The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship brings together outstanding people from different backgrounds who share a commitment to improving Canada and the world. This program is more than just financial support—it’s about building a unique community and growing future leaders.
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is one of Canada’s top awards for doctoral students. It supports brilliant students who want to tackle important social issues through research and leadership. Named after former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, the scholarship focuses on research in the social sciences and humanities, covering areas like human rights, social justice, responsible citizenship, and global issues. It aims to shape future leaders who not only excel in academics but also contribute actively to society.
The program seeks students who are curious about exploring critical questions, engaged in their communities, and eager to connect with scholars, academics, and professionals in various fields.
What the Scholarship Offers
This scholarship provides substantial financial aid for up to three years, covering tuition and living expenses so scholars can focus entirely on their studies and research. Beyond funding, the program offers a valuable leadership development component. Scholars are mentored by experienced professionals and leaders from different fields. They also participate in retreats, public discussions, and networking events with experts, which helps build leadership skills and prepares them for roles in academia, public policy, and community service.
The scholarship is unique because it encourages students to address real-world challenges through research that can lead to social change. Scholars work across various fields and turn their academic insights into practical solutions, influencing public policy and social outcomes.
Benefits of the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholars receive:
- Up to $50,000 per year for three years to cover tuition and living costs, plus an extra $20,000 yearly for research, travel, and networking.
- Membership in a vibrant community of Scholars, Mentors, and Fellows who are leaders in their fields.
- Leadership training through hands-on learning with Mentors and Fellows to enhance their academic experience.
- Opportunities to improve in Canada’s official languages (English and French) and Indigenous languages.
- Lifelong access to the Foundation’s alumni network.
Requirements for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship Program
To qualify for this scholarship, applicants need to meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled in or accepted into a full-time doctoral program, typically in the first or second year.
- Pursue a field of study related to the humanities, social sciences, or human sciences, relevant to Canada’s future.
- Focus on at least one of the Foundation’s key themes:
- Human Rights and Dignity
- Responsible Citizenship
- Canada and the World
- People and Their Natural Environment
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident enrolled in a Canadian or foreign institution, or an international student enrolled in a doctoral program at a Canadian institution.
Application Process and Timeline
Key Dates:
- September 9, 2024: Application period opens.
- November 20, 2024: Deadline for references.
- November 25, 2024 (4:00 p.m. EST): Application deadline.
- January 27, 2025: Notification of semi-finalists.
- February 10–12, 2025: Virtual group interviews.
- February 19, 2025: Finalists invited for individual interviews.
- March 10–12, 2025: Final interviews.
- May 2025: Announcement of the 2025 Scholars.
To apply, candidates should register on the Foundation’s application portal when the competition opens. If you applied previously, use your original email and select “Forgot password” to avoid creating a new account. Complete the registration and answer all questions to submit your application by November 25, 2024.
For more details, visit the official website.