Apply for the Connaught International Scholarship in Canada. Get up to $50,000/year funding for PhD at University of Toronto. Check eligibility and apply now.
Overview of Connaught International Scholarship
What if you could study at one of the world’s top-ranked universities in Canada while receiving a funding package worth at least $50,000 per year? The Connaught International Scholarship at the University of Toronto is a prestigious doctoral award designed to attract exceptional international students.
This scholarship works as a high-value top-up to your existing PhD funding package, ensuring strong financial stability while you focus on advanced research. If your goal is to pursue a fully funded PhD in Canada with global recognition, this opportunity delivers both academic prestige and financial security.
Connaught International Scholarship Program Details
- Host Organization: University of Toronto
- Study Destination: Canada
- Funded By: University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies
- Application portal Link: Application Link
- Degree Level: PhD
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Top-Up Scholarship)
- Number of Scholarships: Limited and highly competitive
- Maximum Funding: Minimum $50,000 per year (including $10,000 top-up)
- Study Level: Doctoral
- Duration: 4-5 Years (renewable up to 5 years)
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2026 – 15 January 2027 (varies by graduate unit)
- Program Start: 01 September 2027
Also Apply For: Lester B Pearson Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria for Connaught International Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be an international student (non-Canadian citizen or permanent resident)
- Must not be currently registered at the University of Toronto
- Must secure admission to a full-time PhD program starting September 2027
- Must achieve at least an A- average in the last two years of study
- Must demonstrate strong academic and research potential
Eligible Study Fields and Available PhD Programs
- Life Sciences
- Molecular Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Engineering and Applied Sciences
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Data Science
- Social Sciences
- Economics
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Public Policy
- Humanities
- History
- Philosophy
- Linguistics
- Literature
- Business and Management
- Finance
- Marketing
- Strategy
Application Requirements for Connaught International Scholarship
- Submit PhD admission application to University of Toronto
- Meet all program-specific requirements
- Maintain strong academic record
- Demonstrate research excellence and potential
- Be nominated by your graduate unit
Required Documents for Connaught Scholarship Application
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- CV or resume
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
- Research proposal if required
Must Apply For:Â EMBL International PhD Programme (EIPP)
Language Requirements
English proficiency is mandatory for most programs.
IELTS Requirements for Connaught Scholarship
- IELTS requirement typically ranges between 6.5 – 7.5 depending on program
- TOEFL and equivalent tests are also accepted
Some universities in countries like Germany, France, Italy, and even Canada may allow study without IELTS if you provide a Medium of Instruction certificate. Many fully funded scholarships now accept alternative English proof for international students.
Is Supervisor Required for Connaught Scholarship?
Yes, in most cases.
Applicants are usually required to connect with a supervisor or be admitted into a research-based PhD program. Strategy: contact potential supervisors early and align your research interests with their work.
Benefits of Connaught International Scholarship
Financial Benefits of Connaught Scholarship
- $10,000 annual top-up funding
- Minimum $50,000 total annual funding package
- Tuition fees covered within funding package
- Health insurance support included
Can I apply directly for this scholarship?
No, you must apply through a PhD program and be nominated.
Additional Benefits for International Students
- Guaranteed residence if awarded before 01 May 2027
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Teaching assistantship opportunities
- Research assistantship opportunities
- Strong global networking opportunities
Program Duration, Timeline & Selection Process
Step-by-Step Application Process for Connaught Scholarship
- Select a PhD program at University of Toronto
- Submit your application before the department deadline
- Indicate interest in funding opportunities
- Graduate unit reviews applications
- Top candidates nominated for Connaught Scholarship
- Final selection by School of Graduate Studies
- Results communicated in early March 2027
Also Apply For:Â ASEF Young Leaders Training
Application Deadline & Important Dates for Connaught Scholarship
- Application Opens: 01 October 2026
- Application Deadline: 01 December 2026 – 15 January 2027
- Nomination Period: January – February 2027
- Results Announcement: 01 March – 10 March 2027
- Program Start Date: 01 September 2027
Participating University
- University of Toronto (All graduate divisions and departments)
Why Apply for This Program?
- Fully funded PhD in Canada
- Minimum $50,000 yearly funding
- Study at a globally ranked university
- Access to top research labs
- Guaranteed accommodation benefits
- Strong academic and career growth
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Missing application deadlines
- Weak statement of purpose
- Not securing supervisor early
- Incomplete application submission
- Ignoring nomination process
Connaught Scholarship Salary
The Connaught International Scholarship ensures a minimum annual funding package of $50,000, including stipend, tuition, and assistantships. The $10,000 top-up significantly enhances overall financial support.
Must Apply For:Â Abbott Fund Endowed Scholarship
Connaught Scholarship Acceptance Rate
The scholarship is highly competitive with an estimated acceptance rate below 10 percent. Only top-ranked applicants nominated by graduate units are selected.
Apply Now to Secure Your Future in Canada
The Connaught International Scholarship provides a powerful opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in Canada with strong financial support and global recognition. With a guaranteed high-value funding package, access to top-tier research facilities, and an internationally respected academic environment, this program can transform your research career. Start preparing your documents, apply early to your chosen PhD program, and position yourself for nomination to maximize your chances of success.