How to Apply for Canada Graduate Scholarships Master’s Program 2025

For Canadian master’s students, securing funding can make all the difference in pursuing graduate studies without financial stress. The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s Program (CGS-M) is one of the most prestigious awards available, providing $17,500 for one year to support high-caliber scholars.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the CGS-M, including:

What is the CGS-M Scholarship?
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Selection Criteria & Evaluation
Tips for a Winning Application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Alternative Funding Options

By the end, you’ll understand exactly how to submit a competitive application for this valuable scholarship.

1. What is the CGS-M Scholarship?

Overview

Administered by: CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC (Canada’s federal research agencies)
Award Value: $17,500 for 12 months (non-renewable)
Number of Awards: Approximately 3,000 granted annually
Purpose: To support outstanding Canadian master’s students in research-based programs

Key Benefits

Financial support during graduate studies
Prestige to boost academic and career opportunities
Flexibility (can be held at any eligible Canadian university)

Who Can Apply?

Canadian citizens or permanent residents
Students enrolled (or planning to enroll) in a full-time master’s or combined master’s/PhD program
Applicants must be pursuing research-based (not course-based) degrees

2. Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the CGS-M, you must meet the following criteria:

A. Academic Eligibility

Must have completed no more than 12 months of full-time study in your current program by December 31 of the competition year
Must hold a minimum first-class average (A- or equivalent) in the last two years of study

B. Program & Institution Requirements

Must be enrolled in (or applying to) a research-based master’s program at an eligible Canadian university
Must be supervised by a faculty member engaged in research

C. Citizenship Status

Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents
International students are not eligible

D. Field of Study

The CGS-M is divided into three federal granting agencies:

Table of Contents

CIHR (Health research)
NSERC (Natural sciences, engineering)
SSHRC (Social sciences, humanities)

Note: You must apply through the agency that aligns with your research area.

3. Application Process (Step-by-Step)

The CGS-M is university-nominated, meaning you must apply through your institution.

Step 1: Check University Deadlines

Most universities have internal deadlines (October–December) before the national deadline (December 1).
Contact your graduate studies office for exact dates.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

You will need:

Research Proposal (1–2 pages)
Statement of Purpose (1 page)
Academic CV
Transcripts (from all post-secondary institutions)
Two Reference Letters (from professors or supervisors)

Step 3: Submit to Your University

Your department will review applications and select nominees.
If nominated, your university will submit your application to CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC.

Step 4: National Competition Deadline (December 1)

Nominated applications are reviewed at the federal level.

Step 5: Results Announcement (April)

Successful applicants are notified via email.

4. Selection Criteria & Evaluation

Applications are assessed based on three key areas:

A. Academic Excellence (50%)

Grades, awards, scholarships
Research experience (publications, conferences)

B. Research Potential (30%)

Originality and significance of proposed research
Feasibility of methodology

C. Leadership & Community Engagement (20%)

Volunteer work, mentoring, outreach
Contributions beyond academia

What Makes a Strong CGS-M Application?

Clear, well-structured research proposal
Strong academic record (A- average or higher)
Demonstrated leadership (e.g., mentoring, community service)

5. Tips for a Winning Application

A. Research Proposal Tips

Be specific – Clearly define your research question and methodology.
Highlight impact – Explain how your work contributes to your field.

Example of a Strong Opening:
*”My research on AI-assisted early autism detection could revolutionize pediatric diagnostics, reducing diagnosis delays by up to 50%.”*

B. Statement of Purpose Tips

Explain why you’re pursuing this research and how it aligns with your career goals.
Show passion and commitment to your field.

C. Reference Letters Tips

Choose referees who can speak to your research potential and academic strengths.
Provide them with a summary of your achievements to reference.

D. Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Vague research proposal (Be precise in objectives)
❌ Ignoring the leadership component (Even non-academic roles count)
❌ Missing internal deadlines (Universities have earlier cutoffs)

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply directly for the CGS-M?

No, you must be nominated by your university.

Q2: Can I hold other scholarships with CGS-M?

Yes, but you must disclose them—some may be adjusted.

Q3: Is the CGS-M renewable?

No, it’s a one-year award, but you can apply for other funding afterward.

Q4: Can I apply if I’m in a course-based master’s program?

No, the CGS-M is only for research-based programs.

Q5: How competitive is the CGS-M?

Very – only about 25% of applicants succeed.