Applications open for Doctoral Scholarship Competition in Canada
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The Fondation Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation is requesting applications for its Doctoral Scholarship Competition to bring together remarkable individuals from various disciplines and backgrounds with a shared interest in making Canada and the world a better place into a life-changing community.
Academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, Commitment and openness to engaging with a plurality of perspectives, Leadership and engagement, Participation in Foundation community events, Human Rights and Dignity, Responsible Citizenship, Canada and the World, People and their Natural Environment.
The scholarship is designed for students pursuing doctoral studies in fields broadly related to the humanities and social sciences or human sciences with research that is directly relevant to the future of Canada. Eligible applicants include Canadian students studying at Canadian or international universities, as well as international students pursuing their education at Canadian institutions. However, students living outside Canada and enrolled at international universities are not eligible. Applicants must be in the first or second year of their doctoral program at the time of application, and candidates in the final year of their master’s degree are not eligible for the 2026 competition.
The Foundation seeks scholars who embody strong academic performance, originality in thought, and dedication to research dissemination. Scholars are expected to collaborate across diverse cultures, ideologies, and perspectives while demonstrating leadership within and beyond academia. A strong commitment to active participation in Foundation events such as seminars, conferences, and masterclasses is also essential. Members are encouraged to strengthen their capacities in both official languages, act authentically and with integrity, and learn from peers, Fellows, and Mentors within the community.
The scholarship program extends over three years, offering an annual stipend of up to $50,000 to support tuition and living expenses. In addition, each scholar receives an annual allowance of up to $20,000 to facilitate research, networking, and travel connected to their doctoral project and Foundation programming. Regardless of other funding sources, all scholars receive a minimum of $25,000 from the annual stipend along with the full research allowance. Beyond financial support, scholars become part of a dynamic community of peers, Fellows, and Mentors and gain lifelong membership in the Foundation’s alumni network of more than 500 individuals.
Applications must be submitted directly through the Foundation’s platform by the deadline, and applicants will receive confirmation upon successful submission. Candidates advancing to the next round will be notified during the week of January 26, 2026, and will then provide additional documents for the following stages. Those invited to the individual interview stage will be informed on February 20, 2026. All interviews will be conducted in person in French or English, based on the applicant’s preference. Application closes on 12 November 2025.
