Canada (Commonwealth)_Hey there! Are you a graduate student with a passion for excellence in your studies? Well, we’ve got some exciting news for you! The University of Waterloo is thrilled to offer the prestigious Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and the Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) programs. These awards are designed to celebrate and support outstanding graduate students like you across various academic disciplines.
Fields of Study: Whether you’re delving into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM), or exploring other fascinating academic pursuits, we’ve got you covered. The OGS is open to all disciplines, welcoming both Canadian Citizens/Permanent Residents and International students. Meanwhile, the QEII-GSST is tailored specifically for students in research-based graduate programs within the STEM disciplines and is exclusively available to Canadian Citizens/Permanent Residents.
Eligibility Criteria: We believe in recognizing and celebrating exceptional talent from all corners of the globe. If you’re an international applicant, you must hold a valid study permit under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada). For domestic applicants, being a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident, or a Protected Person under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) makes you eligible.
Academic Brilliance: We’re looking for the best of the best, and that means achieving a first-class average (minimum of A-/80%) in EACH of the last two completed years of study (full-time equivalent). Your eligibility averages are calculated using grades from your most recent academic history up to August 31, 2023.
Program of Study: Whether you’re in a research-based or course-based program, we welcome your application for the OGS. The QEII-GSST, on the other hand, is exclusively for research-based graduate programs in the STEM disciplines. If you’re a course-based student, just be sure to demonstrate evidence of all criteria under which your application will be evaluated, including research ability.
Registration/Admission Status: International applicants must be currently registered in a graduate program at Waterloo or be on an approved leave of absence/inactive term by February 1, 2024. Due to the limited quota of awards available for international students, prospective graduate students are not eligible to apply. Domestic applicants, on the other hand, must be currently registered in a graduate program at Waterloo or be on an approved leave of absence/inactive term by February 1, 2024, or apply for full-time graduate admission at Waterloo with a start term of either spring 2024, fall 2024, or winter 2025.
Time in Program: We welcome selected recipients who are within their program time limits, but don’t worry if you’ve exceeded them slightly – you’re still eligible to apply.
Maximum Support: Master’s students can receive an OGS or QEII-GSST for a maximum of two academic years, and doctoral students for a maximum of four academic years. Keep in mind that there’s a lifetime maximum of six (6) years of government-funded graduate awards, including OGS, QEII-GSST, Ontario Trillium Scholarships (OTS), and Tri-Agency Scholarships (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC, Vanier).
Evaluation Criteria: We believe in a holistic approach to evaluation. Your application will be considered based on three key areas: Academic Excellence (30-50%), Research Ability and Potential in Program of Study (30-50%), and Communication and Leadership Abilities (10-20%). Each department and Faculty have their own weightings within these ranges, ensuring a fair assessment.
Benefits of the Award: Each OGS and QEII-GSST is valued at a maximum of $15,000 per year, paid in $5,000 installments per term. And here’s some extra good news – as a recipient, you’ll also be eligible for the President’s Graduate Scholarship (PGS) from Waterloo, celebrating your outstanding academic achievement.
Application Process: To apply, remember that the OGS and QEII-GSST scholarships are not portable, so you’ll need to submit separate applications at each institution where you wish to be considered. Each institution has its own unique application process and timeline, so make sure to check them out.
We’re beyond excited to support and celebrate exceptional graduate students like you through the OGS and QEII-GSST programs. Your dedication to academic excellence in various fields is truly commendable, and we can’t wait to see the incredible contributions you’ll make in the future. Best of luck with your application, and we look forward to welcoming you to the University of Waterloo!
