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Updated On Feb 12, 2024

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Why Study Ph.D. in Canada?

Overview of ph.d. programs in canada, list of top 5 universities to pursue phd programs in canada, eligibility criteria & admission requirements to study phd in canada, cost of studying phd in canada for international students, top 5 ph.d. scholarships in canada for international students, job opportunities after pursuing ph.d. in canada.

Did you know every year, Canada welcomes over 80,000 international students eager to dive into the world of cutting-edge research and pursue their PhD dreams? With world-renowned universities, groundbreaking innovation, and a supportive research environment, Canada has become a magnet for aspiring academics from around the globe.

But navigating the path to a Ph.D. in Canada can feel like trekking through an unfamiliar forest. Well, breathe easy, future Dr.! This comprehensive guide is your compass, ready to clear the path and lead you on a smooth journey to securing your PhD spot in Canada. Let’s begin!

The journey to a Ph.D. is about pushing boundaries, delving deep into your field, and making a splash in the world of knowledge. But where you choose to start on this exciting quest matters. Let's find out why Canada is your ideal destination for pursuing a PhD program.

• Canada ranks 13th in the Global Innovation Index 2023 , boasting top-notch research facilities and a collaborative environment.
• With 19 universities among the top 200 in QS World University Rankings 2024 , Canada boasts a stellar track record of producing research superstars.
• With over $4 billion invested in health research annually , Canada offers generous funding opportunities for qualified PhD students.
• Completing your PhD grants you valuable Canadian experience and opens doors to permanent residency , making it a strategic investment in your future career.
• With a 12% job growth rate predicted for clinical research professionals, and competitive salaries averaging over $65,000 per year , Canada offers rewarding opportunities to put your expertise to work.

Explore: Is It Worth Moving to Canada from India?

Canada stands as a beacon for pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, offering a diverse range of programs across various disciplines. Here's a comprehensive overview of PhD programs in the Great White North.

Canada is home to world-renowned institutions that offer exceptional Ph.D. programs across diverse disciplines. Here are the top 5 universities known for their excellence in research and academic prowess.

1. University of Toronto

As Canada's leading institution, the University of Toronto consistently ranks among the top global universities. With a robust commitment to research, it provides a conducive environment for pursuing a PhD across a multitude of fields.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

The University of British Columbia is acclaimed for its innovative research and academic excellence. Its picturesque Vancouver campus attracts scholars from around the world. UBC offers a wide range of PhD programs with a focus on interdisciplinary research.

3. McGill University

Situated in the vibrant city of Montreal, McGill University is renowned for its research-intensive programs. With a diverse and inclusive academic community, McGill provides an excellent platform for pursuing a PhD with global recognition.

4. McMaster University

McMaster is known for its strong emphasis on research and discovery. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster offers a collaborative environment for doctoral candidates, fostering innovation and critical thinking.

5. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal, a French-language institution, is a hub for cutting-edge research. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, it offers a dynamic platform for pursuing a Ph.D. in a vibrant academic setting.

Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Canada is a rewarding endeavor, but it requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and fulfilling admission requirements. Here's a breakdown of what aspiring PhD candidates need to consider.

• Educational Qualifications: Candidates must hold a relevant master's degree from a recognized institution. Some programs may accept exceptional candidates with an outstanding bachelor's degree.
• Research Proposal: A well-crafted research proposal outlining your intended area of study is often a crucial part of the application. This should highlight your research goals, methodology, and expected contributions to the field.
• Academic Transcripts: Submit comprehensive academic transcripts from all previous institutions attended. These transcripts should demonstrate a strong academic record, particularly in relevant courses.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) : Provide letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic and research capabilities. These letters should emphasize your potential for successful doctoral research.
• Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, depending on the language of instruction at your chosen institution. Most universities accept scores from language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. (TOEFL - Overall 107/20, IELTS - Overall 7.5)
• CV/Resume: Submit a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) or resume highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, publications, and any relevant work experience.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) : Craft a compelling Statement of Purpose detailing your motivation for pursuing a Ph.D., your research interests, and how the program aligns with your career goals.
• Entrance Exams: While not universally required, some programs may mandate standardized entrance exams, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or discipline-specific exams.
• Portfolio of Research Work: If applicable, include a portfolio showcasing your previous research work, publications, or projects. This can strengthen your application and demonstrate your research capabilities.
• Interview: Be prepared for an interview, either in-person or virtually, where you may discuss your research proposal, academic background, and motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Proof of Financial Support: Some institutions may require proof of financial support to ensure you can cover your tuition and living expenses throughout the duration of your PhD program.

Note: It's crucial to carefully review the specific requirements of the chosen university and PhD program, as these may vary.

Understanding the comprehensive cost of studying for a PhD in Canada enables international students to plan their finances effectively. Here's a breakdown of the financial considerations.

1. Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for Ph.D. programs in Canada vary by institution and program. On average, international students can expect to pay between 8,000 CAD to 16,000 CAD per year. This cost is influenced by factors such as the university's reputation and the field of study.

2. Living Expenses

The cost of living in Canada also varies based on the city and lifestyle. As a general estimate, international students should budget around 15,000 CAD to 20,000 CAD per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.

Dive into: Top Jobs in Canada for Indian Freshers in 2023

3. Health Insurance

International students are required to have health insurance coverage in Canada. The cost of health insurance varies, and international students should budget approximately 600 CAD to 1,000 CAD per year for this mandatory expense.

4. Books and Supplies

Ph.D. programs often entail additional expenses for books, research materials, and supplies. International students should allocate around 1,000 CAD to 2,000 CAD annually for these academic resources.

5. Miscellaneous Fees

Institutions may charge miscellaneous fees covering services like access to recreational facilities, student unions, and other campus resources. This can range from 500 CAD to 1,000 CAD per year.

Canada offers a plethora of prestigious scholarships for international PhD students. Here are some notable options that can pave the way for your doctoral journey

1. Ontario Trillium Scholarship (Western University)

Administered by Western University, this scholarship provides substantial financial support for international PhD students, covering tuition and living expenses.

Scholarship Amount: 40,000 CAD/year, renewable for up to 4 years.

2. University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarships

A one-time award for outstanding international PhD candidates entering the University of Alberta. While not renewable, it provides a significant boost to initial finances.

Scholarship Amount: 21,000 CAD, cannot be renewed.

3. Doctoral Scholarship at the University of Montreal

Designed for doctoral candidates at the University of Montreal, this scholarship offers financial assistance for the first year, with the option for renewal for a second year.

Scholarship Amount: 7,000 CAD, renewable once.

Also, read: Best PhD Scholarships for Indian Students Abroad

4. 4-Year Doctoral Fellowship - University of British Columbia

This prestigious fellowship at the University of British Columbia supports international Ph.D. students with a substantial stipend and full coverage of tuition fees throughout the 4-year program.

Scholarship Amount: 18,200 CAD (annual stipend), covers full tuition fees for up to 4 years.

5. Graduate Entrance Scholarship - University of Windsor

Awarded to exceptional international PhD candidates entering the University of Windsor, this scholarship provides financial support for the first year, with the possibility of renewal for three additional years.

Scholarship Amount: 7,500 CAD, renewable for up to 4 years.

Note: Before applying, ensure you thoroughly review the specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and renewal conditions for each scholarship.

Completing a Ph.D. in Canada not only signifies academic achievement but also opens doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities. Here are some compelling job prospects for Ph.D. graduates in Canada.

Take off Your Dream Career in Canada with GetGIS

Starting a PhD journey in Canada is a transformative experience, offering academic excellence, diverse research opportunities, and a welcoming environment. Remember that thorough planning and guidance are essential for a successful academic and immigration journey. Navigating visa applications, work permits, and residency options can be complex. That's where GetGIS comes in.

GetGIS stands as a reliable partner in your quest for a seamless transition to Canada. Our dedicated team understands the nuances of the Canadian immigration landscape and is poised to guide you through every step. Don’t wait!

Book Your Free Consultation!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I settle in Canada after PhD?

Are PhD fully funded in Canada?

Can I work full-time while doing a PhD in Canada?

Which PhD is most in demand in Canada?

How much is a PhD stipend in Canada?

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PhD programs

Take a deep dive into the topic you love with a phd, at the university of ottawa, you can:.

• Join a select community of researchers and work in state-of-the-art labs – uOttawa is ranked among the top 10 research universities in Canada.
• Study in the heart of the nation’s capital, a bilingual and multicultural setting where networks of senior stakeholders take action on major issues and influence decisions.
• Receive considerable financial support.

“One of the reasons I chose the University of Ottawa is for its multidisciplinary or multi-university thesis committees available to students in their first year of doctoral studies.”

Valérie Costanzo, LL.B., LL.M., lawyer, PhD candidate

Explore ways to finance your doctoral studies

The University of Ottawa has many scholarships or financial support options available to you. As a doctoral candidate, there is also the option to earn money while gaining valuable experience through teaching and research assistantships.

“Supervising doctoral students is a privilege: it allows for the discovery of new research challenges and for the development of sustainable relationships.”

Emmanuelle Bernheim, LL.D., PhD, Full professor, Faculty of Law, Civil Law Section

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PhD in Canada: 2024 Admission Process, Cost, Scholarships, & Job Prospects

The annual tuition fees for PhD in Canada range from 7,000 CAD to 15,142 CAD, equivalent to 4.29 lakhs to 9.28 lakhs INR. PhD in Canada offers a strong return on investment as graduates can earn up to CAD 95,364 equivalent to 58.56 lakhs INR. Universities in Canada offer various scholarships to PhD students to help them manage their financial burden.

PhD in Canada Top Universities

Below is a table showcasing the top universities and total annual tuition fees for PhD in Canada, along with the PhD programs in Canada.

Why Study PhD in Canada?

Here are a few reasons why international students should pursue PhD degree in Canada:

• After completing a doctorate in Canada, international students can earn an average annual salary of CAD 95,364 equivalent to 58.56 lakhs INR.
• Many top universities in Canada offer scholarships to international students to pursue a PhD. Some scholarships are The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship, The University of British Columbia Four-Year Doctoral Fellowship and the Ontario Graduate Scholarship.
• Pursuing PhD in Canada will offer international students a high return on investment of 530.42%.
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) - International students can stay and work in Canada for up to three years with the PGWP.

PhD in Canada: Admissions

To secure admission to PhD in Canada, the following common documents are required, along with eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Criteria for PhD in Canada

The eligibility criteria for international students to pursue PhD in Canada vary according to the programs and universities.

Here are the common eligibility criteria for PhD in Canada:

• Master’s degree in the relevant field with good grades.
• Proficiency in the English language is mandatory for international students who are not natives of English-speaking countries.
• TOEFL iBT : Overall 79 to 90
• IELTS : Overall 5.5 to 6.5
• Documents required by international students for admission to the PhD in Canada are as follows:
• 2-3 letters of reference
• Statement of Intent (Max 1 page)
• GRE is optional
• Attach Unofficial Transcripts
• Statement of purpose

PhD in Canada: Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance for pursuing PhD in Canada is calculated by combining the total estimated tuition fees for one year with the cost of living in Canada.

PhD in Canada Fees

The total annual tuition fees for PhD in Canada range from 7,000 CAD to 15,142 CAD , equivalent to 4.29 lakhs to 9.28 lakhs INR.

Cost of Living in Canada

The cost of living in Canada encompasses major expenses such as housing, groceries, transportation, mobile and internet expenses, and electricity. Living in Canada is, on average, almost 195% pricier than in India. Please consult the table below for a breakdown of expenditures in Canada.

PhD Scholarship in Canada

There are various scholarships available for international students to study in Canada which many universities offer. Below is the table shedding light on the scholarships available for PhD in Canada, along with the eligibility criteria and awards.

PhD in Canada Job Opportunities

There are high-paying jobs in Canada for international students . After completing a PhD in Canada, graduates can earn an average annual salary of CAD 95,364 equivalent to 58.56 lakhs INR.

