Introduction
Have you ever dreamed of pursuing your PhD at a world-class institution while also being part of a vibrant community of leaders, academics, and change-makers? The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship offers exactly that opportunity.
This scholarship is about more than just financial support. It is about belonging to a diverse community of scholars, mentors, and practitioners who are passionate about tackling the pressing challenges of our time. From human rights and responsible citizenship to Canada’s role in the world and the natural environment, the programme nurtures doctoral students who are committed to making a difference.
Applications are now open for the 2026 competition, with deadlines and key selection dates already announced.
What Makes a Trudeau Foundation Scholar?
The programme is not only looking for academic excellence, but also for well-rounded individuals who demonstrate leadership, social engagement, and openness to diverse perspectives. Successful applicants typically share the following qualities:
- Academic Excellence and Curiosity
- A strong academic record supported by transcripts, publications, or conference presentations.
- A commitment to original thinking, high-level research, and sharing knowledge with wider audiences.
- Commitment to Diverse Perspectives
- Openness to engaging with different people, ideologies, and cultures.
- Respectful collaboration across differences to achieve collective goals.
- Leadership and Community Engagement
- Active involvement in academic and non-academic organizations.
- A demonstrated aspiration to use research for the public good and to step into leadership roles in society.
- Active Participation in the Foundation Community
- Commitment to attend and participate in Foundation events, including conferences, seminars, and masterclasses.
- Willingness to learn from peers, fellows, and mentors in both of Canada’s official languages.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the 2026 Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- You must be one of the following:
- A Canadian student studying at a Canadian university
- A Canadian student studying at an international university
- An international student studying at a Canadian university
(Note: Students at international universities outside of Canada are not eligible.)
- You must be in the first or second year of a doctoral programme at the time of application. Students in the final year of a master’s programme are not eligible.
- Your doctoral research must be broadly related to the humanities and social sciences or human sciences, and directly relevant to the future of Canada.
- Your work should align with at least one of the Foundation’s four key themes:
- Human Rights and Dignity
- Responsible Citizenship
- Canada and the World
- People and Their Natural Environment
The Selection Process
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation uses a multi-stage selection process to identify the most promising candidates.
Key Dates for the 2026 Competition:
- September 9, 2025: Application period opens at 9:00 a.m. EST.
- October 8 and 14, 2025: Information sessions for candidates (English and French options available).
- November 12, 2025: Deadline for references to be submitted.
- November 17, 2025: Final deadline for scholarship applications at 4:00 p.m. EST.
- Week of January 26, 2026: First round of results; selected candidates invited to the next stage.
- February 20, 2026: Invitations for in-person interviews sent out.
- March 10 to 13, 2026: Final interviews with the Selection Committee.
- April 10, 2026: Official announcement of the 2026 scholars.
Why Apply?
Becoming a Trudeau Foundation Scholar means more than receiving financial aid. It means joining a transformative community that supports personal growth, academic excellence, and leadership development.
- You will have access to leading academics, mentors, and peers from across Canada and beyond.
- You will receive guidance to take your research beyond the university and into the public sphere.
- You will participate in unique learning experiences, including seminars and leadership workshops.
This scholarship is designed for individuals who want to push the boundaries of knowledge while also serving society in meaningful ways.
How to Apply
All interested applicants must apply directly to the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation through their online application platform. Unlike some scholarship programmes, universities do not need to nominate candidates.
To apply:
- Submit your doctoral application through the Foundation’s platform.
- Ensure your references are sent by the November 12, 2025 deadline.
- Complete all required sections and confirm that your research aligns with one of the Foundation’s themes.
- Monitor your email for updates regarding shortlisting, interviews, and final results.
More details and the application portal can be found on the official Foundation website: Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
Final Thoughts
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral awards, designed for exceptional scholars who are ready to contribute to the future of Canada and the wider world. It is not only about academic support but also about leadership, diversity, and community engagement.
If you are a doctoral student in your first or second year, with research in the humanities or social sciences that aligns with the Foundation’s values, this opportunity could be the turning point in your academic and professional journey.
Take the leap and apply before the deadline — your future as a Trudeau Scholar could start here.