For aspiring doctoral candidates aiming to pursue their studies in Canada, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (CGS) Program offers an exceptional and fully funded opportunity. Established to attract and retain world-class doctoral students, the Vanier CGS program enhances Canada’s ability to compete globally in research and higher education.
About the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship Program
Launched in 2008, the Vanier CGS program is administered by Canada’s three federal granting agencies: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).
The scholarship is named after Major-General Georges P. Vanier, the first francophone Governor General of Canada, and is considered one of the most prestigious graduate awards in the country.
Scholarship Value and Duration
The Vanier CGS is valued at $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies. This substantial funding allows scholars to focus on their research and leadership activities without financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a Vanier CGS, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be nominated by only one Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota
- Be pursuing their first doctoral degree (including joint graduate research programs)
- Intend to pursue full-time doctoral studies and research at the nominating institution in the summer semester or the academic year following the announcement of results
- Have completed no more than 20 months of doctoral studies as of May 1, 2025
- Have achieved a first-class average (usually a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0) in each of the last two years of full-time study or equivalent
Candidates from all nationalities, including Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and foreign citizens, are eligible to apply.
Selection Criteria
Vanier scholars are selected based on three equally weighted criteria:
- Academic Excellence
- Research Potential
- Leadership (potential and demonstrated ability)
Areas of Research
The Vanier CGS program supports doctoral students in the following areas of research:
- Health research
- Natural sciences and/or engineering research
- Social sciences and humanities research
How to Apply
Candidates must be nominated by a Canadian institution with a Vanier CGS quota. The application process involves the following steps:
- Contact the institution where you wish to pursue your doctoral studies to inquire about their internal deadline and nomination process.
- Create a Canadian Common CV (CCV) using the Vanier-Banting Academic template and link it to your ResearchNet application.
- Complete and submit the online application through ResearchNet by the institution’s internal deadline.
- If nominated by the institution, your application will be forwarded to the Vanier CGS program by the external deadline of October 30, 2024.
For detailed instructions on the application process, visit the official Vanier CGS website.
Timeline for 2024-2025 Competition
- July 2024: Anticipated launch of the 2024-2025 competition
- Institution internal deadline: Varies by institution; contact the nominating institution for specific date
- October 30, 2024 (20:00 EDT): Deadline for institutions to submit nominations to the Vanier CGS program
- Early April 2025: Anticipated notification of results
Supporting Indigenous Applicants
The Vanier CGS program encourages Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) applicants to apply. Institutions may nominate self-identified Indigenous applicants in addition to their regular quota. Applicants who wish to self-identify as Indigenous can complete the Vanier CGS Voluntary Self-Identification Form for Indigenous Applicants and upload it with their application.
Conclusion
The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship program provides an exceptional opportunity for outstanding doctoral students to pursue their research at Canadian institutions. With its significant funding, prestigious reputation, and focus on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership, the Vanier CGS is a highly sought-after award.
If you are a talented doctoral student with a passion for research and leadership, we encourage you to explore the Vanier CGS program and apply now through your chosen Canadian institution.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join the ranks of Vanier scholars and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and innovation in Canada.
For more information on the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship program, visit the official website or contact the graduate studies office at your prospective Canadian institution.
Start your journey towards excellence in doctoral research with the Vanier CGS today!
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