The following table showcases job titles available to those with PhD in Canada, along with top recruiters and the average salaries offered:

Source: Payscale

PhD in Canada: Return on Investment

The table presents the total annual tuition fees of the top universities in Canada for PhD, along with the average graduate salary per year.

When considering studying in Canada , it is important to look toward job opportunities after graduation. Over the period 2022-2031, new job openings for university professors and lecturers are arising from the expansion of demand and replacement. According to the Government of Canada Labour Market Information Survey, A total of 29,700 new job opportunities are predicted between 2022 and 2031. While 29,500 new job seekers arising from school leavers, immigration and mobility are expected to be available to fill them.

Ques. How much does it cost to study PhD in Canada?

Ans . The total cost of pursuing PhD in Canada can be calculated by adding the total annual tuition fees and cost of living in Canada. The annual tuition fee for PhD in Canada is 7,000 CAD to 15,142 CAD, equivalent to 4.29 lakhs to 9.28 lakhs INR. The cost of living in Canada includes the Rent, Mobile Phone and Internet, Electricity, Meals, Transportation and Personal expenses. Living in Canada costs more than in India. The average annual cost of living in Canada is CAD 63,738 (39 lakhs INR).

Ques. How many years is PhD in Canada?

Ans . PhD in Canada for Indian students takes 3 to 6 years to complete. The duration of the course varies from university to university.

Ques. Can I do PhD in Canada for a fee?

Ans . In Canada, PhD programs are not free for international students. Universities in Canada often charge higher tuition fees for international students compared to domestic or home students. The annual tuition fee for PhD in Canada is 7,000 CAD to 15,142 CAD, equivalent to 4.29 lakhs to 9.28 lakhs INR.

Ques. Can I work while doing PhD in Canada?

Ans . Yes, In Canada, with a valid study permit, full-time international students are usually allowed to work part-time on or off campus during university semesters for up to 20 hours per week . During scheduled breaks, such as winter or summer vacations, students are often permitted to work full-time.

Ques. Which PhD is most in demand in Canada?

Ans . The most in-demand PhD programs in Canada are from STEM disciplines and Humanities. Here are some of the names of the popular PhD programs in Canada:

• PhD in Aerospace Science and Engineering
• PhD in Anthropology
• PhD in Biochemistry
• PhD in Information Studies
• PhD in Biology
• PhD in Biological Sciences
• PhD in Chemistry
• PhD in Computing Science
• PhD in Chemical Engineering
• PhD in Biomedical Engineering
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management
• PhD in Mining Engineering
• PhD in Water Engineering

Ques. How much IELTS score is required for PhD in Canada?

Ans . Proficiency in English is mandatory for pursuing PhD in Canada. International students must have TOEFL scores of 79 to 90 or IELTS scores of 5.5 to 6.5.

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• PhD Study in Canada – 2024

Canada is home to some of North America's most historic and globally renowned research universities. Its cosmopolitan society also make it a popular home for thousands of international PhD students.

The number of people studying abroad in Canada has risen by almost 30% in recent years. It's not hard to see why! Students are attracted by Canada's liberal society which celebrates its acclaimed universities. Not to mention the chance to explore the country's diverse range of stunning natural landscapes and habitats.

Why study a PhD in Canada?

• Internationally renowned universities - Canada's oldest universities date back to the seventeenth century. But, their research continues to be world-leading. Five institutions feature in the top 150 of all three major global rankings. You can be confident that a PhD from Canada is well-respected.
• Attractive international fees - PhD study in Canada is generally cheaper than in the USA. Some universities actually reduce - or even waive - international fees.
• Post-study opportunities – Completing your doctorate will entitle you to live and work in Canada for up to three years. This could lead to a pathway of permanent residency, or even citizenship.
• The great outdoors –From the Great Lakes of Ontario and Québec to the unspoilt wilderness of the vast Northwest Territories, there's plenty to explore (and even research) during your PhD.

Most courses require at least three years of full-time study and research. Some students may study for longer. You can usually register for up to six years.

In most cases you'll need to hold a Masters degree to apply for a standard Canadian PhD programme. However, some universities offer doctoral stream Masters routes that start with one or two years of MA or MSc study. These are suitable for students coming straight from an undergraduate degree but take longer to complete.

The Canadian PhD process

PhD study in Canada has more in common with the UK than the neighbouring USA. The US PhD normally begins with taught classes and examinations. However, like in the UK, a Canadian PhD is more research-focused from the outset.

However, it is also common for universities to offer structured courses within PhD programmes . Academic cohorts of students undergo collective training alongside their more independent research activities.

Courses often focus on key skills such as research techniques and methodological principles. You might have additional training in areas such as teaching, presentation or publication. Some doctoral programmes also arrange internships and professional placements.

Generally, students complete these courses in the first year of their PhD, before moving on to focus on their doctoral thesis.

In some cases you may need to sit a comprehensive exam at the end of your first or second year. This tests your general knowledge of the field before you can proceed onto more specific research. It is similar to the MPhil upgrade or 'confirmation review' used in UK universities.

Academic year

The Canadian academic year generally runs from September to April. But exact semester dates vary between individual provinces and their universities.

Supervision and research

You'll complete your PhD under the guidance of at least one academic supervisor. They'll be an expert in your general subject and field, though they won't have researched on your specific topic before (it wouldn't be a PhD, otherwise).

The main criteria for your degree will be the completion of a doctoral thesis. As in other countries, this must make a substantial new contribution to knowledge.

If your qualification is a professional doctorate , such as a DBA or EdD, you'll focus mainly on practical work and case studies. You'll still be required to submit a thesis, but this may be shorter and supplemented by other materials.

Assessment and examination

The main criteria for a Canadian PhD is the originality and quality of your doctoral thesis . You'll normally begin drafting this during the middle part of your PhD. Then, write up a final version based on feedback from your supervisor.

Once you submit your dissertation a committee of examiners will be appointed to read and consider it. Your PhD will then proceed to an oral defence.

This process may be slightly more involved than the viva voce used in the UK and elsewhere. You may be expected to offer a presentation on your research before being questioned on the content and significance of your thesis.

The examiners will then meet to decide if your examination performance was satisfactory. If it was, you will be awarded your PhD!

Some Canadian PhD programmes also include coursework and examinations. However, these will normally be to check your progress, and won't count towards your final result.

Cotutelle programmes

Some Canadian universities work with international institutions to offer a collaborative route to a PhD. This is known as a 'cotutelle' (French for 'co-tutored').

These programmes involve a student spending time at two different universities. Both are involved in supervising, examining and awarding the PhD project.

In this sense a cotutelle is a bit like a joint PhD. However, a cotutelle is usually specific to the student's project rather than an ongoing partnership between a pair of universities. It's helpful to think of a cotutelle as a specific kind of joint PhD.

The availability of this option varies between individual Canadian universities. Check with your institution for more information.

If you’re interested in studying your PhD in Canada, we’ve covered everything you need to know in our selection of guides below, including applications, visas and funding.

Find a PhD in Canada

Ready to start looking for your idea project? Browse PhDs in Canada in our database.

This guide tells you all about everything you need to apply for a PhD programme in Germany.

Canada is a popular and surprisingly affordable destination for PhD study, with comparatively low fees and a range of fellowships, graduate assistantships and other funding options.

Want to study a PhD in Canada? This guide gives a detailed introduction to the kind of visa you need to study in Canada and how to apply for it.

What's it like to live in Canada during a PhD? Our guide covers accommodation, student living costs, working and other key information.

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Learn more about our competitive five-year funding package.

Our Funding Commitment

All students will be provided with a five-year funding package totalling $164,000 with a minimum of $33,000 per year for the first four years in the PhD Program. Funding is conditional upon meeting the progression requirements and may come from a variety of sources, including internal and external scholarships, funding from research grants, and, in years two through five, Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA),  Graduate Student Assistantships (GSA) or teaching.

We also offer our students $8,000 over the course of their PhD career to present their research or serve as discussants at eligible conferences, and an additional $3,000 to help defray expenses related to their thesis research.

There are various other funds linked to our Centres and Institutes that may also be available, and many students successfully apply for other scholarships such as Ontario Graduate Scholarships  and  SSHRC Fellowships . In addition, individual donors, businesses, and organizations have generously committed to further investing in our students through a variety of scholarships:

• Brock Scholarships
• C.B. (Bud) Johnston Ontario Graduate Scholarships
• Chisholm Doctoral Scholarship
• Dr. Alivin J. Silk Doctoral Scholarship
• G. Mark Curry Doctoral Scholarship
• George E. Connell Graduate Scholarship
• John F. Rankin Doctoral Scholarship
• Professor Al Mikalachki PhD Research Fund
• S. Chum Torno PhD Scholarship
• The Berdie & Irvin Cohen Fund for Doctoral Business Scholarship

A variety of other scholarships and loan options exist, such as:

• Western University (Canada)
• American Association of University Women
• Universities Canada
• Canada Student Loan Program
• Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE)
• Department of Foreign Affairs (Canada)
• Department of Education (USA)
• Financial Aid (USA)
• International Council for Canadian Studies
• Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)

Tuition and Fees

All PhD students must register and pay tuition and fees three times during the academic year (September, January and May). Tuition is set by Western University and is subject to change each year.

Average Cost of Living

Below is a summary on the costs associated with living in London and in other Canadian cities.

Affordability Calculator

The Graduate Student Affordability Calculator is a tool intended to provide an accurate estimate of how much money is needed to pay for tuition, fees, housing, food, and many other necessities for a 12-month (three term) academic year.

Funding Partners

Ivey has also partnered with the BMO Bank of Montreal and TD Canada Trust to create loan packages for Ivey PhD students. Each institution has designated one London branch to handle all Ivey PhD loans. Not all students are eligible, so more information should be obtained as below:

Other Resources for International Student Financing

There are many additional sources that international candidates should explore for external financing options. Helpful resources include:

• Government of Canada – International Student Scholarships
• Indian Association for Canadian Studies
• scholars4dev - Scholarships 4 Students From Developing Countries
• Canadian Embassies  sometimes administer scholarships to international students (i.e. Commonwealth Scholarships) that resulted out of an agreement between Canada and another country
• US students may apply to programs through the Federal Student Aid.

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Average PhD Financial Support

The average PhD financial support consists of a combination of internal awards, external awards, research stipends, and employment earnings (e.g. teaching assistantships, research assistantships). A static summary of PhD financial support data by Faculty is shown below. Images can be enlarged in a different tab for an improved viewing experience.

Department and University Information

Graduate and postdoctoral studies.

School of Graduate Studies

Graduate funding at the university of toronto.

In the Fall of 2022, the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) struck the SGS Graduate Funding Working Group. Chaired by Dr. Joshua Barker, Vice-Provost, Graduate Research and Education and Dean of SGS, the working group was formed to collectively enhance understanding of the graduate funding landscape at the University of Toronto (U of T) and identify strategic recommendations to address ongoing issues related to graduate funding and improve alignment and transparency across the University, where possible. (photo by University of Toronto)

Overview of Graduate Funding at University of Toronto

SGS Graduate Funding Working Group

A Community-wide Approach: Considerations & Recommendations for Enhancing Graduate Funding Practices

1. overview of graduate funding at university of toronto, sgs graduate funding working group school of graduate studies fall 2023, table of contents.

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) regularly conducts a survey titled the Graduate Student Experience in the Research University (gradSERU), to collect feedback about graduate students’ experiences at the institution. The survey seeks graduate student perspectives on various topics related to student experience, including reasons for selecting University of Toronto (U of T), satisfaction rates, research and educational experience, health and wellness, and financial support, among others. Results of the gradSERU survey assist SGS in understanding student needs and in identifying areas for improvement in programming, services, and support resources. By agreeing to conduct the gradSERU survey, U of T became part of the SERU consortium, a collective of international peer institutions that also administer the SERU survey consistently. Through membership in the SERU consortium, U of T can assess survey results in relation to the aggregate results of other leading research institutions in the network.   

