UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO
University of Toronto Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program 2027
- Fully funded for 4 yearsFunding
- ~CAD 80,000/yearAnnual Award
- ~CAD 320,000Total Funding
- September 2027Start Date
- Interdisciplinary PhD researchFocus
- ~12+ scholars annuallyCohort Size
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries
Country
University of Toronto
Provider
The University of Toronto Presidents’ Impact Scholarship Program is a significant doctoral scholarship initiative designed to attract exceptional PhD applicants globally. Established with an unprecedented $100-million investment, the program seeks to foster a new model of doctoral education emphasizing interdisciplinary research, real-world problem-solving, and major societal challenges. The inaugural cohort of Presidents’ Impact Scholars is expected to commence their PhD studies in September 2027. Each year, the program will bring together approximately 12 or more PhD scholars around a specific societal challenge or research theme, which will change annually. These themes could span areas such as AI and health, quantum technologies, genomics, biomedical sciences, sustainability, public policy, and cybersecurity. Scholars will work with two faculty supervisors from different disciplines, promoting cross-disciplinary expertise. The scholarship offers substantial financial support, providing $80,000 per year for four years, totaling $320,000 over the PhD period. Beyond funding, scholars become part of a selective interdisciplinary community, engaging with researchers across the University of Toronto. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Annual Stipend — A living allowance and research support of ~CAD 80,000 per year for four years.
- Total Funding — A comprehensive funding package totaling ~CAD 320,000 over the four-year PhD period.
- Interdisciplinary Supervision — Guidance from two faculty supervisors from different academic disciplines.
- Experiential Learning — Opportunities for external engagement experiences, such as government partnerships, international placements, or industry internships.
- Research Community Access — Integration into a highly selective interdisciplinary community of doctoral researchers at the University of Toronto.
How to apply
Prospective applicants for the Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program should monitor the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies website for the official call for applications. The application process will involve submitting a comprehensive application package.
- Monitor Official Announcements — Regularly check the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies website for the formal call for applications and detailed instructions.
- Identify Research Theme — Familiarize yourself with the annual societal challenge or research theme announced for the 2027 intake.
- Prepare Application Materials — Gather all required documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of interest.
- Submit Application — Complete and submit your application through the official University of Toronto graduate admissions portal once it becomes available.
Eligibility
NationalityOpen to Canadian and international PhD applicants from around the world.
Study LevelProspective PhD students.
Academic StandingExceptional academic excellence required.
Research FocusDemonstrated capacity for innovation, creativity, and problem-solving, with an interest in interdisciplinary research on major societal challenges.
Applicants from a wide range of disciplines are encouraged to apply, particularly those whose work aligns with potential themes such as AI and health, quantum technologies, genomics, sustainability, and cybersecurity.
Eligible countries
All countries
Deadlines
September 2027 (est.)2026-11-01
Selection
Recipients are selected based on their academic excellence and demonstrated capacity for innovation, creativity, and real-world problem-solving. The selection process also considers the applicant's potential to contribute to ambitious interdisciplinary research and translate knowledge into meaningful public or commercial impact. Candidates are chosen for their ability to thrive in a collaborative environment focused on complex societal challenges.
Verified sources
- University of Toronto School of Graduate Studiessgs.utoronto.caofficial
About the provider
The University of Toronto, founded in 1827, is a globally recognized public research university in Toronto, Canada. It is Canada's largest university and a leading institution for research and innovation, known for its extensive network of affiliates and diverse academic programs.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program?
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The Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program is a major doctoral scholarship initiative by the University of Toronto to attract exceptional PhD applicants from Canada and globally. It supports interdisciplinary research focused on significant societal challenges.
What does the scholarship cover?
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The scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, covering tuition, living expenses, and research costs through a substantial annual stipend. It also provides interdisciplinary supervision and opportunities for external engagement.
What is the value of the award?
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Scholars receive ~CAD 80,000 per year for four years, accumulating to a total potential funding package of ~CAD 320,000 over the PhD period.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
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Exceptional PhD applicants from Canada and around the world are eligible. Candidates are evaluated on academic excellence, innovation, creativity, and their ability to solve real-world problems.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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This scholarship is open to applicants from all countries, making it a global opportunity for doctoral candidates.
Which study levels are supported by this scholarship?
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The Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program is specifically designed for students pursuing doctoral (PhD) degrees.
What is the application deadline?
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A formal call for applications is forthcoming for the September 2027 intake. The deadline is estimated to be around November 1, 2026, but applicants should verify on the official University of Toronto website.
How do I apply for the Presidents' Impact Scholarship Program?
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Prospective applicants should monitor the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies website for the official application launch and instructions. The process will involve a detailed application submission through their portal.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents typically include academic transcripts, a CV, letters of recommendation, a statement of interest, and proof of English language proficiency if applicable.
How are scholarship recipients selected?
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Recipients are chosen based on academic excellence, demonstrated capacity for innovation, creativity, and the ability to address real-world problems through interdisciplinary research.
What is the duration of the scholarship and is it renewable?
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The scholarship provides funding for four years. While not explicitly stated as renewable, the four-year funding package covers the standard PhD duration.
Where can I confirm the most current details about this scholarship?
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For the most current and official details, including application opening dates, deadlines, and eligibility, please visit the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies official website.