The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship enables outstanding PhD candidates to develop into active leaders who make significant contributions to their institutions and communities. The prize fosters academic and leadership development and is valued at up to $50,000 per year for three years to cover living expenses and tuition, plus an extra $20,000 per year for research, travel, and networking. Scholars gain expertise in service, creativity, and pluralism through fellowships, mentorship, retreats, and Institutes of Engaged Leadership. Recipients pledge to actively participate in Foundation events, volunteer at least 30 hours a year, and plan an Impact Conference. As part of their leadership development, they should also become more fluent in both English and French and conversant with Canada’s Indigenous languages.
Eligibility Criteria :
- A full-time PhD program with an anticipated completion date of 2026 or later must have already been admitted into the program or be in its first or second year.
- Study topics should be in the humanities or human sciences and directly relate to Canada’s future (for advice, consult the FAQ and previous researchers).
At least one of the Foundation’s Four Themes must be present in doctoral research:
- Dignity and Human Rights
- Conscientious Citizenship
- The World and Canada
- Humans and the Environment
- Available to foreign nationals enrolled in Canadian PhD programs, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents of Canada.
- Foreign nationals enrolled in institutions outside of Canada are also eligible.
Canada is the host nation.
Study in Canada: Study Abroad
Category: Fellowships & PhD Scholarships
All countries are eligible.
Full Scholarship | $70,000 annually | Travel Expenses as a Reward
Benefits :
- Up to $50,000 each year for three years to pay for living expenses and education.
- An extra $20,000 annually for networking, travel, and research.
- access to a vibrant network of leaders in a variety of fields who serve as Scholars, Mentors, and Fellows.
- In addition to academic courses, mentors and fellows provide guidance for experiential learning and leadership development.
- Opportunities to become more familiar with Indigenous languages and improve bilingual abilities in French and English.
- participation in the Foundation’s alumni network for life.
Deadline: November 17, 2025