A review of the 2021 gradSERU results revealed a concerning trend in relation to graduate student funding at U of T: graduate students in research-stream programs at U of T reported the lowest levels of satisfaction with financial support compared to all other peer institutions in the SERU network. 1 In addition, U of T research-stream graduate students were among the most concerned with costs of education, housing expenses, and ability to pay off debts upon completion of their programs. 2 Moreover, they also suggested that the level of financial support received had impacted their studies, with 37% indicating inadequate financial support as a significant obstacle to their academic progress. 3   

In response to these results, SGS established in the Fall of 2022 the Graduate Funding Working Group – composed of Vice-Provosts, Associate Deans and Vice-Deans Graduate, graduate faculty members, graduate students, and staff from graduate education, financial aid and awards, and planning and budget offices. The working group was created to strengthen understanding of the graduate funding landscape at U of T by engaging in a variety of measures, including: reviewing current policies and practices in graduate student funding across the institution; exploring student experience data, current issues, and associated implications for all stakeholders; assessing U of T’s funding support in relation to peer institutions in Canada and abroad; and identifying existing institutional levers for improving graduate student funding levels. Through the review of relevant institutional data and robust discussions, the working group aimed to identify a series of funding considerations and strategic recommendations that academic divisions and graduate units could employ to attract and retain talented students and establish best practices to support students during the course of their programs. Group discussions were framed around the core goals of improving equity, enhancing competitiveness with peer institutions, elevating graduate student experiences, increasing clarity and transparency around graduate funding, and supporting the SGS mission of promoting University-wide excellence in graduate education and research. 

This comprehensive report was created in response to the Working Group’s recommendation to summarize the insights gained through this cross-campus collaboration and develop an accessible institutional resource that can help the U of T community to increase their knowledge and understanding of graduate funding. The document provides a broad overview of the current state of graduate funding in Canada, an outline of graduate funding policies and practices within U of T, and the challenges associated with these practices in a decentralized context. By providing this comprehensive overview, we hope to illustrate the possibilities, challenges, and limitations for improving graduate funding at U of T.  

Canada is at an inflection point for research funding. 4,5 Research investment in Canadian institutions is not keeping pace with that of peer nations, as stated in a recent U15 Canada press release: “…Peer countries like the United States, Germany, and the UK are making game-changing investments to advance knowledge and develop the highly qualified talent that underpins all efforts to build a better future.” 6 A lack of significant investment has also meant that the value and number of tri-council research scholarships and fellowships (e.g., NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR) for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers has remained relatively static over the past twenty years, 7, 8 and that the level of funding through scholarships has not risen with the cost of living or kept up with global graduate-trainee funding trends. 9 A recent report from the Advisory Panel on the Federal Research Support System also suggests that insufficient funding in the Canadian research system restricts the ability to attract, train, and retain the brightest, most talented students, both from within Canada and abroad. 10 Anecdotal evidence further supports this finding, with some Canadian students reporting that they opted to complete doctoral programs in the United States due, in part, to what they perceived to be a better graduate funding package. 11    

The challenge of providing competitive funding packages is particularly pronounced in the U of T context. As many of our disciplines (and the University more broadly) garner elite global reputations, 12 the University finds itself increasingly in direct competition for the world’s best students with some of the top institutions worldwide. For instance, the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject ranked U of T in the top 25 in 34 subjects, recognizing U of T alongside a select group of schools including Cambridge University, Harvard University, University of Oxford, Stanford University, and University of California, Berkeley. 13 While it is difficult to establish dollar-for-dollar funding package comparisons for a number of reasons, 14 feedback from graduate chairs and administrators suggests that current funding levels at U of T make it difficult to compete with these institutions for top talent. The challenge is acute when peer programs are situated in privately-funded universities or in publicly-funded institutions that have made significant increases to their funding packages or operate in lower-cost markets. In this environment, it is more important than ever that graduate units engage in ongoing assessment of their funding policies and practices vis-à-vis their discipline-specific peers.  

While funding is important for attracting top talent, it is also critical to student success in our programs. A recent study of 1,305 graduate students in Canada found that financial stress was a significant concern, with students worried about low wages, affordability, and costs of living, as well as the debts incurred during graduate studies. 15 The gradSERU 2021 survey indicates that graduate students at U of T share these concerns. 16 Similarly, recent discipline-specific analyses have found that current graduate funding stipends do not adequately cover the cost of living expenses in Toronto, one of the most expensive cities to live in Canada. 17,18 To make ends meet, many students take on loans, rely on personal savings or support from family members, or seek out additional employment opportunities, 19,20 straining their mental health and compromising their progress through their programs. Affordability challenges can be exacerbated for international graduate students as they can have increased educational costs and are ineligible to apply for some of the major awards available to domestic students, including tri-agency scholarships. Graduate chairs anecdotally report that at an aggregate level such concerns can also negatively impact the overall climate in a department, which in turn damages student-faculty relationships.  

Together, these considerations demonstrate an urgent need to directly address the challenges of appropriate and sustainable funding supports for graduate students. It is a particularly important issue given the critical role graduate students play in enhancing the University’s research prowess and reputation on the international stage. Every year, U of T awards degrees to ~850 PhD students and another ~1,375 research master’s students. Many of these students contribute substantially to the University’s research productivity through their publications and other achievements. They are also some of the University’s most important ambassadors for its research mission in academic institutions across Canada and around the world, as well as in industry and government. Most students will look back on their graduate experience as having defined their subsequent life trajectories. It is imperative that they are given an optimal experience while they are here. 

Despite a common desire among virtually all University stakeholders to improve graduate funding, there are significant hurdles to be overcome. As we discuss below, the University relies heavily on government support to sustain its graduate student funding packages and this support has been flatlined for many years. While we must continue with our robust advocacy to government on this front, we must also do what we can to make better use of existing resources. This will require concerted efforts by all levels of the graduate community – academic divisions, institutional administration, graduate units, faculty members, and graduate students – to work cooperatively and coherently with one another to improve graduate student funding practices overall, while also acting within their own domain to identify available resources, use them efficiently, and deploy them to maximize graduate student funding possibilities. To do so, it is imperative that we develop a shared understanding of the policies, practices, and sources of graduate funding as they currently exist, as well as the levers we have at our disposal for making changes going forward.

At U of T, the overarching principles pertaining to graduate funding come from the Governing Council policy on Student Financial Support , which states that “no student offered admission to a program at the University of Toronto should be unable to enter or complete the program due to lack of financial means.” 21 Under this policy, access to financial supports for students is paramount and is considered to include restricted funds, funds comprising the Ontario Student Opportunities Trust Fund (OSOTF), or funds allocated through the operating budget of the University, including awards outlined in the Policy on Student Awards . Examples of financial support for students include grants, bursaries, scholarships, loan programs negotiated by the University with other financial institutions, and graduate teaching and research assistantships. 

Through this policy, Governing Council provides general financial support and resource parameters according to a student’s status (e.g., full-time/part-time, domestic/international) and the type of program in which a student is enrolled (undergraduate programs, professional programs, and doctoral-stream programs). At the graduate level, the policy outlines the goal of providing full-time doctoral-stream students with multi-year packages of funding support that are competitive with the financial support offered by peer institutions. For professional graduate programs, the policy requires students to self-fund and/or seek financial support from the Ontario Student Assistance Plan (OSAP), with any remaining unmet financial need by OSAP to be addressed through a variety of grants or other institutionally negotiated loan programs.  

Although Governing Council sets the overall University policy, the processes for determining availability, composition, sources, and annual amount of graduate funding over the span of a student’s enrollment in a given program are not uniform across the institution. Instead, guided by the policy on Student Financial Support and the University’s annual operating budget 22 (based on the University’s strategic priorities), graduate funding levels are predominantly determined by academic leadership in each of the academic divisions and the corresponding graduate units . 23 Funding levels are based on a unique combination of factors, including but not limited to, academic division budgets, student recruitment, research foci and needs of faculty members, primary investigator/supervisor grants, program enrollment, time to degree completion, and other available resources. As a result, the amount of each program’s funding, the composition of the funding package, and the number of years in which funding is offered, vary across the University (within specific institutionally-established constraints). In addition, graduate students are expected to play an active role in funding their graduate studies by applying for major scholarships (e.g., NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR), pursuing research or teaching assistantships, and seeking additional financial support opportunities in their field of research (e.g., external grants, fellowships).  

The role of SGS in graduate funding is to serve as a resource for academic divisions and graduate units by: 

• providing best practices for internal and external communication regarding graduate funding;  
• ensuring funding decisions are in alignment with the University’s strategic priorities;  
• assisting in the coordination of funding levels across graduate units on an ad-hoc basis; 
• liaising with Labour Relations regarding teaching assistantship collective agreements as well as with the graduate community to ensure compliance with collective agreements in relation to employment income; and  
• acting as an avenue for students to escalate concerns or issues related to their own graduate funding packages in the event that their concerns were unable to be addressed at the graduate unit and academic division levels. 

SGS also conducts institution-wide research to assess issues and experiences pertinent to graduate students – including graduate funding – and strives to provide up-to-date data to graduate units and academic divisions to guide decision-making. In addition, as a central service for graduate studies, it adjudicates and disburses over $70 million annually for external and internal graduate and postdoctoral awards.  

The Funding Package: Base Funding Commitment vs. Actual Net Income  

Full-time PhD-stream students typically make up what is known as the funded cohort at the University – a group of students enrolled in a graduate program for whom there is an institutional commitment to provide funding packages throughout the duration of their published program length. In addition to programs in the funded cohort, there are also some programs outside of the funded cohort that provide partial funding – in both duration and levels of funding – to the students in their programs.  

When developing funding packages, most graduate units articulate an overall base funding commitment to all students enrolled in the program. For the purpose of this report (except where noted), base funding refers to a graduate unit’s minimum funding commitment to each student per year, including tuition costs and annual living stipend, during the funded portion of the program (e.g., first 4 or 5 years of a PhD). Base funding information is communicated to students at the time of admission and on an annual basis thereafter. Figure 1 demonstrates the average base funding packages offered by SGS Divisions in 2022-2023, excluding tuition support.  

Figure 1: Average Base Funding Packages for Funded Doctoral Programs by SGS Divisions in 2022-2023

A base funding commitment limited to the published, expected length of a program can be problematic, as many students extend their studies beyond the recommended time frame for a number of reasons, including life circumstances and events, research and teaching responsibilities, preparation for an unpredictable and highly competitive job market, the structure and/or culture of the program, or unanticipated challenges in the research phase. As a result, students may be left without guaranteed income and may elect to undertake additional paid work (e.g., TAships/instructorships, outside employment) that can further delay their academic progress in the latter years of their research programs. This issue must be reviewed and addressed moving forward. 

Although base funding is a minimum funding commitment communicated to prospective and current students, many students exceed this level of funding on an annual basis due to income earned through research or teaching assistantships, fellowships, internal and external awards, and other activities. Figure 2 provides an example of annual net income earned by PhD students (year 1-4) in 2020-2021, which is equal to their total university earnings less their tuition fees. When comparing average income rates in Figure 1 and Figure 2, students earned approximately $6,500-$15,000 more from University sources than the amount specified for their base funding commitment.  

Figure 2: Average Actual Net Income – PhD students (Year 1-4) in 2020-2021 24

For some individual students, actual net income can be significantly higher than the funding earned by peers in their program. For example, U of T data shows that a very limited number of PhD students have attained a maximum net income above $125,000. However, it is important to note that these substantial income amounts are not representative of the earnings of the majority of graduate students at the University. Specifically, across all four SGS Divisions, PhD students (Years 1-4) in the 10 th percentile have a net income of $18,052-$21,691, while PhD students in the 50 th percentile have a net income of $26,489-$33,287, and those in the 90 th percentile have a net income of $42,859-$51,546.  

