McGill University offers a range of graduate scholarships for international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees. These scholarships are merit-based and aim to support students demonstrating academic excellence and research potential. The McGill University Scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also foster academic and professional growth, making McGill an attractive destination for graduate studies.
McGill University, located in Montreal, Canada, is renowned for its academic excellence and research contributions. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, McGill is ranked 29th globally, reflecting its strong international reputation. The McGill University Scholarships provide full funding, leadership development opportunities, and a monthly stipend. Application deadlines vary by program and intake:
Summer Intake: Application opens May 15; deadlines range from October 1 to April 1.
Fall Intake: Application opens September 15; deadlines range from January 15 to June 21, depending on the program.
Winter Intake: Application opens February 15; deadlines range from August 1 to November 10.
University Overview
- Name: McGill University
- Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Global Rankings:
- QS World University Rankings 2023: 30th globally, 2nd in Canada
- Times Higher Education 2023: 49th globally, 3rd in Canada
- Programs Offered: Over 400 graduate programs across various disciplines
- Program Duration:
Study Areas
Interfaculty Studies:
- Biological and Biomedical Engineering (BBME)
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience (IPN)
- Quantitative Life Sciences
Agricultural & Environmental Sciences
- Agricultural Economics
- Animal Science
- Bioresource Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry
- Human Nutrition
- Natural Resource Sciences
- Parasitology
- Plant Science
Arts
- Anthropology
- Art History
- Communication Studies
- East Asian Studies
- Economics
- English
- French Language and Literature
- Geography
- History and Classical Studies
- Information Studies
- International Development
- Islamic Studies
- Jewish Studies
- Languages, Literatures, and Cultures
- Linguistics
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Philosophy
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Public Policy
- Quebec Studies / Études sur le Québec
- Religious Studies
- Social Studies of Medicine
- Social Work
- Sociology
Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences
- Dentistry
Education
- Educational and Counselling Psychology
- Integrated Studies in Education
- Kinesiology and Physical Education
Engineering
- Architecture
- Bioengineering
- Biological and Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining and Materials Engineering
- Urban Planning
Law
- Law
Desautels Faculty of Management
- Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.)
- Master of Management (M.M.)
- Ph.D. in Management
- Executive Master of Business Administration (E.M.B.A.)
- Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Management
- Graduate Certificate in Professional Accounting (GCPA)
Medicine and Health Sciences
- Anatomy and Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Bioethics
- Biostatistics
- Biological and Biomedical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Human Genetics
- Medical Physics
- Medicine, Experimental
- Medicine, Family
- Microbiology and Immunology
- Neuroscience (Integrated Program)
- Nursing
- Occupational Health
- Oncology
- Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
- Pathology
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Physical and Occupational Therapy
- Physiology
- Psychiatry
- Surgery, Experimental
Schulich School of Music
- Music
Science
- Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth and Planetary Sciences
- Geography
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Physics
- Psychology
- Redpath Museum
McGill University Scholarships Benefits
While specific benefits vary depending on the scholarship, common provisions include:
- Tuition Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee waivers
- Stipends: Monthly living allowances (amounts vary, $2,000 CAD / Month)
- Research Funding: Grants for research-related expenses
- Travel Grants: Support for conference attendance or research travel
Benefits Not Included
Typically, the following are not covered:
- Health Insurance: Unless specified, students may need to arrange their own coverage
- Relocation Costs: Travel expenses to Montreal are usually not included
- Dependent Support: Additional funds for family members are generally not provided
Eligibility Criteria for McGill University Scholarships
Eligibility requirements can vary by program and scholarship but generally include:
- A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field is required for admission to a Master’s program.
- A four-year undergraduate degree from a recognized institution is usually needed for Master’s admission.
- A Master’s degree in a related field is typically required for PhD admission.
- Exceptionally strong applicants with extensive research experience may be admitted directly to a PhD program without a Master’s degree.
- A minimum cGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, or 3.2 out of 4.0 in the final two years of study, is required.
- Some programs may require a higher GPA—check the specific program requirements.
- All credentials are assessed for equivalency to McGill standards.
- English proficiency is required. You may need to provide test scores unless exempt.
- Papers, exams, or theses may be submitted in French, unless English proficiency is a course objective.
- English Language Proficiency Requirements
- TOEFL iBT: Overall 86, with minimum 20 in each section. Institution Code: 0935
- IELTS Academic: Band score of 6.5 or higher (UKVI and regular formats accepted; no paper TRFs, no One Skill Retake or IELTS Online)
- PTE Academic: Overall 65, with minimum 60 in each section
- McGill Certificate of Proficiency in English: Certificate awarded
- Browse programs by faculty:
Required Documents
Applicants typically need to submit:
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal
- Letters of Recommendation (usually two)
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Valid passport copy
McGill University Scholarships Application Process
- Create an Account on the Admissions Portal
Visit the McGill Admissions portal login page.
Create an account using your name, email, and date of birth.
A temporary PIN will be sent to your email.
Use the PIN to log in and set a new password.
Previous McGill students must also create a new account. - Start an Application
Click “Start an application.”
Select the appropriate application type and term (Fall, Winter, Summer).
Fill in all required sections:
Personal information
Academic history
Program requirements
Referee information
Additional data
Supporting documents are submitted after the application is submitted. - Review Your Application
Use the “Review” tab to check for missing or incorrect information.
Resolve all errors to enable submission.
Click “Continue” to save changes. - Submit and Pay
Finalize your application by clicking “Finalize and Pay.”
Enter payment and security details.
Submit the application fee online.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin the application process well in advance of deadlines.
- Tailor Your Documents: Customize your Statement of Purpose to align with McGill’s program offerings.
- Secure Strong References: Choose referees who can provide detailed insights into your academic and research abilities.
- Proofread: Ensure all documents are free from errors and clearly present your qualifications.
- Engage with Faculty: If possible, connect with potential supervisors to express your interest and discuss research opportunities.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
Living costs in Montreal can vary, but approximate monthly expenses include:
- Rent: CAD 700 – 1,200
- Food: CAD 300 – 500
- Transportation: CAD 85 – 100
- Miscellaneous: CAD 200 – 300
Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: CAD 1,300 – 2,100
*Note: These figures are estimates and can vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices.*
Why Choose This Opportunity?
- Prestigious Institution: McGill is renowned globally for its academic excellence.
- Diverse Community: Experience a multicultural environment in the heart of Montreal.
- Research Opportunities: Access to cutting-edge research facilities and projects.
- Financial Support: Availability of various scholarships to ease financial burdens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply for multiple scholarships at McGill?
Yes, students can apply for multiple scholarships, provided they meet the eligibility criteria for each.
Q2: Is a separate application required for scholarships?
Some scholarships require separate applications, while others consider all admitted students automatically.
Q3: Are there scholarships specifically for international students?
Yes, McGill offers several scholarships targeted at international students.
Q4: What is the typical duration of scholarship funding?
Scholarship durations vary but often align with the standard length of the academic program.
Q5: Can I work while studying at McGill?
International students are allowed to work part-time during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, subject to visa regulations.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official McGill Scholarships website:
