What if your PhD was about something other than research and academics? What if it included world-class mentorship, leadership training, and the ability to enact real change?
That’s what the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarships are about—a life-altering experience with remarkable people, and the pursuit of an intellectual journey with a social purpose. Whether you’re a first year Ph.D. student, or you already have your research in full swing, this guide will show you everything you need to know to apply for one of Canada’s most prestigious scholarships.
Program Overview:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Provider | Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation |
| Degree Level | PhD (Humanities and Social Sciences) |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Funding Amount | Up to CAD $60,000 per year |
| Eligible Fields | Humanities and Social Sciences with public relevance |
| Number of Awards | Up to 16 per year |
| Location | Any Canadian university |
| Key Themes | Human Rights, Citizenship, Canada and the World, Natural Environment |
| Leadership Training | Yes, includes retreats, mentorship, and workshops |
Benefits:
These scholarships offer far more than financial assistance. They are about building engaged leaders ready to make a real-world impact.
Financial Freedom
- CAD $60,000 annually for three years:
- $40,000 living and tuition stipend
- $20,000 for research, travel, and engagement
- Covers everything from tuition to global conference travel
Professional Development
- Access to leadership programs including annual Institutes of Engaged Leadership
- Personalized mentorship with national and international experts
- Public speaking and policy engagement opportunities
Global Networking
- Join a high-impact network of scholars, mentors, and alumni
- Engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration and policy dialogue
- Be part of a community recognized across sectors
Research Amplification
- Support to disseminate your research globally
- Opportunity to influence public policy and drive meaningful change
- Enhanced visibility and prestige in academia and beyond
Eligibility Criteria:
Before you apply, ensure you meet the following conditions:
- PhD Discipline: Must be in humanities or social sciences with societal relevance
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a full-time PhD program at a Canadian university OR accepted to start by Fall
- Program Stage: First or second year of PhD studies
- Citizenship: Open to:
- Canadian citizens
- Permanent residents
- Foreign nationals
- Thematic Relevance: Research must align with one or more of the Foundation’s four themes:
- Human Rights and Dignity
- Responsible Citizenship
- Canada and the World
- People and Their Natural Environment
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- Updated academic CV
- Research proposal aligned with Foundation’s themes
- Personal statement focusing on leadership and public engagement
- Academic transcripts
- Three reference letters (academic and non-academic)
- Proof of current enrollment or admission offer from a Canadian institution
How to Apply:
- Register your email on the Foundation’s application portal.
- Fill in your basic demographic information.
- Answer the essay questions provided for the current scholarship cycle.
- Explain your PhD research project in a way that connects with real-world challenges.
- Provide your educational background including prior degrees.
- Describe your achievements, including academic and extracurricular.
- List scholarships, publications, awards, and volunteer work.
- Include your relevant work experience.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Review and submit your application before the deadline.
Application Timeline:
| Step | Timeline (Estimated) |
| Application Portal Opens | September |
| Application Deadline | December |
| Shortlisting & Interviews | March |
| Final Selection & Announcement | May |
Personal Insights & Tips:
Make It Personal: Show the real person behind the research. Let your values and personal story shine through your application.
Focus on Public Impact: The Trudeau Foundation values public engagement. Emphasize how your research will contribute to the greater good.
Prepare Early: Gather documents and start drafting your essays well in advance. Don’t rush the personal statement—it matters.
Ask for Feedback: Have mentors, peers, or past applicants review your submission. Constructive criticism improves clarity.
Connect with the Community: Reach out to current or former Trudeau Scholars via LinkedIn or academic networks. Their insights can be game-changing.