As a result of these funding levels, most graduate students report struggling to cover basic expenses (e.g., housing, groceries, transportation) with the income from their current funding packages. In fact, in the 2021 gradSERU survey, 43.0% of doctoral students at U of T were concerned they would not have enough funds to cover the cost of housing and 16.1% were concerned that their food might run out before they received funds to purchase more groceries. When accounting for year of study, these percentages remained similar for PhD students within and beyond the funded cohort years (i.e., those with base funding packages and those without), suggesting the issue relates to both the amount and length of funding packages. Further, the percentage of graduate students with cost-of-living concerns remains very high when including the perspectives of research-stream master’s students, with 40.9% graduate students (i.e., doctoral and research-stream master’s) anxious about housing costs and 15.9% concerned about food insecurity. When comparing these data points against peer institutions in the gradSERU consortium, U of T graduate students were on par with peers regarding concerns about food insecurity, but stood out with respect to worries about housing expenses (see Figure 3 ).  

Figure 3: Research-Stream Graduate Students’ Food & Housing Security Financial Concerns

In an effort to address student needs, graduate units have increased graduate funding packages in recent years, though it is evident these efforts have not always kept pace with rising costs. Figure 4 illustrates the increases in average PhD funding against the rising consumer price index and average monthly cost to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto. As evidenced in Figure 4 , the average monthly cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Toronto in 2022 was approximately $1,527 ($18,324 annually). When comparing the cost of housing against the average annual base funding amount in 2022, students were left with only $3,200 to cover remaining expenses.  

In response to the discrepancies between funding levels and costs of living, many students seek supplementary employment to bolster their income. For example, though full-time students are expected to engage in their studies on a full-time basis and make timely progress toward program milestones, a recent survey of graduate students in Canada suggests 55.6% of respondents have employment outside of their studies, with 36.3% of those students working between 5-20 hours per week. 25 Anecdotal evidence from graduate chairs and faculty suggests the need to secure additional employment outside of one’s studies is amplified for students beyond the funded cohort years (i.e., years 5+).  

Taking on additional employment outside of graduate studies can be a significant obstacle to students’ academic progress, yet many students feel they must do so to supplement their funding package and support their financial well-being. While the monitoring of students’ hours of employment outside of the University should not be within the University’s purview, the University should endeavour to establish structures and practices to ensure graduate students are able to make full-time, satisfactory progress towards the completion of their graduate degrees, and consequently, improve time-to-completion rates. 26   

In sum, as the impacts of inflation continue to be felt, equitable access to affordable, high-quality graduate education will remain a significant concern, both for current and prospective graduate students, and for all academic leaders involved in funding-related decisions. 

Figure 4: Average U of T PhD Funding vs. Average Monthly Rent for One-Bedroom Apartment and 2018-2022 Ontario Consumer Price Index 27

The Funding Package: Eligible Sources of Funds  

The standard graduate funding package typically comprises one or more of the four components detailed in Figure 5 :  

• University of Toronto Fellowships (UTF), which are derived from the operating budget of the University, primarily composed of tuition revenues and government operating grants;  
• graduate awards, which are comprised of internal awards (e.g., funded from operating and restricted funds from donations) and external awards (e.g., scholarships or research awards funded by the Federal or Provincial governments, primary investigator/supervisor grants, or awards funded by industry);  
• employment income (e.g., teaching assistantships, graduate assistantships, and course instructorships allocated from operating budgets); 29 and,  
• research assistantships and research fellowships available through primary investigator/supervisor research grants.  

Figure 5: Sources of Funding Packages – Conceptual Model

As U of T is a publicly funded institution, the largest components of graduate student funding levels are external to the University (i.e., government scholarships, government research grants to faculty, and tri-agency awards), which presents significant challenges as graduate units aim to increase graduate student funding levels. Without meaningful increases to the value and number of governmental scholarships and research grants over the past twenty years, the University has had to compensate for the gaps in funding with operating resources (see Figure 6 ). For instance, in 2021-2022, the University provided $365.4 million in financial support to graduate students, including $138 million in fellowships and awards, $83 million in teaching assistantships, $31 million in research stipends from operating budgets, $73 million in external research stipends, and $40 million in external awards. 30 Figure 6b displays the same chart using inflation-adjusted dollars, which demonstrates that while average base funding amounts have slightly increased over time, government-funded scholarships have decreased. For the government-funded scholarships available, research suggests that international students and students from equity-deserving groups face additional barriers in attaining external awards to supplement graduate unit funding packages, including eligibility requirements, evaluation criteria, and a lack of representation among those who obtain federal awards. 31  

In addition to these challenges, some academic divisions and graduate units must also operate under budgetary constraints, which further limits increases to funding packages.  

Figure 6: Average U of T PhD Funding Package vs. Government-funded Scholarships

Figure 6b: Average U of T PhD Funding Package vs. Government-funded Scholarships in Inflation-Adjusted Dollars

In some cases, students in the funded cohort will have secured significant fellowships or scholarships from external agencies recognized by the University, such as federal or provincial awards, that may be considered eligible to offset or replace the University’s guaranteed funding commitment. 33 Outside of University-recognized awards, graduate units are responsible for determining which additional sources of external funding can or cannot be included in their funding packages based on three pieces of central guidance: Governing Council policy, an SGS Decanal Memo issued in 2017, 34 and the SGS Admissions Manual. Under this guidance, graduate units and students are not permitted to waive the University’s funding commitment, which restricts students from opting to self-fund and graduate units from including funds from a third-party agency that has not been approved by SGS or is not recognized by the University. It also indicates that units are permitted to offer prospective students admission on the condition of securing external funding only when there is an approved Memorandum of Understanding in place with the University and the external agency, or when the external agency is approved by SGS. In circumstances where a prospective student has secured funding from an external agency, it is important to reaffirm admissions standards to ensure all students entering the University are appropriately prepared for the rigours and expectations of graduate research and education. In addition, graduate units should have contingency plans in place should the external funds cease to exist or be discontinued at any time during a student’s program. 

External awards or financial support from industry groups on an ad-hoc basis can also pose a challenge for graduate units when developing funding packages for their students. Graduate units are restricted from approving industry fully-funding individual students, and instead, are encouraged to consider modernizing the approach to industry funding by developing longer-term partnerships to generate funding opportunities for future students in their programs. As a whole, policies and guidelines related to funding through personal or external sources are in place to ensure fair and equitable access to graduate studies. 

In cases where the student is entering the program with an external funding source (e.g., fellowship from an approved agency), the amount of funding must be equal to or greater than the base funding commitment offered by the graduate unit. If the amount is less than the base funding commitment, the graduate unit or primary investigator/supervisor is responsible for providing the remaining funds. Further, if the funding received through an approved or recognized agency ceases prior to the expected funding time frame, the graduate unit or primary investigator/supervisor is responsible for providing the base funding commitment for the remainder of the unit’s typical funding duration (e.g., end of the fourth year of the PhD).  

The Funding Package: Offsetting Unit Operating Support and Top-Ups for External Awards    

External awards can have a significant influence on the composition of a student’s funding package. When a student receives an external award, it can either augment or replace some or all of the base commitment. For example, when a student secures an internal or external award(s) greater than the base funding commitment, the award value will offset the base funding, usually dollar for dollar. As a result, the students’ funding package often does not change significantly if they earn these awards (i.e., the award is not fully additive to the base funding commitment).  

However, some units offer additive funding to students whose external awards might replace a portion of their funding, as a reward to students for their achievement and as an incentive for students to continue applying for external awards. For instance, if a student obtains a $50,000 award in a unit where the base funding commitment is $35,000, the full base funding commitment is not required by the unit, but the unit may still provide an additional $5,000 top-up of funding to the student, who will therefore receive $55,000 of funding for the duration of the award. 35   

The practice of external funding offsetting the base funding commitment from a graduate unit is not always well received by students, who otherwise may have expected their external award to be fully additive to their base funding package (e.g., $85,000 in the example above). However, the practice is an important tool in ensuring equity and accountability across the institution, as the funding that is replaced by the award in a student’s package can in turn be re-allocated to other students to increase their packages or bring in an additional student. This is one important way to ensure that graduate education is equitable and accessible to a diverse student population, which in turn enhances the graduate student experience for all students. Nevertheless, these practices continue to be a significant source of frustration for students when they feel they are not appropriately recognized for obtaining highly competitive external awards. 

Funding by Program Type    

While the Governing Council policy clearly articulates that doctoral-stream students must be offered funding, the funding of research-based master’s programs can differ across the University, as it is up to the discretion of the academic divisions or graduate units whether each master’s program constitutes the necessary route to admission for the doctoral program and therefore, should or should not receive partial or full graduate funding. In some instances, graduate units consider their master’s programs to be terminal or quasi-professional and do not provide funding packages to these programs, instead funding their cognate PhD programs for an extra year (e.g., 5 years). In other cases, research-based master’s programs are considered an important step in preparing for the doctoral program and are partially or fully funded. To make this funding determination, it is important for academic divisions and graduate units to clarify the purpose, learning objectives, and outcomes of each master’s program, taking into account the conversion rates from master’s to doctoral-stream.  

Some graduate units also offer “flex-time” research-based PhD programs, which allow practicing professionals to earn a PhD on a flexible basis (i.e., full-time in the first four years, part-time thereafter); these programs are also unfunded. Further, a few graduate units have doctoral programs that have some components of research-based doctorates but are considered professional in nature, and as a result fall into the unfunded category, though funding may be made available during the course of the program (i.e., EdD at OISE, DMA in Music, DN in Nursing, and DrPH from Dalla Lana School of Public Health). Given the variety in graduate level education, it is critical for graduate units to assess the aims of their programs and ensure they align with the rationale for providing funding packages. 

Levers for Increasing Funding  

There are a number of existing levers that may be engaged by the University, academic divisions, graduate units, faculty members, and students to collectively increase the financial support available for graduate research and education, including:  

• Increased lobbying of government and external agencies in a strategic and coordinated manner; 
• Review and reallocation of University operating funds;  
• Review and optimization of resources available in academic division budgets; 
• Enhanced contributions from primary investigator/supervisor grants;  
• Leveraging of existing industry funding and development of new streams of industry funding; 
• Leveraging of restricted funds for internal graduate awards; 
• Amplification of fundraising efforts to create or enhance awards, bursaries, or scholarships; and, 
• Strengthening incentives for students to seek out and apply for external awards.   

Temetry Faculty of Medicine (TFoM) provides an excellent example of an academic division at U of T using the levers available to significantly increase graduate student stipends over a short period of time. As recently as 2019, TFoM offered research-stream graduate students an annual stipend of $28,000. 36 Since then, in consultation with graduate students, the faculty created a three-year plan to increase the annual funding available to students in research-stream programs. 37 One of the key levers identified by TFoM for increasing funding according to the three-year plan was enhanced contributions from primary investigator/supervisor grants to offset the additional financial support provided to students in research-stream programs. 38 By engaging this lever, TFoM was able to increase their annual stipend by over $10,000. In the 2023-2024 academic year, research-stream master’s students will receive an annual stipend of $37,000, while doctoral students will be offered $40,000. 39 These graduate student stipends will be the highest in Canada amongst similar degrees and will help TFoM attract top talent and strengthen competition with peer institutions in the United States and abroad. 40 In addition to significant increases in graduate stipends, the faculty provides over seventy entrance scholarships and remains committed to discovering additional sources of funding to enhance student financial support. 41   

Emergence of Decentralized Funding Practices and Associated Challenges  

In keeping with its overall budget model, U of T has a decentralized approach to the administration of graduate funding, meaning that graduate funding is managed by leadership in academic divisions and individual graduate units. An approach of this nature has several benefits for a large institution, such as the capacity to leverage discipline-specific knowledge to guide funding-related decisions, the ability to optimize packages according to the available sources of funding in each graduate unit, the opportunity to include funds generated through primary investigator/supervisor grants, and the potential for increased responsiveness to changes in funding levels and practices at peer institutions (which can differ based on academic discipline). Despite these benefits, decentralized practices can also create challenges in funding levels, consistency in application, equity, and communications. 

