If you are a graduate student in Ontario, Canada, looking for funding opportunities to support your research and academic pursuits, the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program may be an excellent option for you. The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program provides merit-based scholarships to students who are pursuing their graduate studies at eligible institutions in Ontario. Here is a comprehensive guide on the OGS program, including eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for a successful application.
Table of Contents
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the OGS program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students are eligible to apply.
- Residency: Applicants must be residing in Ontario at the time of application.
- Institution: Applicants must be enrolled or have an offer of admission as a full-time student in a master’s or doctoral program at an eligible institution in Ontario.
- Academic Standing: Applicants must have a minimum A- average in each of the last two years of full-time study or equivalent.
- Research Potential: Applicants must demonstrate research potential or achievement through publications, conference presentations, or other research-related activities.
Application Process
The OGS program has a rigorous and competitive application process, which includes the following stages:
- Applicant Preparing Application: Applicants must obtain application materials and instructions from their institution’s graduate studies office, and prepare their application package, including their academic transcripts, research statement, CV, and letters of reference.
- Online Application Submission: Applicants must submit their application online through the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Application System by the deadline specified by their institution.
- Evaluation Process: Applications are evaluated by a multidisciplinary selection committee based on the applicant’s academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities.
- Award Announcement: Successful applicants are notified of their award in the spring, and the funding period starts on May 1 of the following academic year.
Note that the website to apply for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) varies depending on the applicant’s institution. Typically, applicants can access the online application system through their institution’s graduate studies office. Applicants should check with their institution for the specific website and application deadlines for the OGS program.
For example, find the link for the Ontario Graduate scholarship if you are student of the University Toronto
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of success in the OGS program, we recommend the following tips:
- Start Early: Give yourself enough time to prepare your application package and gather all required documents. Don’t wait until the last minute to start the application process.
- Be Clear and Concise: Your research statement should be clear, concise, and well-structured. Use plain language and avoid technical jargon that may be difficult for non-experts to understand.
- Choose the Right Referees: Choose referees who know you well and can provide a detailed assessment of your academic and research abilities. Make sure to provide them with enough time to write their letters of reference.
- Showcase Your Leadership Qualities: The OGS program values applicants who have demonstrated leadership potential. Showcase your leadership abilities in your application, including your ability to collaborate, communicate, and take initiative.
- Seek Feedback: Ask your supervisor or other faculty members to review your application package and provide feedback. This can help you identify areas for improvement and make your application stronger.
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship program is a merit-based scholarship which is similar in many respects to the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships which provides financial support to graduate students in Ontario who are pursuing their master’s or doctoral degree. To increase your chances of success, make sure to meet the eligibility criteria, start early, choose the right referees, and showcase your research potential and leadership abilities in your application. With careful preparation and a strong application, you could be on your way to receiving an OGS award to support your graduate studies in Ontario.