This page is a valuable source for a wide variety of resources related to applying for funding for graduate students. We encourage you to refer back to this website frequently as these resources will be helpful throughout your time as a graduate student.
If you have additional questions regarding any of these resources or scholarship applications, please contact the School of Graduate Studies at graduatefinance@trentu.ca
Upcoming Workshops & Events
Winning graduate scholarships takes practice. The School of Graduate Studies is hosting a series of workshops to guide you through the scholarship application process. From crafting an impactful outline of proposed research to navigating special circumstances, these workshops aim to equip you with the tools you need.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship / Queen Elizabeth II Ontario Graduate Scholarship in Science & Technology Overview
Applying for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship can feel overwhelming without a strong foundation. This session provides an overview of the OGS program, including eligibility requirements, application components, and timelines. Participants will learn how the scholarship is assessed and gain practical tips for organizing their application materials. Whether you’re new to OGS or looking to refresh your knowledge, this workshop will help you start drafting your application.
Where: Zoom - register here!
When: Tuesday, January 13 from 11:00am-12:00pm
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Outline of Proposed Research – Doctoral
The Outline of Proposed Research is one of the most critical parts of the OGS application, especially at the doctoral level. This workshop focuses on strategies for presenting your research clearly, persuasively, and in alignment with OGS evaluation criteria. The session provides various proposal frameworks for communicating research and ensuring all key components are included.
Where: Zoom - register here!
When: Wednesday, January 14 from 1:00-2:00pm
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Outline of Proposed Research – Master’s
Master’s students face unique challenges in preparing the Outline of Proposed Research for OGS applications, given the shorter scope of their programs. This focused session offers practical guidance on how to communicate your project’s purpose, methodology, and impact within limited space. The workshop is designed to be efficient and highly targeted to Master’s level applications.
Where: Zoom - register here!
When: Thursday, January 15 from 12:00-1:00pm
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Reference Letters and Special Circumstances
Strong reference letters can make a decisive difference in scholarship competitions. This workshop provides strategies for requesting and supporting referees in writing impactful letters. Participants will also learn how to address special circumstances—such as academic interruptions or personal challenges—in a way that adds context without detracting from their application. The session emphasizes professionalism, clarity, and confidence, equipping students with tools that extend beyond OGS to future academic and career opportunities.
Where: Zoom - register here!
When: Friday, January 16 from 10:00am-11:00am
Graduate Studies Scholarship Application Resources
Both Doctoral & Master's
Overview of Graduate Scholarships Slide Deck
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Application Tips Slide Deck
Tri-Council Selection Criteria - Detailed Explanation
Faculty Guide: Writing Letters of Recommendation for Scholarship Applications Slide Deck
Doctoral
Doctoral Graduate Program Presentations (Fall 2025) Slide Deck
Canada Graduate Research Scholarships - Doctoral Program Slide Deck
Outline of Proposed Research Slide Deck
Letters of Reference & Special Circumstances Slide Deck
Master's
Canada Graduate Research Scholarships - Master's Program Slide Deck
Canada Graduate Research Scholarships - Outline of Proposed Research Slide Deck
Tri-Council Resources
The Tri-Council agencies include the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). These are federal granting agencies that support research, research training and innovation in Canadian postsecondary institutions.
The following resources are useful when applying for scholarships from any of the Tri-Council agencies:
Selecting the Appropriate Federal Granting Agency
Guidelines on the Assessment of Contributions to Research, Training and Mentoring
San Francisco Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA)
Guide for Applicants: Considering Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Your Application
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (Multiple)
How to Integrate Sex and Gender into Research
Gendered Innovations
Guidelines for the Merit Review of Indigenous Research
Health Research Training at CIHR
Training Resources (“Career Hub”)
CV/Resume Help: Careerspace
Careerspace offers assistance for creating CVs and resumes.
Careerspace also offers valuable learning tools and opportunities to gain practical, hands-on experience to prepare students for life after Trent.
Academic Skills Graduate Workshops
Academic Skills works closely with graduate students to help them develop as scholars and writers as well as teaching assistants. We hope that you will take advantage of the many services that we can offer you.