In terms of funding levels, this report illustrates the significant variability across graduate units and SGS Divisions. For example, in 2022-2023, the base funding packages for doctoral-stream programs ranged from $25,554-$33,054 in Division I (Humanities), $25,054-$40,054 in Division II (Social Sciences), $26,054-$40,200 in Division III (Physical Sciences), and $25,304-$35,676 in Division IV (Life Sciences), including the full cost of tuition and living stipends. Based on these ranges, the highest discrepancy between base funding packages is $15,000. Although in dollar terms these base funding packages may be among some of the largest offered in Canada, they are not always competitive in a high-cost market like Toronto where basic living expenses (e.g., housing, hydro, transportation, leisure activities) can exceed $36,000 per year. 42 To alleviate students’ financial concerns and enhance competitiveness with other institutions, graduate units and academic divisions must assess current funding practices to identify and optimize the resources and levers available for graduate funding, as well as developing a standard process for review and renewal of graduate funding levels.  

The University’s decentralized structure has also produced uneven funding practices across graduate units. A particularly significant example is observed in the integration of major scholarships into funding packages and whether the scholarships are treated as additive or duplicative. Some units offer substantial top-up compensation (e.g., $9,000) above the base funding amount for winning a major award, such as an NSERC or SSHRC (e.g., Canada Graduate Scholarship: Doctoral, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship), while others offer modest top-ups for the same award ($3,000), or forego top-ups altogether. In another approach, some units prefer not to offer top-ups at all, but instead provide funding support for a year beyond the typical funding duration (e.g., cover the cost of tuition and provide additional $2,000). There are also units where the value of the scholarship only replaces the living stipend portion of the funding package, and the student receives the full scholarship, plus tuition, and a $5,000 top-up.  

Variability in top-up practices and replacement funding can lead to confusion, stress, and frustration for students as they attempt to navigate which sources of funding can be additive to the base funding package and ensure they have sufficient and sustainable funding to support their academic pursuits. Inconsistent top-up policies can also disincentivize students and by extension, their supervisors, from seeking external sources of financial support, as the effort required to find opportunities and develop a competitive application can be disproportionate to the reward. In light of these concerns, academic divisions and graduate units must develop a more principled and coordinated approach to top-ups, with stronger incentives for students to seek external awards. It is imperative that students feel adequately rewarded for the successful attainment of external funding.  

At times, decentralization can also complicate the disbursement of funds to students because large amounts of it are administered locally by various entities rather than centrally by the University. While some University-wide awards and external sponsorships involve institutional administration, most graduate funding is handled through diverse methods and systems. This leads to challenges such as transparency, payment-deadline adherence, monitoring, reporting, and timely disbursements. For example, some students receive funding packages (including full tuition coverage) over 12 equal monthly installments, which means they may not have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees by the payment deadline. A lack of streamlined processes for disbursement of funds can contribute to student stress, missed deadlines that result in unnecessary fees, overpayment and subsequent pay-back, and/or late reception of income.  

Further, U of T also struggles with a paucity of clear, overarching institutional knowledge related to funding practices and the effects of turnover of academic leadership, something that is common in higher education institutions. Without comprehensive institutional knowledge and subsequent education, it is difficult for academic leaders to fully grasp the landscape of funding in the University, understand possibilities and mechanisms to improve funding, and implement meaningful change in their academic divisions or graduate units within the time constraints of a Decanal or Chair term. In addition, transparent communication regarding graduate funding and financial support is a major challenge across all aspects of decentralized funding practices.  

In order to enhance transparency, academic leadership and graduate administrators need to identify and clearly articulate the overarching framework of graduate funding and associated practices within their purview (e.g., top-up practices), be honest with prospective and current students about actual annual income and the time frame of the degree (e.g., normative time to degree), and seek alignment with other units in the University on funding terminology and practices, where possible and feasible.  

The U of T is consistently ranked among the top ten public universities worldwide, and has an international reputation for research excellence, innovation, and graduate education. Graduate students are critical to this success. If the University is to maintain and enhance its competitiveness with peer institutions, it must be able to attract and retain the most talented students, and make sure that they feel supported throughout their graduate journeys, as they engage in cutting-edge research and training. We hope that improving financial support will have knock-on benefits, including improved graduate student mental health, productive faculty-student relationships, and the recruitment of an increasingly diverse student population.

Stakeholders across the graduate community recognize that they must take action to address the current flatlining of government funding for graduate research and education and to optimize the available resources to increase support for graduate students. We hope that this report provides a roadmap of graduate funding at U of T and demonstrates a comprehensive overview of possibilities, challenges, and limitations for improving graduate funding. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including graduate students, faculty members, administrators, and academic leadership, to acknowledge the scope of their influence in enhancing graduate funding and to make a concerted effort to execute their responsibilities. It is only through this collaborative, University-wide approach, that we can ensure a positive, fulfilling, and supportive graduate community, built upon a mutual commitment to fostering success in graduate research and education.

1 Sourced from 2021 gradSERU survey . 2 2021 gradSERU. 3 2021 gradSERU. 4 Langford, W., & Carstairs, C. (2023). The high cost of inadequate funding for grad students. University Affairs . 5 U15 Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance Pre-Budget Consultation in Advance of the 2023 budget . 6 U15 Canada Statement (March 28, 2023): U15 Canada is deeply concerned about lagging research investments in Canada, sees hope in Bouchard report . 7 Langford et al. (2023). 8 U15 Canada Statement (March 28, 2023). 9 Sourced from the 2023 Report of the Advisory Panel on the Federal Research Support System prepared for the Government of Canada. 10 2023 Report of the Advisory Panel on the Federal Research Support System. 11 Buller, R. (2022). Funding disparities are pushing Canadians to enrol in U.S. doctoral programs. University Affairs . 12 Bresge, A. (2023). U of T scores top marks in QS World University Rankings by Subject. U of T News . 13 Bresge, A. (2023). 14 Including a reliance on publicly available information as well as contextual factors (e.g., costs of living in a specific city, increases or decreases to funding over time, funding structures and administration, and discipline-specific cognates). 15 Laframboise, S.J. et al. (2023). Analysis of financial challenges faced by graduate students in Canada. Biochemistry and Cell Biology , 00, 1-35. 16 2021 gradSERU: 49.5% of students reported being concerned, very concerned, or extremely concerned about being able to pay off loans. For cost of education (i.e., “how concerned are you about paying for your graduate/professional education next year?”), 40.6% said they were concerned, very concerned or extremely concerned. For food and housing security: 15.5% indicated it’s often or always true that they are worried about whether their food would run out before they got money to buy more, while 37.2% indicated it’s often or always true that they worried they wouldn’t have enough money to cover the cost of their housing. 13.9% said it’s often or always true that they are unable to pay all of the cost of their housing on time. 17 Sourced from Temerty Faculty of Medicine Graduate Representation Committee 2022-2023 Finance & Living Expense Report. 18 Langford et al. (2023). 19 GRC 2022-2023 Finance & Living Expense Report. 20 2021 gradSERU. 21 https://governingcouncil.utoronto.ca/secretariat/policies/student-financial-support-policy-april-30-1998 22 https://planningandbudget.utoronto.ca/operating-budget/ 23 https://sgs.calendar.utoronto.ca/programs-graduate-unit 24 Sourced from Student Accounts – Planning and Budget Office 25 Laframboise, S.J. et al. (2023). 26 https://cou.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/OCGS-Principles-for-Graduate-Study-at-Ontarios-Universities-October-2021.pdf 27 Average monthly cost of one-bedroom apartment in Toronto sourced from: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation 28 In an effort to increase graduate funding transparency, SGS began consistently collecting data and reporting on base funding packages in 2018. SGS has committed to sharing this data on a biennial reporting schedule. Institutional policy requires graduate units to publicly report base funding information on their websites on an annual basis. 29 Personal employment income outside of the examples listed does not count towards the funding package. 30 Sourced from: 2021-2022 Annual Report on Student Financial Support . Please note: the amounts above are listed in aggregate; a more specific breakdown of financial support can be found in the report. 31 Baskaran, S., et al. (2021). Improving the accessibility of Federal Graduate Research Awards in Canada. Journal of Science Policy & Governance, 18 (4). 32 In an effort to increase graduate funding transparency, SGS began consistently collecting data and reporting on base funding packages in 2018. SGS has committed to sharing this data on a biennial reporting schedule. Institutional policy requires graduate units to publicly report base funding information on their websites on an annual basis. 33 Examples of such scholarships include University Health Network, Athlete Assistance Program (Sport Canada), and CONACyT (Mexico). 34 SGS Decanal Memo: Guidelines for External Funding (April 2017) 35 Please see an example created by the Faculty of Arts & Science to illustrate the varying composition of funding packages and associated top-up practices. How Graduate Funding Works in A&S: https://www.artsci.utoronto.ca/graduate/graduate-funding/how-graduate-funding-works . Also included in the Appendices. 36 https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends 37 https://thevarsity.ca/2023/01/23/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends-for-2023-24-academic-year/#:~:text=For%20students%20enrolled%20in%20a,will%20be%20%2440%2C000%20per%20year. 38 https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends 39 https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends 40 https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends 41 https://temertymedicine.utoronto.ca/news/temerty-medicine-increases-graduate-student-stipends 42 https://studentlife.utoronto.ca/task/living-costs-in-toronto/

Download a PDF copy of the report

2. A Community-wide Approach: Considerations & Recommendations for Enhancing Graduate Funding Practices

In the Fall of 2022, the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) struck the SGS Graduate Funding Working Group. Chaired by Dr. Joshua Barker, Vice-Provost, Graduate Research and Education and Dean of SGS, the working group was formed to collectively enhance understanding of the graduate funding landscape at the University of Toronto (U of T) and identify a series of funding considerations and strategic recommendations that academic divisions and graduate units could employ to attract and retain talented students and engage in best practices to support students throughout the course of their graduate programs. 

The SGS Graduate Funding Working Group membership included senior academic and administrative leadership, University counsel, graduate students, and institutional administrators across the three campuses: 

• Joshua Barker (Chair), Dean, School of Graduate Studies, Vice-Provost, Graduate Research and Education 
• Dwayne Benjamin, Vice-Provost, Strategic Enrolment Management 
• Suzanne Cadarette, Associate Professor, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy 
• Rachael Ferenbok, Associate University Counsel 
• Jessica Finlayson, Financial Officer, Graduate Operations, Faculty of Arts & Science 
• Dionne Gesink, Associate Dean, Academic Affairs, Dalla Lana School of Public Health 
• Antoinette Handley, Vice-Dean, Graduate Education, Faculty of Arts & Science 
• Mindy Harris, Director, Academic Programs & Operations, OISE 
• Sarfaroz Niyozov, Acting Associate Dean, Programs, OISE 
• Normand Labrie, Associate Dean, Programs, OISE 
• Rene Harrison, Vice-Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, UTSC 
• Tina Keshavarzian, Graduate Student, Temerty Faculty of Medicine 
• Kelly Lyons, Acting Vice-Dean, Research and Program Innovation 
• Jeff Packman, Associate Dean, Graduate Education, Music 
• Ajay Rao, Vice-Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Affairs, UTM 
• Mike Snowdon, Manager, Academic Planning & Analysis, Planning and Budget 
• Julie Audet, Vice-Dean, Graduate Studies, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering 
• Craig Steeves, Acting Vice-Dean, Graduate Studies, Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering 
• Alexie Tcheuyap, Associate Vice-President and Vice-Provost, International Student Experience 
• Annabel Thornton, Graduate Student, Economics 
• Justin Nodwell, Vice-Dean, Research & Health Science Education, Temerty Faculty of Medicine 

The working group met five times over the course of the 2022-2023 academic year and engaged in a variety of measures to strengthen understanding of graduate funding and inform proposed recommendations, including: reviewing current policies and practices in graduate student funding across the institution; exploring student experience data, current issues, and associated implications for all stakeholders; assessing U of T’s funding support in relation to peer institutions in Canada and abroad; and identifying the existing institutional levers for improving graduate student funding levels. Through the review of data, synthesis of institutional knowledge, and subsequent discussions on funding practices, members of the working group were provided with an opportunity to reflect, develop strategies, and share best practices to improve graduate funding at the University. Throughout their discussions, working group members shared their deep concerns on the current state of graduate funding and emphasized the importance of building infrastructure to support coordination among academic divisions and graduate units. 

To capture the institutional knowledge of graduate funding at U of T created through the working group and provide a framework to guide funding-related decisions and practices moving forward, the working group developed three key outputs: 

• A comprehensive educational report that provides an overview of the current state of graduate funding in Canada, outlines policies and practices within U of T, and identifies the challenges and opportunities for graduate funding in a decentralized context. 
• A set of institution-wide funding considerations to facilitate alignment and interdisciplinary collaboration, where possible, and frame future graduate funding decision-making processes. 
• A list of recommendations that explore solutions, address ongoing issues related to graduate funding within graduate units and across the University more broadly, and identify the stakeholder responsible for stewarding the recommendations to fruition. 

The funding considerations and recommendations developed by the working group are designed with each stakeholder in mind and serve as a coordinated strategic approach to improving the infrastructure of graduate support. 

For the purpose of the report, funding considerations, and recommendations documents, the following key terms are defined as follows:

• Academic Divisions: The University’s academic programs are organized into 18 faculties and divisions (i.e., Academic Divisions). Within each Academic Division, there may be departments, colleges, centres, and institutes that provide further support for study and research in focused areas. A list of the 18 faculties and divisions can be found at the following website: Academic Divisions.  
• provides the central structure to house and support graduate programs; and 
• includes graduate faculty members, who may be drawn from multiple academic units, as well as graduate students, and administrative staff. Every graduate unit is assigned a specific budgetary academic unit (“budgetary home”) to act as its administrative and governance home. For a list of programs by graduate unit, visit the following website: Programs by Graduate Unit . 
• SGS Divisions: The School of Graduate Studies allocates graduate units into four broad categories: Division 1 – Humanities, Division 2 – Social Sciences, Division 3 – Physical Sciences, and Division 4 – Life Sciences. To determine which programs fall under each category, visit the following website: Programs by SGS Division .
• Base Funding : refers to a graduate unit’s minimum funding commitment to each student per year, including tuition costs and annual living stipend, during the funded portion of the program. 
• Funded cohort: refers to a group of students enrolled in a graduate program for whom there is an institutional commitment to provide funding packages throughout the duration of their published program length. 
• Top-Ups: When a student receives an award, it can either augment or replace some or all of the base funding commitment from the graduate unit, usually dollar for dollar. To reward students for their achievement, some units offer additive funding – referred to as top-ups – to students whose external awards might replace all or a portion of their funding. The practice of offering top-ups to students who receive awards varies across academic divisions and graduate units. 

There are several overarching themes that emerged from the discussions of the Graduate Funding Working Group that may assist in framing the funding considerations and recommendations:

• Graduate funding is an increasingly complex issue that requires urgent attention and a collaborative spirit by all stakeholders across the University to improve funding practices and provide appropriate and sustainable financial support to graduate students. Improvement of graduate funding is imperative to ensuring equity and access to graduate education and attracting the brightest, most talented students worldwide to our graduate programs. 
• There are significant constraints to improving graduate funding, but there are also existing institutional levers and resources that can be leveraged to strengthen financial support for graduate students . Academic divisions and graduate units must assess current funding practices to identify and optimize the resources available. 
• The determination of funding levels and accountability for meeting funding commitments should remain the responsibility of graduate units and academic divisions , however, it is recommended that steps be taken to increase alignment and coordination on graduate funding practices across the University. 
• It is necessary to enhance clarity, transparency, and “truth-in-advertising” about graduate funding through a variety of activities, including the provision of annual SGS-led education related to funding practices for all stakeholders (i.e., students, academic leaders, administrators) and clear, ongoing departmental and divisional communications. 
• Academic leadership and institutional administrators must prioritize timely, high-quality academic progress and support lower time-to-completion rates for graduate students to ensure students are funded to the completion of their research-stream graduate degrees. 

The following graduate funding considerations are not ranked. Instead, all considerations should be interpreted as equally important, and each consideration will be applied in different magnitudes across the recommendations of the working group.

• Providing support to enter and complete program. 
• Enhancing institutional competitiveness. 
• Promoting equity, access, and inclusion. 
• Recognizing merit. 
• Protecting academic freedom and integrity. 
• Encouraging academic progress toward degree completion. 
• Providing continuity and predictability of funding. 
• Considering student needs and personal financial circumstances. 
• Increasing transparency in funding practices for students and academic divisions. 
• Affirm decentralized approach – framed within an overarching coherent and holistic university-wide funding policy – to setting graduate student funding package levels and graduate unit accountability for meeting its funding commitments. 
• Reaffirm the principle that PhD programs need to be funded for the minimum program length. 
• Affirm principle of equity of access to funded programs (i.e., no direct or indirect self-funding) and affirm financial need is not a condition of graduate funding. 
• Review the Governing Council policy on Student Financial Support to determine if any updates are required. 
• SGS should conduct an environmental scan of the funding practices and associated communications of other universities to assess the competitiveness of U of T funding packages compared to peer institutions. 
• With guidance from SGS, academic divisions should review all master’s programs and assess the programs’ funding status, taking into account the conversion rate from master’s to PhD. 
• Fold regular review of research master’s funding by program type into the UTQAP process and update the list of research-stream programs in the Governing Council financial aid policy document. (The extant list is from 1998.) 
• SGS should undertake a review of the flex-time program status: Institute a working group to better understand the nature of the program, its rationale, uptake, and student and program outcomes. Ensure the working group includes people who have had experience with the flex-time PhD model. 
• Move away from monitoring graduate student income and toward a focus on academic progress to improve time-to-completion. 
• There should be a concerted and continuous effort by all academic divisions and units to ensure that students are making timely academic progress and completing their studies in an appropriate time frame as a means of enhancing funding available in years 1-5. 
• Academic divisions should review funding packages annually with consideration of core principles and available resources. 
• SGS should provide data and best practices advice to support these reviews and support improved communication about funding packages and top-ups. 
• SGS should hold an annual coordinating meeting for graduate/associate deans to report on academic divisional funding levels and top-up practices. 
• SGS, in collaboration with the University Registrar’s Office and Planning & Budget, should review Graduate Tuition Fees Assessment Practices and develop recommendations to explore per term billing and to address and clarify minimum degree fees and balance of degree fees issues and practices. 
• SGS should reinforce existing best practices and develop a set of guidelines for administrators regarding the disbursement of graduate funding, including the development of internal practices to review students’ funding upon completion to ensure stipend and tuition amounts disbursed are proportional to the period of registration and final tuition invoiced to the student. 
• SGS should work with Student Receivables & Accounting Office, Planning & Budget, and other stakeholders to develop a formal tracking mechanism to allow for increased transparency and accurate reporting when students have funding issued by a third-party sponsor (paid to Student Receivables) or by an external funding source (paid direct to student). 
• SGS, OVPRI, Government Relations, and Advancement should develop a coordinated approach to increase core components of graduate student funding (scholarships, grants, industry, etc.) and academic divisions and Advancement should determine targeted fundraising strategies to increase support for graduate research and education in their graduate units. 
• SGS and Planning & Budget should create an ad-hoc support team to assist academic divisions in optimizing the resources they have available for graduate student funding (e.g., restricted funds, PI contributions). Other offices across the University (e.g., University Registrar’s Office) should be consulted, as needed. 
• Academic divisions, in collaboration with SGS, should strengthen incentives for students to seek out award opportunities by developing a more principled approach to top-ups and enhancing education on the professional benefits and pedagogical purposes of external awards. Students should feel they are adequately rewarded for the successful attainment of external funding. 
• Academic divisions, in collaboration with graduate units, should examine their restricted funds and utilize available funds (or redeploy existing funds) to expand financial award opportunities for international students. 
• Academic divisions, in collaboration with graduate units, should continue to foster the University’s commitment to inclusive excellence and equitable access to graduate education by expanding financial award opportunities for graduate students from underrepresented groups.  
• SGS, in collaboration with an expert panel, should examine the SGS Tri-Agency algorithm and associated processes to increase standardization in application procedures, ensure a fair and rigorous assessment of applicants, and enhance competitiveness of U of T graduate students. 
• Affirm principles related to industry funding and ensure components of units’ funding packages are connected to students’ training and progress through the program. Contingency plans should be created by graduate units and academic divisions to ensure continuation of funding for individual students with external support, if issues or challenges arise that jeopardize their funding sources. 
• SGS should create a set of principle-driven and transparent criteria to assess eligible external funding sources. Criteria should include a review of factors such as the value and duration of support, demonstrated history of student support, potential risk to the institution, alignment with university’s academic mission/freedom, and principles of EDI. 
• SGS should review the current admissions policy, with attention to conditional offers based on securing funding from external funding sources. 
• SGS should enhance its communications about graduate student funding and provide an annual workshop on graduate funding for decision-makers. 
• SGS should collate best practices, develop templates, and offer guidance on funding-related communications to support graduate units. Graduate units should clearly communicate their funding and top-up practices on their websites, in their graduate student handbooks, and through an annual funding letter. 
• SGS should play a convening role in creating best practices/guidelines for all graduate funding-related communications, including template communications units can use. 
• SGS should create a working group to better understand and communicate the funding opportunities available for students in professional programs, as well as advise on the development of recognition programs and opportunities for students that honour their achievements and help them strengthen their CVs. 

MD/PhD Stipends

*Updated on August 18, 2023 for 2023-24 Academic Year

All direct-entry MD/PhD students receive financial support, starting January of their first-year and continuing until graduation, as long as they remain registered students in good standing. Current UofT MD students who are admitted to the MD/PhD Program begin receiving their stipend in September of their first year in the MD/PhD Program. Please note that the stipend does not directly pay tuition fees - students are responsible for paying tuition fees on their own. 

The MD/PhD programs supports full-time MD students at the minimum stipends listed below, based on year of entry.

While in full-time PhD studies, MD/PhD graduate supervisors/graduate units will share the cost of the student stipend. Graduate supervisors are expected to pay the living allowance set by their academic unit (minimum $18,000). This ensures that MD/PhD students are earning the same living allowance as their peers in their academic unit.

MD/PhD tuition is based on their year of entry into the MD/PhD Program. The MD/PhD tuition schedule can be found at https://studentaccount.utoronto.ca/

• Go to https://studentaccount.utoronto.ca/
• Under “Tuition and Fees” select current Fall/winter term
• Select Graduate Studies, School of
• Select “ Domestic Graduate Students (Ontario & Non-Ontario Resident) and Domestic Undergraduate Students (Ontario Resident) – Combined Second-entry Undergraduate/Master Degree ”  
• Go to the Table for MD/PhD. This year it is Table 12.

It is MD/PhD policy that the “Final Year Clerkship Stipend” is considered part of your 4 th  year MD/PhD stipend, much like a contribution from your graduate supervisor was part of your stipend during grad school.

International students are eligible for entry into the MD/PhD program and will receive the same funding package as domestic students. Their package will be based on domestic fees. International students will pay international student fees .

Stipends for MD/PhD Students in Full-Time Graduate Programs

Graduate Unit/Supervisor Contribution: graduate living stipend as set by academic unit (minimum of $18,000)

MD/PhD Contribution: MD/PhD tuition plus incidentals

MD/PhD students are not subject to the Faculty of Medicine Harmonized Base Funding Agreement . However, PI's supervising students in the GLSE must pay the living allowance listed for the current year.

