Become a Scholar

Academic excellence 

Candidates are distinguished researchers in their field with a strong academic record, as evidenced by transcripts and other forms of academic achievement (e.g., publications, conference presentations).  

Research 

Research is well presented and original. Candidates demonstrate competence and expertise in their field of research. They are actively involved in a variety of initiatives and may have already shown commitment through a series of academic or non-academic publications, or equivalent creative projects. 

Commitment  

Candidates exhibit leadership qualities by initiating projects, adopting new approaches and mobilizing knowledge. Candidate demonstrate ingenuity and adaptability.  

Involvement 

Candidates display an interest in the Foundation's activities and events. Their research has the power to transcend the academic world and have a significant impact on society. 

Core values 

Candidates interact with diverse people and opinions in a respectful and balanced manner. There are open to learning, they remain positive and pragmatic and they are ready to get involved and offer help. They actively participate in discussions and debates in a civil and respectful manner. 

1) To be eligible, candidates must be:  

• a Canadian student studying at a Canadian university,

• a Canadian student studying at a foreign university, or

• a foreign student studying at a Canadian university. 

Note: Students living outside Canada and studying at an foreign university are not eligible.   

2) At the time of application, candidates must be: 

• in the first year of a doctoral program, or 

• in the second year of a doctoral program. 

Note: Candidates in their final year of a master's degree are no longer eligible for the 2026 Scholarship competition. 

3) Field of study and four themes  

Candidates' field of study is broadly related to the humanities and social sciences or human sciences and is directly relevant to the future of Canada.

Their doctoral work must relate to at least one of the Foundation's four major themes:  

• Human Rights and Dignity 

• Responsible Citizenship 

• Canada and the World 

• People and their Natural Environment 

The Foundation asks all applicants to apply directly via its application platform. The Foundation will review and assess all candidates who submit completed applications by the specified deadline.  

We sincerely thank participating universities for any publicity, advertising, and encouragement for student applications they provide to the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship.  Award officers are invited to join webinars/Q&As to learn more about our Scholarship program.