Applications Are Open for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship 2025
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship is one of the most prestigious doctoral awards in Canada, aimed at supporting and promoting scholars who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential and academic excellence in the social sciences and humanities. It honors the legacy of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau and aims to cultivate leadership by providing both financial and non-financial support to outstanding scholars committed to tackling complex societal issues.
Key Features of the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship
For Ph.D. candidates, the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship offers a remarkable opportunity. It is a transformative leadership program that gives academics access to a wide network of mentors and resources, and it goes beyond a monetary prize. It is recommended for scholars to take part in activities that enhance their knowledge of significant society issues and help them become stronger leaders.
Through a structured three-year program, scholars participate in events, training sessions, and volunteer initiatives aimed at building community leadership.
Activities for Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship
As part of their participation in the scholarship program, scholars are expected to engage in several activities:
- Year One: Leadership and Engagement:
Scholars will participate in various in-person and digital events hosted by the Foundation. These events include the Institutes of Engaged Leadership and Retreats designed to promote active leadership and meaningful discussions on pressing global issues. - Year Two – Impact Conference:
Scholars are tasked with collectively organizing a major event known as the Impact Conference. This conference addresses significant topics related to the Foundation’s themes and is presented during the scholars’ third year. - Language Proficiency Development:
If scholars are not fluent in both of Canada’s official languages—English and French—they are encouraged to enhance their proficiency through formal or informal training. - Community Service and Volunteering:
Scholars are expected to complete a minimum of 30 hours of volunteer work or community service annually outside the Foundation’s programming. These activities should be reported to the Foundation as part of their ongoing engagement in societal contributions.
Tuition Fees in Canada
The cost of education in Canada varies depending on the level of study and the institution. The average tuition fees for international students enrolled in undergraduate programs are around $36,100 per year, while graduate programs, such as doctoral degrees, typically cost $21,100 per year. The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship significantly alleviates this financial burden for its recipients.
Eligibility Criteria for Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship 2025
To be eligible for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- University Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled in or have already been admitted to a Canadian university. When submitting an application, they have to:
- Be completing a Master’s degree (expected completion no later than summer 2025).
- Be in the first or second year of a doctoral program.
- Field of Study: The applicant’s research should be in the humanities, social sciences, or human sciences and align with Canada’s future and societal progress. Additionally, their work must relate to one or more of the Foundation’s four central themes:
- Human Rights and Dignity
- Responsible Citizenship
- Canada and the World
- People and their Natural Environment
- Citizenship:
- Applicants may be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or foreign nationals enrolled in doctoral programs at Canadian institutions.
- Foreign citizens studying abroad or in Canada are eligible to apply.
Scholarship Benefits
The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship offers substantial financial and professional benefits to its recipients. Scholars receive:
Benefits:
- Financial Support: Up to $40,000 per year for three years, along with an annual travel allowance of $20,000.
- Leadership Training: Scholars participate in a leadership training program, connecting with mentors, and engaging in public dialogues.
- Networking Opportunities: Access to the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation’s network of scholars, mentors, and leaders.
- Annual Financial Support: Up to $50,000 annually for three years to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- Exclusive Community Membership: Scholars join a vibrant community of Scholars, Mentors, and Fellows, gaining lifelong access to the Foundation’s alumni network, which offers continued support and collaboration opportunities even after the program ends.
Timeline for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship Program 2025
Here is the key timeline for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship Program 2025:
- September 9, 2025: Application period opens.
- November 20, 2025: Deadline for references.
- November 25, 2025 (4:00 p.m. EST): Application deadline.
- January 27, 2025: Semi-finalists notified.
- February 10–12, 2025: Virtual group interviews for semi-finalists.
- February 19, 2025: Finalists selected for individual interviews.
- March 10–12, 2025: Final interviews conducted.
- May 2025: Official announcement of the 2025 Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholars.
Application Process:
The application process for the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Scholarship involves a few important steps:
- Step 1: Registration
- Visit the Foundation’s application portal and register to create an account.
- If you’ve applied before, do not create a new account; instead, use your previous email address and select the “Forgot password” option.
- Step 2: Application Form
- Fill out the application form, ensuring that all fields are completed accurately.
- Step 3: Submit Your Application
- After filling in the necessary details, respond to the required questions and submit your application before the deadline.
Deadlines:
Application Deadline: The final deadline to submit your application is November 25, 2025.
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- Application deadlines for the 2025 cohort are usually announced in the fall of the previous year, so applicants should check the foundation’s website for precise details.
This scholarship program is highly competitive, and prospective applicants should prepare thoroughly to meet the eligibility criteria and deadlines. With up to $70,000 in annual funding and unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth, this program is one of the most distinguished awards available for doctoral students in Canada.
For further details, you may visit the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation’s official website to keep updated on timelines and specific application requirements for the 2025 scholarship