MD/PhD Stipends payments can be very complex. If you are a graduate program administrator with questions about your MD/PhD student's stipend, please contact the PST Program Manager .

MD/PhD Stipend Top-Ups for Major Awards

The recommended MD/PhD stipend top-ups follow the guidelines and rules outlined in the FOM Harmonized Student Stipend Agreement . Please note that this agreement notes, "All awards that require student applications are eligible for a top-up from their supervisor."

During full-time PhD, all combination of awards valued over $2,000 are first applied to the supervisor's portion of the student stipend. Supervisor is responsible for top-up, according to the policies of their academic unit.

Any award value higher than supervisor's contribution will be applied towards the MD/PhD portion of the student stipend. A student, who receives award(s) exceeding the amount equivalent to the base funding and maximum top-up of $4,000, will not be eligible to receive a top-up for these award(s).

All MD/PhD students must report any awards received outside of their regular stipend to the MD/PhD office. This includes awards from the MD Program and OGS awards.

Typically, the total stipend paid to the student will be reduced by the amount of the award(s). If the award(s) exceeds the amount equivalent to the Base Stipend and Top-Up, the student will not be eligible to receive the Top-Up.

Failure to report an award could result in the loss of your stipend.

Bursaries do not need to be reported.

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• PhD Program

PhD Tuition and Funding

A&s tuition, fees & base funding package - 2023-24.

2023-24 full-time = $8,213.96  ($6,210.00 tuition + $2,003.96 mandatory incidental fees) 

International

• 2023-24 full-time = $8,969.96  ($6,210.00 tuition + $2,003.96 mandatory incidental fees + $756.00 UHIP)

PhD Program Funding

In 2001, the Faculty of Arts and Science introduced a base funding package for eligible graduate students. This package has increased substantially over time. The base funding package helps the Faculty to recruit outstanding students and allows these students to focus on their studies and complete their degrees in a timely manner.

Students are responsible for any course-related expenses, as well as payment of their tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change on an annual basis. In 2023-24, the tuition fee for full-time domestic PhD students is $8,213.96. Additional information is available on the Student Accounts website . 

The base funding package consists of a University of Toronto Fellowship (UTF) and a Research Assistant Stipend (RA Stipend). There is a possibility of top-ups from sources such as the Program-Level Fellowship.

More Information

Program-level fellowships (plfs).

PLFs are provided by Faculty of Arts and Science. For the 2023-24 academic year, the Faculty of Arts and Science is allocating $1,000 for each registered PhD and MA student. The distribution of funds is determined in consultation with graduate students each year. For the 2023-24 year, we will distribute 50% of allocated funds to MA and PhD students' base funding ($500 per MA and Year 1-5 PhD students) and the other 50% to Black, Indigenous, and other racialized MA and PhD students.

Research Assistantship (RA)

RA Position

Faculty members can hire students to assist with their research. Faculty members pay students from their research funds and in addition to base funding. RA Position is paid as a taxable T4 and involves hourly rates for your research-related work for a faculty member. It is paid as you are completing the work. There is a contract between a student and a faculty member outlining the specifics of this position.

RAship Stipend

PhD students receive an RA stipend of $800 included in the base-funding. The RA stipend helps students to connect with faculty members and their research. Consult your funding letter. RA Stipend is paid into your account by direct deposit in October. 

TAships play a very important role in the Centre’s educational mandate for both graduate and undergraduate students. Therefore, the decisions about TA assignments are made by the Centre’s director, both Associate Directors, with administrative support from Undergraduate Adminstrative Coordinator and Graduate Administrator. 

The hourly rates and the total number of TA hours are regulated through the university’s Collective Agreements with CUPE3902, Uni 1. The current agreement sets a limit of $7,755 to be counted towards base funding for students entering in year 1. Any TA earnings beyond this level will augment a graduate student's actual income, and cannot be offset by lower levels of financial support from other sources (UTF and RA).

TA Assignments, Contracts, and Training Timeline

• May:  The Subsequent Appointment System opens for students in Year 2 and beyond to declare whether they want to hold an appointment in the coming year, and to provide some details about the kind of TA-ship they want, and on which campus. 
• July: You will get a provisional TA assignment on the  TAship site . 
• July: for F/Y terms and in November for S term:  Any TA Job Posting  Applications  will be made available.
• August 11 for F/Y term and December 11 for S term:  You will receive your TA contract. 
• September 1:  Description of Duties and Allocation of Hours (DDAH) forms outlining TA duties and specifying the hours assigned to them, have to be confirmed by both the TA and course instructor on the  TAship Online System
• Questions regrading TA assignments at the St. George campus can be sent to  Colleen Osborn .  Questions regrading TA assignments at the UTM campus can be sent to   Sabrin Mohamed   Questions regrading TA assignments and DDAH forms at the UTSC campus can be sent to  Milene Neves  

How is your funding paid?

The stipend part of University of Toronto Fellowship payments are paid through direct deposit. To set up direct deposit, follow these steps:

• Log into your ACORN account. 
• Ensure your contact information, including address, is up-to-date under Profile & Settings . 
• Click on Financial Account  in the left menu. 
• Select Direct Deposit  and enter your banking information. You will need your transit number, bank number, and account number. 
• Banking Authorization Form
• Void cheque or printout from bank with account information
• TD1 Tax Form, TD1-ON Tax Form
• Photocopy of Social Insurance Number (SIN) card, and
• Photocopy of study permit (if not a citizen or resident of Canada).
• Note to international students: If you do not have a Social Insurance Number, please secure the information required by Services Canada in applying for a Canadian Social Insurance Number (SIN). You must have a valid Social Insurance Number in order to earn income in Canada. 

Important notes:

• ACORN/ROSI and U of T's payroll HR system are not connected and therefore any changes to your information must be submitted separately for each system.
• Payroll entries must be processed by the payroll close date, which is typically about the 15th of the month, and about the 7th in December. Your information must reach the Department Manager in sufficient time to allow for processing.

When to expect payment

UTF payment comes in two forms: a stipend and tuition.

• The stipend is paid three times a year: at the beginning of September, January, and May.
• The tuition is paid directly into the student account in two instalments, in September and January.

CGS-M, SSHRC, FAST and OGS awards are paid in three instalments in September, January, and May. Students holding CGS-M, SSHRC and OGS awards are responsible for paying their tuition as it is NOT automatically deducted from these awards.

TA payments come on the 28th of the month, but only for the months the student teaches. If, for example, the student’s TAship is in the Fall semester only, the payments will be deposited in September, October, November, and December. The Winter payments come in January, February, March and April.

RAship Stipend is paid into your account in October by direct deposit.

Additional Funding Sources

Work-study program.

Every year the Centre hires work-study students to provide employment and career development opportunities. This is a part of the University of Toronto financial aid program. Students may apply for the positions advertised by the Centre, but also for positions advertised by individual faculty members and other departments.

Work-Study positions for the 2024-25 academic year will be made available on the Career Learning Network website .

Job postings will be made available to view in August 2024. All students registered as full time for the 2024-25 year will be eligible to apply.

Research & Conference Grants

• The Faculty of Arts & Science and the School of Graduate Studies hold competitions annually for research travel grants. Funds are available for a limited number of doctoral students in the humanities to study or carry out research in Canada, the United States or overseas.
• The Centre for Drama, Theatre & Performance Studies realizes the importance of research abroad and has limited research and conference travel funds available.

Financial Aid

We encourage you to investigate your eligibility for financial aid:

• Financing Your Graduate Education  (School of Graduate Studies)
• U of T Finances : general information on fees, funding, awards and more. 
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• Program Requirements
• Academic Milestones: Program by Year
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• Scholarships & Awards
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Canada pledges dramatic pay rise for PhDs, postdocs – but many will not benefit

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The Canadian government has pledged a significant investment in its graduate students and postdoctoral scholars after more than two decades of stagnation . Its 2024 budget proposal , announced on 16 April , provides C$825 million (£481 million) over the next five years to support next-generation researchers by increasing both the number and value of stipends. However, the pay rise will only be seen by graduates who win scarce Tri-Council grants, although it is hoped that as these stipends rise others will need to too to compete.

The budget, which the House of Commons must pass before it is finalised, would provide nearly C$200 million per year, increasing annual master’s and PhD scholarships to $27,000 and $40,000, respectively, and postdoctoral fellowships to $70,000. The budget’s passage is not guaranteed – it needs the support of at least one of three political parties other than the ruling Liberal party.

Source: © David Kawai/Bloomberg/Getty Images

Justin Trudeau, Canada’s prime minister, and Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s deputy prime minister and finance minister, presented the budget on 16 April. The package included funding that ended over 20 years of stagnation in PhD and postdoctoral stipends

The planned increases represent a dramatic jump. Currently, the typical annual stipend in Canada is around C$17,500 for master’s students, C$24,000 for PhDs and C$45,000 for postdocs. The government is also proposing C$1.8 billion to the different funding agencies in Canada over five years to increase core research grant funding.

The funding surge is expected to increase the number of research scholarships and fellowships provided by the government, building to approximately 1720 more graduate students or fellows benefiting each year.

Graduate student and postdoc pay in Canada has remained unchanged for over 20 years . A national survey last year by the Ottawa Science Policy Network found that nearly 90% of graduate students in the country reported feeling stressed and anxious about their finances, and almost one-third said they have considered leaving academia due to financial pressures.

‘These fellowships had the same value for many years, which means their ability to support students had, in many cases, fallen below a livable amount,’ explains Bruce Arndtsen , a chemistry professor at McGill University. ‘Many departments and institutions therefore needed to top these fellowships up from research grants simply to get to our normal stipend level.’

Most chemistry graduates ineligible for raise

Such a significant increase to graduate student stipends in Canada will give top students a competitive stipend and enable Canada to better retain these students, Arndtsen adds. ‘It will also allow the use of grant funds to better support their research activities rather than topping their fellowship up to needed levels.’

However, he notes that these stipend increases will only apply to the select few who win prestigious Tri-Council awards, and the majority of chemistry graduate students in Canada do not receive these top fellowships but are instead paid from research grants. In fact, Arndtsen notes that funding for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada’s major chemistry funding programme has also remained stagnant for decades, and he expresses hope that these grants will receive a similar increase in the near term.

Anne Labarre , a sixth-year PhD chemistry student at McGill who is involved in computational drug discovery, celebrated the government’s announcement. Labarre says the PhD stipends at her chemistry department are currently fixed at around C$26,000 per year and emphasises that this increase is significant considering the recent inflation and rent increases in Montreal.

Matthew Berg, who received a PhD in biochemistry from Western University in Canada in 2021 and is now a postdoc at the University of Washington in the US, is optimistic. ‘These increases are going to set the bar for where funding should be for trainees in the sciences and in graduate school,’ he states. ‘Right now, a lot of Canadian graduate students struggle,’ Berg continues. ‘We’ve heard stories of students having to rely on food banks and different support systems in order to just make it through their degree.’

Last year there was a nationwide walkout of students and academics in Canada who were demanding more federal funding for graduate students and postdoc researchers. This month, graduate teaching assistants at Western University went on strike to protest what they deemed unfair wages. Meanwhile, a union representing striking academic workers at York University in Toronto, including teaching assistants and graduate workers, appeared to have reached a tentative deal on 14 April after being on strike over pay since late February.

Berg says he was lucky – he received one of one of the elusive federal awards to support him as a PhD candidate in Canada, which he says was worth about C$35,000 annually for three years. As a postdoc in the US, Berg says he currently receives significantly better compensation, with a stipend equivalent to more than C$90,000.

‘My dream after my PhD is to move to back to Canada and be a professor there,’ he says. ‘But it does make me nervous how difficult it is to get funding there and I don’t want to run a lab where my students are struggling to survive.’

