Dalhousie University, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is one of Canada’s leading institutions known for its commitment to academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and student success. Established in 1818, the university has built a global reputation for providing world-class education across diverse disciplines, fostering critical thinking, and promoting hands-on learning experiences.
The university places a strong emphasis on research and experiential learning, ensuring that students gain practical exposure through internships, co-op programs, and community engagement. With state-of-the-art research centers and industry collaborations, Dalhousie prepares students to tackle real-world challenges and become leaders in their respective fields.
Scholarship Overview
Dalhousie University is dedicated to supporting both national and international students by offering a variety of scholarships for Master’s and PhD programs in 2025/2026. These scholarships provide an excellent opportunity for students to pursue advanced studies in a top-ranked Canadian university while benefiting from substantial financial support.
Through its extensive research institutes and funding opportunities, Dalhousie continues to lead in innovation, making significant contributions to fields such as marine biology, health sciences, and sustainability. The scholarship programs reflect the university’s mission to foster academic excellence and global engagement by attracting top-tier students from around the world.
Scholarship Benefits
Dalhousie University offers multiple prestigious scholarships for graduate students, each designed to provide financial relief and academic encouragement.
Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarship
- Provides $10,000 per year for two years for Master’s students.
- Offers $15,000 per year for four years for Doctoral students.
- Renewable based on academic performance.
Killam Predoctoral Scholarships
- Provides up to $42,000 annually for Master’s (up to two years) and Doctoral students (up to three years).
- Includes an additional $2,500 to cover international tuition fees.
- Offers a relocation allowance to assist students moving to Halifax.
Vitamin Scholarship
- Awards $19,000 for Master’s students and $21,000 for Doctoral students.
- Covers a full academic year (12 months).
- Typically awarded to one or two students annually.
Abdul Majid Bader Graduate Scholarship
- Valued at $40,000 per year for full-time students.
- Renewable for up to two years (24 months).
- Does not cover university fees, meaning recipients are responsible for additional expenses.
These scholarships reflect Dalhousie University’s commitment to attracting and supporting top-tier students through financial assistance, ensuring they can focus on their academic and research goals without financial burdens.
Eligibility Requirements
Students applying for these scholarships must meet specific criteria to be considered for funding.
For Master’s Students:
- Review the CGS-M Evaluation Criteria, which outlines the standards used to assess and rank applications.
- Use clear and concise language in your application to enhance readability.
- Follow the guidelines provided in the Outline of Proposed Research section to create a strong research proposal.
For Doctoral Applicants:
- Familiarize yourself with the Harmonized CGS-Doctoral Selection Criteria, as this will play a crucial role in the evaluation process.
- Ensure your research proposal follows the structure outlined in the Vanier or Tri-Agency Doctoral competitions.
By adhering to these criteria and preparing a well-documented application, students can maximize their chances of receiving financial aid.
Application Process
To apply for Dalhousie University scholarships, follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Create Your Application
- Log in to the university’s scholarship portal.
- Select your desired scholarship under “My Applications” on the homepage.
- Remember that applicants can submit only one Harmonized Scholarship application per competition cycle.
Step 2: Master’s CGS-M Opt-In (if applicable)
- Master’s students who applied for the Tri-Agency CGS-M competition can opt in for the Harmonized Scholarship Process.
- Select “Master’s Level – CGS-M Opt-In” as the submission category.
- The Faculty of Graduate Studies will automatically link your CGS-M application to your opt-in form.
- The opt-in deadline is December 1, aligning with the CGS-M application deadline.
Step 3: Upload Transcripts
- Upload your official transcripts to the scholarship portal as per the application guidelines.
- Current Dalhousie students may submit unofficial grade reports instead of official transcripts.
Step 4: Submit Reference Letters
- Reference letters must be uploaded to the portal no later than January 16, 2024 (or February 15 for non-thesis applicants).
- Late submissions will not be reviewed, so it’s recommended to remind referees of the deadline in advance.
- Once reference letters are received, a “received” status will appear next to each referee’s name in the system.
By following these steps and ensuring all documents are submitted on time, applicants can avoid common mistakes and strengthen their chances of securing funding.
Why Study at Dalhousie University?
Dalhousie University offers students a world-class education combined with hands-on learning experiences. Choosing to study at Dalhousie provides several advantages:
- Globally Recognized Degrees – A degree from Dalhousie is highly respected in Canada and internationally, increasing career opportunities worldwide.
- Research Excellence – The university is home to numerous research institutes, offering students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects.
- Supportive Academic Environment – Faculty members and advisors are committed to helping students excel both academically and professionally.
- Multicultural Community – With students from more than 115 countries, Dalhousie fosters a diverse and inclusive learning atmosphere.
- Career Development Opportunities – Students benefit from strong industry connections, co-op programs, and internship placements that enhance career prospects.
Official Website
For the most up-to-date information on scholarships, eligibility, and application deadlines, visit the Dalhousie University Scholarships official website. This resource provides applicants with detailed guidelines to help them successfully navigate the scholarship application process.
Dalhousie University’s scholarship programs offer an exceptional opportunity for students to pursue graduate studies at one of Canada’s top research institutions. With generous funding, extensive research opportunities, and a supportive academic community, these scholarships serve as a gateway to academic and professional success. Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and apply early to secure their chance at financial support for their studies in Canada.