The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF) is a prestigious award offered to top master’s and doctoral students who have demonstrated superior academic excellence and research potential.
With over $2 million in funding available each year, the UMGF provides significant financial support to help students focus on their graduate studies and research.
Overview of the UMGF Program
The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship is awarded to full-time master’s and PhD students across all fields of study.
Key details of the fellowship include:
- Value:Â $14,000 per year for master’s students (up to 2 years) and $18,000 per year for doctoral students (up to 4 years)
- Duration:Â 12, 24, 36 or 48 months depending on program level and time already spent in the graduate program
- Eligibility:Â Minimum admission GPA of 3.0, must be enrolled full-time in an eligible graduate program, and show great promise as researchers
- Deadline:Â Varies by department, generally in March or April for the upcoming academic year
The total UMGF support for any one student is limited to 4 years, which includes any time spent in a master’s program before transferring to a PhD. During the award tenure, recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and cannot receive a grade lower than C+.
Why Apply for the UMGF?
Securing graduate funding is critical for many students to be able to fully dedicate themselves to their studies and research. The UMGF provides a generous stipend that helps cover living expenses and educational costs.
For master’s students, the fellowship provides up to $28,000 over 2 years, while doctoral students can receive up to $72,000 over 4 years.
This substantial funding allows students to focus on their academic pursuits without the stress and distraction of financial pressures. Additionally, being awarded the UMGF is a strong recognition of a student’s scholarly achievements and potential.
Recipients join a community of top graduate scholars at the University of Manitoba. The award can also serve as a springboard to securing other prestigious scholarships and grants.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Enrolled in or planning to enroll full-time in an eligible master’s or doctoral program at the University of ManitobaEligible programs are those that align with NSERC, SSHRC, or CIHR graduate student awards
- Professional programs like the MBA, MFin, and MSCM are not eligible
- Have a minimum admission GPA of 3.0 in their current graduate programSome departments may require a higher GPA cutoff
- Demonstrate strong potential and promise as graduate student researchers
- Be within the first 2 years of a master’s program or first 4 years of a doctoral program2 years of part-time study counts as 1 year of full-time study in determining eligibility
Students who have been admitted to an eligible UM graduate program but not yet started are encouraged to apply for the UMGF through their department.
Current UM graduate students must be continuing in their program to be eligible.
How to Apply
The UMGF application process is administered through individual UM departments and faculties, not the Faculty of Graduate Studies directly.
Each eligible department receives an allocation of fellowship funding and is responsible for selecting recipients from their pool of current and incoming graduate students.
Here are the key steps in the application process:
- Check with your department’s graduate program coordinator for the internal UMGF application deadline and procedures, usually in March or April
- Review the UMGF Award Holder’s Guide for full details on the regulations and expectations for award holders
- Complete any departmental application forms and submit all required documents before the deadlineRequirements vary by department but often include transcripts, reference letters, research proposals, etc.
- Departments review applications and nominate top-ranked recipients to the Faculty of Graduate Studies
- The Faculty of Graduate Studies verifies eligibility and sends official award letters to successful recipients
It is critical that students confirm the specific application instructions and deadlines with their graduate department, as each faculty and department may have their own criteria, forms, and procedures.
Tips for a Strong UMGF Application
Competition for the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship is strong, as departments aim to select the top students with the highest potential for research excellence.
To improve your chances of success, consider these tips:
- Start early. Preparing a high-quality application takes time. Begin gathering required documents and crafting your research proposal well in advance of the deadline.
- Know your audience. Tailor your application to your specific department and proposed area of research. Highlight how your background and goals align with the department’s strengths and priorities.
- Emphasize your research potential. The UMGF recognizes graduate students who show great promise as researchers. Clearly communicate your research interests, experience, and scholarly ambitions.
- Proofread and edit. Ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. Ask peers or mentors to review your materials and provide feedback.
- Secure strong references. Choose referees who can speak directly to your academic abilities and research potential. Provide them with ample time and information to write a compelling letter on your behalf.
By starting early, knowing your audience, emphasizing your research potential, polishing your materials, and securing excellent references, you will be well-positioned to submit a competitive UMGF application.
Next Steps for Award Recipients
If you are selected as a UMGF recipient, congratulations!
To accept the award, follow these steps:
- Watch for an official award letter via email from the Faculty of Graduate Studies
- Review the terms and conditions outlined in the Award Holder’s Guide
- Complete any required acceptance forms or paperwork
- Ensure you are enrolled full-time in your graduate program for the upcoming academic year
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress and adhere to award regulations throughout your tenure
As an award holder, you can focus on your graduate studies and research, making the most of this incredible opportunity.
The funding provided by the UMGF will support your educational and living expenses, freeing you to fully immerse yourself in your academic pursuits.
Apply Now for the 2024 University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
If you are a current or prospective graduate student at the University of Manitoba with an outstanding academic record and strong research potential, apply now for the 2024 UMGF competition.
This fully funded award provides generous financial support to help you achieve your scholarly goals and make important contributions to your field.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to join a prestigious community of graduate student leaders and researchers.
Contact your department’s graduate program coordinator today for application details and deadlines. Invest in your future and take your research to the next level with the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship.
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