Michel Cayouette , the vice president of research and academic affairs at the Montreal Clinical Research Institute, says the C$1.8 billion funding boost is great news but will be insufficient to allow supervisors to increase the value of their trainees’ stipends to the amounts announced for award recipients. ‘This means that the vast majority of students and postdocs will continue to struggle financially,’ Cayouette warns. ‘There is therefore more work to do in coming years to fill the gap in funding and ensure that all trainees receive a liveable wage.’

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5 countries offering the highest PhD stipends

Did you know that as a PhD student, there is a difference between salary and PhD stipends?

This is just one of the many things you should know when deciding to do a PhD .

As the highest level of education, a Doctor of Philosophy or PhD can take anywhere from four to 12 years to complete .

Embarking on a journey towards a PhD is an intellectually rewarding pursuit, but it often comes with financial challenges.

So, how do students cope?

If you receive a salary, you are likely an employee the school hired to carry out a job like leading a class.

Like most jobs, salaried workers get a set wage based on their hours and often have employee benefits like subsidised healthcare or compensation.

A PhD stipend is a financial support system for doctoral students to cover living expenses, tuition, and research costs during their academic journey.

There are three types of PhD stipends :

• Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs): For this, you are required to assist by delivering one or more courses over a number of years. You would also need to take on other responsibilities, such as marking student tutorials, supervising lab experiments, and providing support to undergraduates during office hours.
• Research Assistantships (RAs): In this role, you will assist a departmental professor with their research. If you are lucky, the professor will be your PhD supervisor, and their research (and the support you give) will relate to your own doctoral project.
• Stipend via Studentship: This is a non-repayable grant for doctoral students. Unlike the other two stipends, this one rarely has additional suits, but you must progress with your degree.

Have PhD stipends always been like this?

PhD stipends have a rich history that mirrors the evolution of higher education.

Our current understanding of a PhD originated in 19th-century Germany , but doctoral degrees were awarded long before this.

Over time, PhD stipends have evolved into a cornerstone of doctoral education, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the pursuit of advanced knowledge.

Fun fact: The term “stipend” itself has Latin origins, coming from “stipendium,” which refers to a soldier’s pay.

This etymology underscores the idea that stipends are a form of financial support for individuals committed to advancing knowledge, akin to soldiers committed to a cause.

Sometimes, these PhD stipends are not enough.

In January 2023, The Guardian reported about how PhD students in Australia were barely earning enough to survive.

“Through Melbourne’s winter, I know people forced into less than suitable housing who weren’t turning on their heat,” said Tara-Lyn Camilleri, who lobbied to raise the stipend at Monash University from 30,000 AUD to A$37,000 while completing her PhD last year.

It was eventually raised to A$33,000, about A$4,500 less than the minimum wage after tax.

As PhDs can take years to complete, it is always easier to do one when you have money saved away instead of relying entirely on the PhD stipend.

Eric Schmidt, former CEO and Chairman of Google, has a PhD in electrical engineering.

Forbes even released a list of the most popular PhDs among billionaires :

• Former CEO of Google. Eric Schmidt (estimated net worth: US$16.2 billion), UC Berkeley
• The man behind Garmin GPS, Min Kao (US$4.2 billion), University of Tennessee
• Co-Founder, Chief Technology Officer and Chairman of Broadcom, Henry Samueli (US$7.7 billion), UCLA
• Founder of D. E. Shaw & Co., L.P., David Shaw (US$7.9 billion),  Stanford University
• Co-Founder & Co-Chairman of Two Sigma, David Siegel  (US$6.8 billion), Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• The man behind some of Microsoft’s most successful software, including Word and Excel, Charles Simonyi (US$5.2 billion), Stanford University

And while having these PhDs doesn’t necessarily mean you’re on your way to the list of richest people in the world, it definitely makes you more knowledgeable than most. Having a PhD stipend will simply make this journey to the top easier.

In fact, some universities around the world have increased their stipends recently to attract more talent.

• The Canadian government has pledged 825 million CAD (approximately US$603 million) to support next-generation researchers by increasing both the number and value of stipends over the next five years. This would increase annual PhD stipends from 24,000 CAD to 40,000 CAD.
• Vanderbilt University, one of the most expensive universities in the world , will increase its PhD stipends to a range of US$34,000 to US$38,000 beginning in the 2024-25 academic year.
• De La Salle University is offering full tuition and fees with monthly stipends of 35,000 PHP (approximately US$600) for full-time students in any PhD academic programme through the Saint Miguel Febres Cordero PhD Scholarship Programme.

Now, if you’re a promising PhD student hoping to secure your stipend, try checking out these countries with some of the best offers:

The University of Vienna is a public research university located in Austria. Source: University of Vienna

Top 5 countries with the highest PhD stipends

• Average PhD stipend: US$104,328
• Average cost of living: US$1,705.67

Boasting over 50 institutions of higher education, it is no surprise that Austria is a top choice for a PhD.

Its rich cultural and academic heritage offers competitive stipends, with institutions like the University of Vienna leading the way.

This is because of the country’s commitment to academic excellence and research.

Universities often collaborate with international partners, contributing to a vibrant research community.

Government funding and a focus on supporting doctoral research contribute to the attractiveness of stipends in Austria.

Here are some of the best universities in Austria:

• University of Vienna
• Vienna University of Technology
• University of Innsbruck
• Medical University of Graz
• Salzburg University

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by UvA: University of Amsterdam (@uva_amsterdam)

Netherlands

• Average PhD stipend: US$74,163
• Cost of living: US$861.45  to US$1292.17

The Netherlands, known for its innovation and research-driven culture, offers competitive stipends, with institutions like Delft University of Technology providing substantial financial support.

About 10 Dutch research universities are ranked in the top 200 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022.

The Netherlands is also highly ranked internationally for the number of publications per researcher (second) and for the impact of research publication (fourth).

“The PhD salary in the Netherlands is one of the best in the world,” a former PhD says to Dutch News .

“In the UK, the salaries are just 1,000 pounds and PhD students need to work at weekends. I was able to buy a house while being a PhD student here.”

Here are some of the top universities in the Netherlands :

• University of Amsterdam
• Leiden University
• University of Groningen
• Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
• Erasmus University Rotterdam

The University of Helsinki has one of the highest PhD stipends. Source: University of Helsinki

• Average PhD stipend: US$46,537
• Cost of living:  US$646.09 to US$969.13

Renowned for its high-quality education system, Finland offers competitive stipends, with institutions like the University of Helsinki providing substantial financial support.

Government funding often supports stipends in Finland, reflecting the country’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers.

Students are also encouraged to take ownership of the research in Finland.

Here are the top universities in Finland :

• University of Helsinki
• Aalto University
• University of Oulu
• Tampere University
• University of Turku

Universities in Denmark often offer industrial PhDs. Source: University of Copenhagen

• Average PhD stipend: US$53,436
• Average cost of living: US$11,45.62

Denmark strongly emphasises education and research, and the country’s social welfare system ensures that stipends are sufficient to cover living expenses.

The country also offers an Industrial PhD option if you want to conduct a research project with commercial perspectives.

Denmark is also popular for the balance of robust academics and a great living standard, giving international students the best of both worlds.

Here are the best universities in Denmark:

• University of Copenhagen
• Technical University of Denmark
• Aarhus University
• University of Southern Denmark (SDU)
• Aalborg University
• Average PhD stipend: US$42,618
• Average cost of living: US$2,512.13

The land of innovation and Vikings beckons ambitious scholars with competitive stipends and one institution that stands out is the renowned Karolinska Institute.

Sweden’s commitment to pioneering research and its unique blend of modernity and tradition make it an alluring destination for those pursuing a PhD.

Most universities in Sweden offer salaries instead of stipends.

Here are some of the leading institutions in Sweden :

• Blekinge Institute of Technology
• Chalmers University of Technology
• Dalarna University
• Halmstad University
• Jönköping University

*All figures were converted as of the time of writing on December 7, 2023.

Disclaimer: This article was last updated on May 23, 2024.

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Annual stipends of $17,500 to $21,000 are 'definitely below the poverty line,' says grad student.

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Students doing graduate-level research say Canada risks losing its future scientists to other countries because the dollar amounts of annual grants have remained stagnant for nearly 20 years.

A Canada Graduate Scholarship from one of the three federal research funding agencies is $17,500 per year for a master's student or $21,000 per year for a doctoral student. Those amounts have not changed since 2003.

In return for that funding, the recipients are expected to work full-time on their research, and in some cases are explicitly banned from spending more than 10 hours per week on any other paid employment. 

"Definitely below the poverty line in any capacity," said Sarah Laframboise, a PhD student in biochemistry at the University of Ottawa. 

Laframboise is one of the organizers of a campaign called Support Our Science, calling on the Trudeau government to boost graduate student funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. 

WATCH | Research grants to grad students unchanged since 2003:

Grad student funding crunch

The three federal agencies fund the research of thousands of grad students every year at universities across Canada.

• Audio The “Support our Science” movement pushes to boost funding for young scientists

"These students really deserve a living wage," said Laframboise. "They're struggling to pay rent, tuition, all of these costs."

Grants haven't grown with inflation 

Support Our Science has held a rally on Parliament Hill, presented a petition to the House of Commons and prepared a submission for the federal government's budget consultations. 

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, François-Philippe Champagne, said he is aware of the call for more funding for graduate researchers. 

"I'm very much seized about that. This is going to be part of our discussions with the minister of finance," Champagne told CBC News earlier in December, adding that students should "stay tuned" for the 2023 budget. 

"It's clear that if we want to own the podium, we need to do more to support the researchers, the students and the scientists," said Champagne. 

He said the Trudeau government has invested in science and research, but Laframboise argues that those investments have not resulted in better annual funding to graduate students. 

Her group wants the government to increase both the value and number of scholarships and fellowships that the three agencies give to graduate researchers. 

"They often spend 40 to 60 hours a week in the lab doing their research," Laframboise said. "So when we look at it from this perspective, these students really deserve a living wage." 

Inflation has eroded the value of the grants. If the $17,500 amount for a master's student researcher had risen with inflation since 2003, it would today be worth $26,140, according to the Bank of Canada's inflation calculator.  

A feeling of 'generalized anxiety'

Jessica Reid, a master's student in fish ecology at Carleton University in Ottawa, says she has had to seek extra funding beyond her NSERC award to support her research and cover her costs.

"I'm one of the fortunate ones," Reid said in an interview. "There's just this feeling of generalized anxiety. Sometimes you are trying to make ends meet, or you're trying to decide between groceries and other things."  

When she learned that the NSERC grant to a master's student had not changed for nearly 20 years, Reid said she found it shocking.  

"It's quite frustrating to hear that my research and my contributions aren't valued," she said. "You just can't help but feel a bit slighted." 

Both Reid and Laframboise believe their research is important. Laframboise's biochemistry work focuses on cancer, using yeast.  

"Yeast and humans share about 30 per cent of the same genes," she said. "I study a gene that in humans causes cancer, but in yeast we can study this in a much more robust, easy, cheaper way."

Reid is researching the impact of urban development on the fish of the Jock River, which flows into the Rideau River in Ottawa. 

• In Depth Black scientists won't stay in Canada without equitable research funding, experts say

She says the stagnant funding is a factor in Canadian students deciding to leave the country for graduate degrees.

"Feeling like you can't thrive or you just don't have the resources to stay in this field is definitely going to dampen Canada's research ability in the coming years," she said.

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• 28 April 2023

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How much is a typical PhD stipend in Canada?

I'm from the UK where a PhD stipend is minimum £15,609 ($27,215 CAD) per year. I've seen what seems to be the perfect PhD for me, but the stipend is advertised as $21,000 CAD (£12,044). This seems really low to me.! Is this normal/liveable in Canada, or am I right in thinking it's quite low?

• Computational Biology & Bioinformatics (PhD Program)

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