Country Focussed
Canada
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
Government of Ontario, Canada
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
Ontario Trillium Scholarship
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship (OTS) is one of Canada’s most prestigious doctoral awards, designed to attract top international Ph.D. students to Ontario’s world-class universities. Offering CAD 40,000 annually for up to four years, the OTS program supports talented scholars who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, research potential, and commitment to advancing knowledge in their respective fields.
Why Study in Canada?
Studying in Canada offers world-class education, affordable tuition, and globally recognized degrees. With safe cities, multicultural communities, and post-study work opportunities, Canada is a top choice for international students. Its universities emphasize research, innovation, and practical learning. Moreover, students enjoy high living standards, part-time job options, and an easy path to permanent residency, making Canada ideal for academic and professional growth.
Everything You Need to Know about the Ontario Trillium Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Ontario Trillium Scholarship, applicants must fulfill all of the following requirements:
1. International Student Status
Must be an international student with a valid Canadian study permit at the time of application.
2. Language Proficiency
Must demonstrate English language proficiency as required by the admitting university.
3. Program of Study
Must intend to enroll in a full-time, doctoral-level program at an Ontario university.
4. Academic Performance
Must have achieved a minimum average of 8.0/10.0 (80%) in a full-time master’s degree program.
5. Exclusion Criteria
- Must not be a current student at an Ontario post-secondary institution (undergraduate or graduate) at the time of application.
- Must not have completed a UG or PG degree in Ontario immediately before applying for admission under OTS.
- Must not hold other major Canadian scholarships (e.g., QEII-GSST, UW Provost Graduate Scholarship).
6. Nomination Process
Most Ontario universities, such as the University of Toronto, University of Ottawa, and York University, automatically nominate eligible, high-performing applicants who meet the criteria.
Organising Entity
Government of Ontario, Canada
Is it Country Focused?
Yes. The OTS program is specifically aimed at international students from around the world, making it a global initiative to bring exceptional talent to Ontario.
Is it University Focused?
Yes. The scholarship is applicable only at Ontario universities such as the University of Toronto, University of Ottawa, York University, University of Waterloo, and other eligible provincial institutions.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
Awarded on the basis of academic excellence, research potential, and overall merit.
Number of Students Selected
Each year, approximately 75 international students are awarded the Ontario Trillium Scholarship across participating universities in Ontario.
What are the Benefits Available
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship offers one of the most generous funding packages available for international doctoral students in Canada.
Annual Scholarship Amount:
Each recipient is awarded CAD 40,000 per year.
Financial Coverage:
The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs, providing significant relief for international students.
Supportive Research Environment:
Recipients gain access to top-tier research facilities, supervision, and mentorship in Ontario’s leading universities.
Duration of Funding:
Renewable for up to four years (subject to maintaining academic performance and eligibility).
Automatic Renewal:
Continued funding each year is contingent upon the recipient maintaining good academic standing and progressing in their doctoral research.
Why Apply for the Ontario Trillium Scholarship?
Prestigious Recognition:
Being awarded the OTS is a mark of excellence and research potential recognized across Canada and globally.
Generous Funding:
CAD 40,000 per year significantly reduces financial stress, allowing scholars to focus on their doctoral research.
Automatic Nomination Process:
Eligible students are often considered automatically, removing the need for a separate application process.
Access to Leading Universities:
Scholars can study at top-ranked Ontario institutions known for their innovation and research excellence.
Career Growth and Networking:
Exposure to cutting-edge research and collaboration opportunities enhances career prospects.
Application Process
While many Ontario universities automatically nominate eligible candidates, prospective students should:
- Apply to a doctoral program at a participating Ontario university by the program deadlines.
- Ensure they meet the academic and language proficiency requirements.
- Prepare strong academic references, a research proposal, and evidence of past achievements.
- Stay in touch with the university’s graduate admissions or scholarship office for nomination updates.
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Final Thoughts
The Ontario Trillium Scholarship is a golden opportunity for international students aspiring to pursue doctoral studies in Canada. With CAD 40,000 annually, renewable for up to four years, this award allows scholars to focus entirely on research and academic growth. By attracting talented researchers from around the globe, Ontario strengthens its position as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge creation.
