Canada is globally recognized for its high-quality education system, cutting-edge research institutions, and welcoming atmosphere for international students. In 2025, PhD scholarships in Canada with monthly stipends provide outstanding opportunities for both domestic and international students to pursue their doctoral degrees without the heavy burden of tuition fees and living costs.
In this guide, we highlight the best fully funded PhD scholarships in Canada that offer a monthly stipend, tuition coverage, and additional research support. These scholarships are ideal for ambitious scholars looking to advance their academic careers in one of the world's most research-intensive countries.
Why Choose Canada for a PhD?
Canada is a top destination for doctoral studies due to:
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World-class universities like University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, and University of Alberta
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Multicultural society and post-graduation immigration options
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Fully funded PhD programs with monthly financial support
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Focus on interdisciplinary and high-impact research
Whether you’re interested in data science, health sciences, engineering, or social innovation, Canada offers exceptional doctoral opportunities supported by generous scholarships.
Best PhD Scholarships in Canada with Monthly Stipend (2025)
Below are top scholarships in Canada that offer monthly stipends, tuition waivers, and other essential benefits:
1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS)
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Stipend: $50,000 CAD per year (for 3 years)
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Coverage: Tuition, living expenses, and research support
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Eligibility:
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Open to Canadian and international PhD candidates
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Excellent academic record, leadership, and research potential
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Universities: Participating universities across Canada
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Fields: Health sciences, natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities
2. University of Toronto – School of Graduate Studies Funding Package
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Stipend: $20,000–$32,000 CAD/year (varies by department)
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Coverage: Full tuition, stipend, and research/travel allowances
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Eligibility: Automatic consideration upon PhD admission
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Bonus: Additional funding available for conference travel and publications
3. University of British Columbia (UBC) – Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
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Stipend: $18,200 CAD/year + full tuition coverage
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Duration: Up to 4 years
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Eligibility:
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Top-ranking applicants in any UBC PhD program
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Open to international and domestic students
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Fields: All doctoral programs at UBC
4. University of Alberta Graduate Funding
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Stipend: $18,000–$30,000 CAD/year (depends on program)
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Coverage: Full tuition + benefits (health, dental)
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Options:
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Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)
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Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)
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External scholarships (Vanier, Killam, NSERC)
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Eligibility: All admitted PhD students are considered
5. McGill University – Tomlinson Doctoral Fellowships
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Stipend: $35,000 CAD/year
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Duration: 3 years
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Coverage: Full tuition support + academic bonuses
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Eligibility: Open to international and Canadian doctoral candidates
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Bonus: Priority for students in science and engineering fields
6. University of Waterloo – International Doctoral Student Award
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Stipend: $15,000–$25,000 CAD/year (combined with TA/RA positions)
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Additional Aid:
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International Doctoral Student Award ($5,040/year)
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President’s Graduate Scholarship ($5,000–$10,000)
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Eligibility: All full-time international PhD students
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Fields: Engineering, computer science, environment, business, and more
7. SSHRC Doctoral Fellowships (Canada-wide)
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Offered by: Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
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Stipend: $20,000 CAD/year (up to 4 years)
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Fields: Humanities, social sciences, education, political science, law
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Eligibility: Canadian citizens and permanent residents
What Does the Monthly Stipend Cover?
A PhD stipend in Canada is designed to cover:
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Accommodation (on-campus or private housing)
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Food and groceries
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Books and academic supplies
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Local transportation
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Basic medical insurance
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Internet and phone expenses
Depending on the location and lifestyle, $18,000–$35,000 CAD/year is generally sufficient for comfortable student living.
How to Apply for PhD Scholarships in Canada (2025)
1. Choose Your Program and University
Start by identifying Canadian universities offering PhD programs in your area of interest.
2. Prepare Application Materials
You will need:
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CV and academic transcripts
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Letters of recommendation
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Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal
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Language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL if applicable)
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Portfolio or published research (if required)
3. Apply for Admission and Funding Together
Many Canadian PhD programs automatically consider applicants for funding upon admission.
4. Apply for External Scholarships (Optional)
You can apply to national-level scholarships like Vanier CGS or NSERC separately.
💬 FAQs – PhD Funding in Canada
❓ Is a PhD in Canada fully funded?
Yes, most research-intensive universities in Canada offer fully funded PhD programs, often combining university scholarships with external fellowships.
❓ Do international students receive the same stipend?
Yes, international students are eligible for the same or similar funding packages as Canadian citizens at most institutions.
❓ Can I work while doing a PhD in Canada?
Yes. International PhD students can work up to 20 hours/week during the semester and full-time during scheduled breaks.
❓ What is the duration of a PhD in Canada?
A typical PhD in Canada takes 4–6 years to complete, depending on the field and research scope.
Pursuing a PhD in Canada in 2025 can be an affordable and rewarding journey, thanks to the abundance of fully funded PhD scholarships with monthly stipends. Whether you're in science, technology, humanities, or social science, Canadian universities are offering world-class training, financial support, and career development resources.
Take the next step by researching your preferred institutions, preparing a strong application, and applying early to increase your chances of success.