and 12 months of full-time graduate studies (or the equivalent in part-time studies) in the program for which the CGS M funding is being sought.
4. Previous Scholarships: Candidates should not have previously held or currently hold, a CGS M scholarship funded by NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC.
5. Academic Excellence: Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic record, defined by achieving a first-class average (as determined by the host institution) in each of the last two years of completed studies.

Application Procedure

The application process for the CGS M program involves the following steps:

1. Research Portal: Applicants must either create or access an existing account on the Research Portal, which is used to submit applications for the CGS M program.
2. Canadian Common CV: In addition to completing the online application, applicants must also prepare a Canadian Common CV, which is an essential part of the application process. The Common CV can be created by logging into the relevant website.
3. Submission Deadline: All applications, along with the required documents, must be submitted through the Research Portal by December 1, 2024. Late submissions are not accepted, so applicants must ensure all materials are uploaded and finalized before the deadline.

Selection Process and Criteria

The selection process for the CGS M program is overseen by the faculty of graduate studies (or its equivalent) at the applicant’s host institution. Applications are assessed based on the following three main criteria:

1. Academic Excellence (50%): This criterion is based on the academic performance of the applicant, which includes factors such as academic records, previous scholarships and awards, the type of program and courses taken and the applicant’s relative standing in their academic cohort.
2. Research Potential (30%): The applicant’s research potential is evaluated through the quality and originality of their contributions to research, the relevance of their work experience and the significance of their proposed research project.
3. Personal Characteristics and Interpersonal Skills (20%): This criterion takes into account the applicant’s personal and interpersonal skills, which can be demonstrated through past professional and extracurricular experiences. Leadership roles, involvement in scientific communication and teamwork skills are considered under this criterion.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)

A significant focus of the CGS M program is promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within the selection process. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering a diverse range of scholars, particularly those from underrepresented groups in Canadian research. For instance, additional funding is allocated to increase direct support for Black student researchers. Applicants who self-identify as Black and consent to be considered for specific EDI-related funding may receive additional support if selected.

The program’s commitment to EDI aims to create a more inclusive and representative research environment in Canada, ensuring that individuals from diverse backgrounds have equitable access to opportunities.

Notification of Results

The results of the CGS M program selection process will be made available on the Research Portal starting on April 1, 2025. It is important for applicants to regularly check the portal for updates regarding the status of their application, as alternate offers may continue to be made up until January 31 of the following year.

In summary, the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s 2025 (CGS M) program is a prestigious and competitive initiative that offers substantial financial support to Canadian graduate students. It aims to nurture the next generation of highly skilled researchers in various fields by easing the financial burden on students and allowing them to focus more on their academic and research work. Administered by NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC, the program also emphasizes the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion in Canadian research, ensuring that scholars from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to contribute to the nation’s academic and research excellence.

Further Insights into NSERC and Partner Agencies

Beyond the CGS M program, NSERC plays a vital role in supporting Canada’s research landscape. Together with CIHR and SSHRC, these agencies provide the framework for funding in a variety of research disciplines, spanning the natural sciences, engineering, health, social sciences and humanities. This collaborative approach ensures that Canadian researchers have access to the resources they need to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.

SSHRC supports research in the social sciences and humanities, funding projects that seek to understand and address complex societal issues. From exploring cultural dynamics to analyzing public policy, SSHRC-funded research plays a key role in shaping Canada’s social and cultural development.

APPLY NOW

The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s 2025 (CGS M) program provides exceptional opportunities for graduate students across a broad range of disciplines in Canada. By offering substantial financial support and emphasizing the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion, the program aims to cultivate a diverse and highly qualified pool of researchers. Administered by NSERC, CIHR and SSHRC, the CGS M program stands as a pillar in Canada’s efforts to foster research excellence and innovation, thereby contributing to the nation’s social, cultural and economic prosperity.

Potential applicants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the eligibility criteria, application procedures and selection processes well in advance of the deadline to ensure a successful submission. The program not only provides significant financial aid but also serves as a platform for shaping the future of research in Canada by supporting the training and development of the country’s next generation of academic and research leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the CGS M program?

To apply, you need to create or access an account on the Research Portal, complete a Canadian Common CV and submit your application along with any required documents by the deadline of December 1, 2024.

What is the selection process for the CGS M program?

Applications are evaluated by the faculty of graduate studies at each institution based on three criteria: academic excellence (50%), research potential (30%) and personal characteristics and interpersonal skills (20%).

Is the CGS M scholarship renewable?

No, the CGS M scholarship is non-renewable. It provides funding for a single 12-month period, after which recipients cannot reapply for the same scholarship.

What types of subjects are eligible for funding under the CGS M program?

The CGS M program is open to students in all subjects offered at eligible Canadian universities, allowing for a diverse range of research fields.

How does the CGS M program promote equity, diversity and inclusion?

The program emphasizes equity, diversity and inclusion in its selection process and allocates additional funds to support underrepresented groups, including Black student researchers who self-identify and consent to be considered for specific funding.

When will applicants be notified about the results of their application?

Results will be announced on the Research Portal starting from April 1, 2025. Applicants should regularly check the portal for updates on their application status.

Can international students apply for the CGS M program?

No, the CGS M program is exclusively for Canadian citizens, permanent residents and Protected Persons. International students are not eligible to apply.