Are you a passionate student or early-career researcher dreaming of making an impact in social sciences or humanities? The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships 2025/2026 might be the golden opportunity you’ve been waiting for. This scholarship is not just about financial support — it’s about joining a vibrant network of global change-makers and accessing resources that can help you turn your ideas into real-world solutions.
In this article, we’ll explore what the Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is, who is eligible, what it covers, and how you can successfully apply.
What is the Trudeau Foundation Scholarship?
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation is one of Canada’s most prestigious organizations supporting doctoral research in the social sciences and humanities. Its scholarships aim to develop leaders who are ready to address major societal challenges.
By awarding these scholarships, the Foundation seeks to:
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Promote research with real-world social impact
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Develop future leaders and public intellectuals
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Connect scholars to a global network of academics, policymakers, and innovators
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is fully funded, meaning it covers tuition, living expenses, travel, and research costs, allowing you to focus entirely on your doctoral research and leadership development.
Why the Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is a Game-Changer
You might be wondering: “Why choose this scholarship over others?”
Here’s why:
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Generous Funding – Trudeau Scholarships provide $60,000 per year for three years, plus additional funding for research, travel, and professional development.
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Leadership Development – Scholars receive mentorship from experienced academics, policymakers, and leaders in civil society.
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Global Network – Become part of an international community of scholars committed to positive social change.
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Research Support – Access to workshops, conferences, and research grants to enhance your PhD experience.
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Prestige and Recognition – Being a Trudeau Scholar adds significant weight to your academic and professional profile.
In short, it’s more than just money — it’s a platform to launch a meaningful career in public engagement and social research.
Who is Eligible?
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is open to exceptional doctoral students who are:
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Enrolled or planning to enroll in a PhD program at a Canadian university in one of the following areas:
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Humanities
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Social sciences
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Social sciences and humanistic studies
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Committed to engaged scholarship, i.e., research that actively contributes to society
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Fluent in English or French
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Demonstrating leadership qualities, creativity, and a vision for social impact
Important Note: The scholarship is not limited to Canadian citizens. International students pursuing their PhD in Canada are eligible to apply.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is fully funded, with benefits including:
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Annual stipend: $60,000 for up to three years
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Research and travel allowance to support fieldwork, conferences, and collaborations
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Leadership development programs and workshops
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Access to mentorship from global leaders and academics
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Networking opportunities with other scholars across disciplines
This level of support allows you to dedicate your time fully to your research and community engagement, without worrying about financial barriers.
Application Requirements
Applying for the Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is competitive, and your application must include:
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Academic transcripts from your undergraduate and graduate studies
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Letters of recommendation (typically three), preferably from supervisors or mentors who can attest to your academic and leadership potential
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Research proposal outlining your PhD research objectives, methodology, and potential societal impact
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Personal statement highlighting your leadership qualities, community engagement, and vision for change
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Proof of enrollment or admission to a Canadian PhD program
Applications are evaluated on both academic excellence and leadership potential, so it’s crucial to demonstrate your commitment to positive social impact in every part of your submission.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Focus on Impact: Highlight how your research contributes to solving real-world problems.
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Show Leadership: Mention previous projects, volunteer work, or initiatives that showcase your leadership.
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Engage with Your References: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your character, leadership, and academic potential.
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Be Clear and Concise: Make your research proposal easy to understand, even to non-specialists.
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Check Deadlines: Trudeau Foundation applications typically open early in the year, so start preparing early.
Why You Should Apply
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarship is not just about funding your PhD — it’s a transformative experience. Scholars gain:
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Financial freedom to pursue cutting-edge research
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Mentorship from leaders and innovators
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Networking opportunities with global change-makers
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Prestige that opens doors to academic, governmental, and NGO careers
If your dream is to make a meaningful impact in society while pursuing a world-class PhD in Canada, this scholarship is an opportunity you cannot afford to miss.
Conclusion
The Trudeau Foundation Scholarships 2025/2026 are more than just financial support; they’re a chance to join a prestigious network of scholars and leaders committed to positive social change. With a fully funded program, mentorship, and global networking opportunities, this scholarship empowers you to focus on research, innovation, and leadership development.
If you are an ambitious doctoral student ready to make a difference in the world, now is the time to prepare your application and take the first step toward becoming a Trudeau Scholar.
Next Steps:
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Start drafting your research proposal
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Identify strong recommenders
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Ensure you are enrolled or plan to enroll in a Canadian PhD program
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Visit the official Trudeau Foundation website for application dates and detailed instructions: Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
Dream big, apply early, and become a part of Canada’s global community of changemakers!