Are you planning to study in Canada and looking for fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students 2026? The Government of Canada has officially launched the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship (CGRS) 2026, offering $40,000 per year to international PhD students, including those from Pakistan. This golden opportunity ensures that talented students can focus on their research without worrying about financial burdens.
What is the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026?
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship is a prestigious program that provides financial support to doctoral students. It is closely aligned with the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, both aimed at promoting research excellence in Canada.
This program is not just about covering tuition; it also funds living expenses, research costs, and other essentials so that students can fully dedicate themselves to academic excellence.
Scholarship Benefits: What You Will Receive
The biggest advantage of this program is its generous funding. Selected scholars will receive:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Amount | CAD $40,000 annually |
| Duration | Up to 3 years |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, research expenses, and living costs |
| Eligibility | Open to Canadian and international students (including Pakistan) |
This makes it one of the best fully funded scholarships in Canada for international students 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the PhD scholarships in Canada for international students, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be admitted into a recognized PhD program at a Canadian university.
- Not have completed more than 36 months of doctoral studies by December 31, 2025.
- Be enrolled in a program that includes a strong research component (such as MD/PhD or MA/PhD).
- Open to both domestic and international students, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other countries.
How to Apply for the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026
The application process is simple but requires attention to detail:
- Apply through your university – Submit your application to the Canadian university where you are currently studying or planning to enroll.
- Check internal deadlines – Each university may set its own deadline earlier than the government deadline.
- Final deadline – The official deadline is October 17, 2025.
- Prepare documents early – Academic transcripts, research proposals, and references are required.
Purpose and Vision of the Scholarship
The aim of this Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 is not just financial aid, but also:
- To promote research excellence in Canada.
- To attract talented international students.
- To strengthen Canada’s role in global academic innovation.
- To build a community of researchers who can contribute to science, technology, and society.
Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada – Other Options
Apart from this program, international students can explore:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – CAD $50,000 per year.
- Fully funded scholarships in Canada for undergraduates – Some universities like University of Toronto and University of British Columbia offer entrance scholarships.
- Fully funded scholarships in Canada for Masters – Options include Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarships.
Which Universities in Canada Give Full Scholarships?
Several Canadian universities are popular for offering full or partial scholarships to international students:
- University of Toronto – Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship.
- McGill University – Graduate Excellence Scholarships.
- University of British Columbia (UBC) – International Scholars Program.
- University of Alberta – Graduate Research Scholarships.
These universities make Canada one of the best destinations for international students looking for undergraduate scholarships in Canada, Masters scholarships, and PhD opportunities.
Why Pakistani Students Should Apply
For students from Pakistan, Canada offers:
- A safe and welcoming environment.
- World-class research facilities.
- Post-graduate work opportunities after completing studies.
- A chance to contribute to global research while living in a multicultural society.
This makes it an ideal destination for Pakistani students looking for fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada.
Key Deadlines and Next Steps
- Application Starts: Mid-2025
- University Internal Deadlines: Varies by institution
- Government Final Deadline: October 17, 2025
- Funding Start Date: 2026 academic year
FAQs
1. Is the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, research expenses, and living costs up to CAD $40,000 per year for three years.
2. Who can apply for this scholarship?
Both Canadian citizens and international students, including students from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and other countries.
3. Can undergraduate or Master’s students apply?
This specific program is for PhD students. However, there are fully funded scholarships in Canada for undergraduates and Masters students offered by universities.
4. Which Canadian universities provide full scholarships?
Top universities like University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and University of Alberta provide full or partial scholarships.
5. What is the deadline to apply?
The final deadline is October 17, 2025, but students must also follow their university’s internal deadlines.
Conclusion
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for ambitious international students. With $40,000 annual funding, it allows scholars to pursue research, innovation, and academic success without financial worries.
If you dream of completing your PhD in Canada, now is the time to prepare your application, contact your university, and aim for this fully funded scholarship in Canada for international students 2026.
