CGRS Doctoral program
The Canada Graduate Research Scholarship - Doctoral (CGRS-D) is a prestigious national award within the Canada Research Training Awards Suite (CRTAS) jointly administered by Canada’s three major research grant agencies (CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC).
These agencies fund top doctoral students through national competitions across a wide range of research areas, including health sciences, natural sciences and engineering, and social sciences and humanities. Interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research is encouraged.
The CGRS-D program supports research excellence by providing funding that allows students to focus on their doctoral studies, work with leading supervisors, and contribute to Canada’s research community.
Note: The CGRS-D program replaces previous federal doctoral funding programs, including Vanier CGS and agency-specific doctoral scholarships.
Eligibility criteria
To apply, you must meet tri-agency eligibility requirements. Key criteria include:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, Protected Person, or an international student registered in a doctoral program at an eligible Canadian institution.
- Have completed no more than 36 months of full-time doctoral study (or equivalent) by December 31, 2026.
- Submit only one tri-agency doctoral application per academic year.
- Not currently hold a doctoral-level award from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC (with limited exceptions).
- Not hold a tenured or tenure-track academic position.
- Have submitted no more than three CGRS-D applications in total
Additional information:
- Up to 15% of awards per agency may be allocated to international students
- Eligibility is based on total months of full-time study, including summer terms
- Special rules apply for fast-track, joint, and combined degree programs
You should apply through the agency that best aligns with your research area. If you are not sure which agency best aligns with your research you should contact the agency directly via and email and retain the email response.
How to apply
- Complete your application through the appropriate agency system:
- CIHR: ResearchNet
- NSERC: NSERC Online System
- SSHRC: SSHRC Online System
- Submit your application through Memorial University
- The School of Graduate Studies reviews applications for eligibility and academic merit.
- Top applicants are ranked and nominated by institutional committees.
Be sure to notify your graduate unit once you have submitted your application.
Transcript requirements
You must upload:
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- A current Fall 2026 transcript (even if grades are not yet available) – please note you need to request after the first day of classes September 9th 2026 to ensure your Fall registration appears on your official transcript
Important:
- Documents must be complete, legible, and up to date
- Official e-transcripts must have encryption removed before upload
- Unofficial transcripts are accepted if they clearly display your name and institution
Submitting transcripts confirms that your academic record is accurate and complete.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion
Indigenous Applicants:
First Nations, Inuit, and Métis applicants are encouraged to self-identify. Memorial may nominate additional Indigenous applicants beyond standard quotas.
Black Student Researchers:
Additional funding is available to support Black doctoral researchers. Eligible applicants who self-identify and consent may be considered.
Selection process
School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Review:
- Applications are screened for eligibility
- Eligible applications are evaluated and top candidates move forward
Institutional Review:
- Applications are reviewed by internal CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC committees
- Rankings determine nominations to the national competition
National Competition:
- Final funding decisions are made by CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC.
Results and notifications
- SGS will inform nominees by late November 2026
- Final results will be released by the tri-agency in April 2027
Resources
- FAQs 2026
- Proposal writing guidelines
- Transcripts information
If you’re planning to apply, start early and connect with your supervisor or Graduate Officer for guidance throughout the process.
If you have any questions about applying for a CGRS D Doctoral Fellowship, or would like any clarification on the information provided above, please contact our Scholarships Officer, Tammy Power-Taylor (gradawards@mun.ca).