The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program is a prestigious scholarship program that the Ontario government established to support and encourage students to pursue graduate studies in the province of Ontario. The OGS program is funded jointly by the provincial and federal governments of Canada, and it provides financial support to students who show exceptional academic achievements, research skills, and leadership abilities.
The OGS program is highly competitive, and it awards scholarships to students who have a proven record of academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills. The scholarship program aims to attract the brightest and most talented students to pursue their graduate studies in Ontario, and to help them to achieve their academic and professional goals.
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Eligibility Criteria for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
To be eligible for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents or protected persons.
- Academic Performance: Applicants must have achieved an average of at least A- (or equivalent) in each of the last two years of study (full-time equivalent), in a recognized graduate program at an eligible Ontario university.
- Enrolment Status: Applicants must be enrolled or have applied for full-time studies in a master’s or doctoral program at an eligible Ontario university at the time of application and for the academic year they are seeking funding.
- Program of Study: Applicants must be enrolled in a program that is eligible for OGS funding.
- Previous OGS Awards: Applicants are eligible to receive OGS awards for a maximum of 6 terms of full-time study. Part-time study will be pro-rated.
- Financial Need: Applicants are not required to demonstrate financial need.
- Other Awards: Applicants may hold other scholarships, awards, or bursaries from any source up to a value of $5,000 per year without affecting their OGS funding.
Application Process for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
The application process for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to ensure that all requirements are met. Here are the steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Check eligibility: Before applying, ensure that you meet all of the eligibility criteria for the scholarship. This includes being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person; being enrolled or planning to enrol in a full-time graduate program at an eligible institution in Ontario; and maintaining a minimum average of A- in each of the last two years of study.
- Contact your graduate department: Speak with the graduate department of your intended program to inquire about the application process and any additional requirements specific to your program.
- Submit application: Complete and submit the online application through the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program website. You will be required to provide personal and academic information, as well as a research proposal.
- Submit supporting documents: You will be required to submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, as well as two reference letters.
- Deadline: The application deadline for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program varies depending on the institution, so be sure to check the deadline for your specific institution.
- Wait for results: Successful applicants will be notified by their institution in April or May.
You may apply for this scholarship here.
Selection Process for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program (OGS) is a prestigious scholarship that is awarded to students pursuing graduate studies at Ontario universities. The selection process for the OGS program is highly competitive, and the scholarships are awarded based on a number of factors.
The first step in the selection process is the evaluation of the student’s academic record. Students who have achieved a high level of academic success in their previous studies are more likely to be considered for the scholarship. The selection committee will evaluate the student’s transcripts to determine their GPA and other academic achievements.
In addition to academic achievements, the selection committee will also consider the student’s research experience and potential. This includes evaluating the student’s research proposal and letters of reference from faculty members who have worked with the student.
Another important factor that the selection committee will consider is the student’s personal statement. This statement should clearly demonstrate the student’s passion for their field of study and their research goals. It should also highlight any unique experiences or achievements that make the student stand out from other applicants.
The selection process for the OGS program is highly competitive, and only a limited number of scholarships are awarded each year. Students who are selected for the scholarship will be notified by their university and will receive the scholarship for the duration of their graduate studies.
FAQs – the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
To be eligible for the program, students must be enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program at an eligible institution in Ontario, Canada.
The selection criteria include academic excellence, research ability and potential, communication, interpersonal and leadership abilities, and commitment to and involvement in the community.
The value of the OGS is CAD 5,000 per session. Thus, awardees may receive CAD 10,000 for two consecutive sessions or CAD 15,000 for three consecutive sessions.
The number of awards granted each year depends on the funding available from the government.
Yes, international students enrolled in an eligible institution in Ontario can apply for the program.
Students must be nominated by their institution, and the nomination deadline is typically in November. Students should check with their institution for specific deadlines and application procedures.
Students are allowed to hold other scholarships while receiving the Ontario Graduate Scholarship, but they must inform their institution and ensure that the funding received does not exceed their financial needs.
Tips for a successful application for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
- Start early: It is important to start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to gather all the necessary documents and complete the application process before the deadline.
- Review the eligibility criteria: Before you start your application, make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria. Read the guidelines carefully to ensure that you have all the required documents and meet the minimum academic requirements.
- Choose your referees wisely: The referees you choose should be able to speak to your academic achievements, research potential, and ability to contribute to your field. Choose referees who know you well and can provide detailed letters of recommendation.
- Focus on your research proposal: The research proposal is an important part of the application, and it is essential to focus on this section to showcase your research potential. Make sure your research proposal is clear, concise, and well-structured.
- Highlight your achievements: In your application, make sure to highlight your academic achievements, research experience, publications, and other relevant accomplishments.
- Seek feedback: Before you submit your application, seek feedback from your referees, mentors, and other professionals in your field. This will help you to improve your application and increase your chances of success.
- Stay organized: Keep all your documents and application materials organized and easily accessible. This will help you to avoid missing any important deadlines or documents.
You may also check fully-funded scholarships in Canada here.