Welcome to the NSERC Masters Scholarship, a prestigious initiative aimed at empowering exceptional graduate students in the pursuit of advanced research and academic excellence. Administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), this scholarship is designed to recognize and support the outstanding achievements of scholars engaged in master’s programs across various disciplines.
As we get into the realms of innovation, discovery, and knowledge advancement, the NSERC Masters Scholarship stands as a beacon, providing financial assistance and fostering a community of scholars dedicated to pushing the boundaries of research. Join us on this transformative journey as we celebrate and invest in the future leaders of Canadian research.
NSERC Masters Scholarship Objective
The goal of the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) program is to foster the development of research skills and contribute to the training of exceptionally qualified individuals. This is achieved by providing support to students who exhibit a superior level of accomplishment in their undergraduate and early graduate studies.
Description About Nserc Masters Scholarship
The CGS M program offers financial assistance to outstanding scholars enrolled in eligible master’s or, in certain cases, doctoral programs in Canada (refer to Eligibility for details). This support empowers scholars to dedicate themselves fully to their studies in their chosen fields.
Annually, the CGS M program benefits up to 3,000 students across all disciplines. Jointly administered by Canada’s three granting agencies—Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)—the selection process and post-award administration occur at the institutional level, guided by the three agencies.
Applicants submit their applications to the institution where they plan to hold the award through the Research Portal.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the NSERC Masters Scholarship, candidates must meet the following conditions:
- Be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the
- Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) by the application deadline.
- Enroll, apply, or intend to apply for full-time admission to an eligible graduate program at the master’s or doctoral level in a Canadian institution with a CGS M allocation.
- Adhere to the internal deadline for admission application set by the selected Canadian institution; contact the faculty of graduate studies for specific details.
- Have completed, as of December 31 of the application year, either 0 to 12 months of full-time studies in the program for which funding is requested, or 4 to 12 months of full-time study in an eligible master’s program for which degree requirements will be completed before activation of the award.
Program of Study Eligibility:
An eligible graduate program must include a substantial research component leading to a thesis, major research project, dissertation, scholarly publication, or other merit-reviewed requirements.
Tenure Locations:
CGS M awards are exclusively tenable at eligible Canadian institutions.
Field of Research and Subject Matter Eligibility:
NSERC, CIHR, and SSHRC support diverse disciplines and fields of research, requiring applicants to submit their application to an institution with an allocation for their intended field. Applications incorrectly labeled will be re-categorized according to the agency’s research subject matter guidelines.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI):
The Tri-agency emphasizes the importance of fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion in the Canadian research landscape. Additional funds have been allocated to support Black student researchers, and CGS M applicants who self-identify as Black can be considered for designated funding through this initiative.
Consult the Frequently Asked Questions about the new Black scholars funding webpage for more details.
Selection Criteria:
The assessment of CGS M applications will be conducted by institutions with an allocation and will be based on the following evaluation criteria:
1. Academic Excellence:
Demonstrated through past academic results, transcripts, awards, and distinctions.
Indicators of Academic Excellence:
- Academic record
- Scholarships and awards held
- Duration of previous studies
- Type of program and courses pursued
- Course load
- Relative standing (if available)
- Weight: 50%
2. Research Potential:
Demonstrated through research history, interest in discovery, proposed research, its potential contribution to advancing knowledge, and any anticipated outcomes.
Indicators of Research Potential:
- Quality and originality of contributions to research and development
- Relevance of work experience and academic training to the proposed research field
- Significance, feasibility, and merit of proposed research
- Judgment and critical thinking ability
- Application of skills and knowledge
- Initiative and autonomy
- Research experience and achievements relative to expectations based on academic experience
- Weight: 30%
3. Personal Characteristics and Interpersonal Skills:
Demonstrated through past professional and relevant extracurricular interactions and collaborations.
Indicators of Personal Characteristics and Interpersonal Skills:
- Work experience
- Leadership experience
- Project management, including organizing conferences and meetings
- Ability or potential to communicate theoretical, technical, or scientific concepts clearly and logically in written and oral formats
- Involvement in academic life
- Volunteerism/community outreach
- Weight: 20%
Application Guidelines
To initiate your application for the CGS M program, you are required to fully fill out and submit your application to a maximum of three institutions through the Research Portal. Refer to the Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s program: Instructions for completing an application for comprehensive details on the application process and guidelines.
Click Here to Read More Before Application
The NSERC Masters Scholarship stands as a testament to the commitment towards cultivating excellence in research and education. As we wrap up our exploration of this esteemed program, we recognize the invaluable impact it has on shaping the future of Canadian scholarship.
Through financial support, mentorship, and a dedication to advancing knowledge, the NSERC Masters Scholarship contributes significantly to the growth of a vibrant and dynamic academic community. As scholars embark on their research journeys, armed with newfound skills and insights, the program’s legacy continues to resonate in the pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries and the development of the next generation of leaders in science and engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible to apply for the NSERC Masters Scholarship?
Eligibility criteria include being a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, enrolling in an eligible master’s program, and demonstrating academic excellence. Refer to the official guidelines for comprehensive eligibility details.
How is the NSERC Masters Scholarship selection process conducted?
The selection process involves a merit review by institutions with allocations. Academic excellence, research potential, and personal characteristics are key evaluation criteria.
The process is guided by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in collaboration with other granting agencies.
What is the annual student intake and administration process for the NSERC Masters Scholarship?
The program supports up to 3,000 students annually across all disciplines. Jointly administered by NSERC, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the selection and administration occur at the institutional level.
Applicants submit their applications through the Research Portal to the institution where they intend to hold the award.
Leave a Comment