How to Apply for the Michael Smith Canada Graduate Scholarship
The Canada Graduate Scholarships – Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplements (CGS-MSFSS) give graduate students a special chance to develop international relationships and acquire experience conducting research abroad. This supplement supports students’ academic and professional development by helping to defray the costs of undertaking research overseas with up to $6,000 in funding.
Application Deadline:
- 10 June 2026
- Possible second intake: 10 October 2026 (if additional funding is available).
Tell Me About The Award:
The CRTAS‑RTS provides additional funding to active Master’s and Doctoral award holders from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC to offset the costs of research travel within or outside Canada. It is designed to strengthen research skills, foster creativity, and support Canada’s next generation of innovators.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Health Research (CIHR)
- Natural Sciences & Engineering (NSERC)
- Social Sciences & Humanities (SSHRC)
Type:
- Grant | Research Travel Supplement | Canada
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or Protected Persons under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- Hold or have accepted a Master’s or Doctoral award from CIHR, NSERC, or SSHRC (including Vanier CGS).
- Begin research travel on or after the application deadline.
- Not have held a CGS‑MSFSS previously.
- Not hold a CRTAS‑RTS more than once (but can reapply if previously unsuccessful).
How are Applicants Selected?
- Applications reviewed for eligibility and completeness.
- Supplements awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
- Up to 250 awards annually (45 CIHR, 80 NSERC, 125 SSHRC).
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Canada only (for citizens, permanent residents, or Protected Persons).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- Research travel within Canada or abroad, depending on where the applicant’s current award is held.
- If award is held in Canada → travel must be outside Canada.
- If award is held outside Canada → travel must be in Canada.
How Many Awards?
- 250 supplements annually (subject to funding availability).
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- $9,000 non‑renewable supplement.
- Supports 2–6 months of research travel.
- Covers:
- Travel and accommodation (one round trip).
- Meals.
- Tuition at host institution.
- Travel/study visas.
- Insurance.
- Disability accommodation costs directly attributable to research travel.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Minimum 2 months (59 days) to maximum 6 months (184 days).
- Must begin within one year of receiving notice of award.
How to Apply:
- Prepare a complete application (CRTAS‑RTS form + signed terms and conditions).
- Submit electronically as one PDF file before 10 June 2026.
- Results announced within two months of deadline.
- Funds disbursed either via Canadian institution (Master’s/Doctoral award in Canada) or directly to recipient (Doctoral award outside Canada).
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
