Call for Applications: Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship 2026) Deadline: 17 November, 2025

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral awards. It supports exceptional PhD students in the humanities and social sciences who are committed to leadership, public engagement, and research that addresses major societal challenges.

The program combines financial support with mentorship, leadership training, and opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue across disciplines.

Now, let’s apply for the Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship. Follow the step-by-step guide of Scholarships Edge to learn about benefits, eligibility, required documents and how to apply.

Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship Details

Benefits of the Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship 2026

• Financial Support: Up to $50,000 CAD per year for three years (covers tuition and living expenses).
• Research & Travel Allowance: Up to $20,000 CAD per year for research, fieldwork, travel, networking, and language learning.
• Leadership Development: A three-year program designed to strengthen leadership skills and foster public engagement.
• Networking: Membership in a community of scholars, mentors, and fellows, including opportunities for national and international collaborations.

Eligibility Criteria for theTrudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship

To apply, you must:

• Be enrolled full-time in the first or second year of a PhD program (or entering it) in Fall 2026.
• Be conducting research in the humanities or social sciences (broadly defined).
• Have a doctoral project that relates to at least one of the Foundation’s four themes:
  • Human Rights and Dignity
  • Responsible Citizenship
  • Canada and the World
  • People and Their Natural Environment
• Citizenship/Residency:
  • Canadian citizens (studying in Canada or abroad), or
  • International students are enrolled in a Canadian university.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance, proven leadership qualities, and active engagement with society.

Required Documents for the Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship

Applicants typically need to provide:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Academic transcripts for all university studies
3. Research proposal describing the PhD project and its societal relevance
4. Personal statement highlighting leadership, community involvement, and fit with the program’s themes
5. Letters of recommendation (including at least one non-academic referee to speak about leadership and engagement)
6. Enrollment or admission letter from your PhD institution

How to Apply for the Trudeau Foundation PhD Scholarship

1. Check eligibility: Confirm you meet the program, field, and citizenship requirements.
2. Prepare documents: Collect transcripts, CV, research proposal, statements, and references.
3. Register online: Create an account on the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation’s application portal (open in September 2025).
4. Complete application form: Upload all required materials before the deadline (November 17, 2025, for the 2026 competition).
5. Institutional endorsement: Some Canadian universities may preselect candidates. Check with your university’s graduate studies office.
6. Selection process: Applications are reviewed, and shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
7. Final decision: Selected scholars will be announced in Spring 2026.