The Government of Canada has opened applications for the 2026 Canadian Government Scholarships, offering fully funded study and research exchanges at leading Canadian universities and colleges. Administered by Global Affairs Canada through EduCanada, these programs strengthen international collaboration, promote sustainable development, and provide exceptional academic and cultural experiences for students worldwide.
Overview
The 2026 Canadian Government Scholarships consist of three main streams:
• Study in Canada Scholarships: Open to students from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP): Designed for graduates from Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development – Phase 2 (SEED-2): Targeting ASEAN member states, Pacific Island countries, and Mongolia.
Each program supports short-term exchanges—typically four to six months—at the undergraduate, college, master’s, and PhD levels. Disciplines include engineering, computer science, health sciences, business, environmental studies, social sciences, and the humanities. By covering travel, living costs, health coverage, and visa fees, the scholarships allow participants to focus fully on academic excellence and cross-cultural engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following general requirements (specific streams may impose additional conditions):
• Citizenship of an eligible country or territory, depending on the chosen scholarship stream.
• Full-time enrollment at a post-secondary institution in the home country, with tuition maintained at the home institution during the exchange.
• Completion of all project activities by September 30, 2027.
• No simultaneous enrollment in a Canadian credential program or receipt of certain Canadian federal grants.
• Ability to obtain a study or research permit upon selection.
Graduate-level candidates should demonstrate prior research experience or strong academic merit. Undergraduate and college applicants need a solid academic record. Because Canadian institutions nominate candidates, early contact with a prospective host supervisor or department is essential.
Benefits
All three streams provide comprehensive funding to ensure a worry-free academic stay:
Study in Canada Scholarships
• CAD 10,200 for four months (college/undergraduate or graduate)
• CAD 14,000 for five to six months (graduate)
ELAP
• CAD 8,200 for four months (graduate)
• CAD 11,100 for five to six months (graduate)
SEED-2
• CAD 10,200 for a minimum of four months (graduate research)
• CAD 12,700 for five to six months (graduate research)
In addition to stipends, recipients receive airfare, health insurance, and visa fee coverage. Although tuition remains payable to the home institution, the generous allowances cover major living costs and grant access to Canada’s world-class research facilities and vibrant cultural environment.
How to Apply
The application process is institution-led: Canadian universities and colleges nominate and submit completed applications to Global Affairs Canada. Follow these steps:
1. Research Host Institutions: Identify Canadian universities or colleges with programs aligned to your field. Contact potential supervisors early to secure an invitation letter.
2. Prepare Your Application: Gather all required documents (see below) and liaise with your home institution’s international office if necessary.
3. Submit via Host Institution: Adhere to program-specific deadlines and ensure the host forwards your complete file to Global Affairs Canada.
4. Await Notification: Selected candidates are informed through their host institution. Funding is released upon arrival in Canada.
Note that start dates range from August 1, 2026, to February 1, 2027. Plan for initial expenses, as stipends are disbursed after your arrival.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated on:
• Academic excellence and research potential
• Leadership qualities and community engagement
• Alignment with sustainable development goals
• Contribution to diversity of disciplines and regions
• Benefits to both the student and their home institution
Required Documents
Ensure all materials are in English or French (with certified translations if necessary). A complete package typically includes:
• Proof of citizenship (passport copy)
• Letter of intent detailing study or research objectives
• Academic transcripts and proof of full-time enrollment
• Two or three academic reference letters
• Invitation or acceptance letter from the Canadian host supervisor or department
• Proof of tuition payment to the home institution
• Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
• (For research streams) Detailed research proposal or project description
Deadline
• Study in Canada Scholarships & ELAP: March 31, 2026
• SEED-2: March 24, 2026
These deadlines apply to Canadian host institutions. International applicants should confirm with their prospective host well in advance, as late submissions are not accepted.
Official Website
For full program details and application guidelines, visit EduCanada’s scholarship portal: https://www.educanada.ca/scholarships-bourses/non_can/index.aspx?lang=eng
Conclusion
The Government of Canada Scholarships 2026 represent a remarkable opportunity for international students to engage in high-impact research and study at renowned Canadian institutions. With comprehensive funding, global networking, and cultural immersion, these programs empower future leaders to drive positive change worldwide. Start your preparations today by connecting with potential hosts and assembling a strong application package. Good luck!
