Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (FRQ)

Overview

The Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (FRQ) is a fully funded award offered by Government of Quebec, tenable at participating universities in Canada. The Fonds de recherche du Québec award for outstanding international doctoral and postdoctoral researchers in Québec. In value terms, it provides CAD 25,000/yr doctoral merit award. It is intended for international students undertaking phd-level study. The number of awards varies year to year, and selection is competitive, so submit a strong, complete application. Because eligibility rules, award values and deadlines change from year to year, treat the figures here as indicative and always confirm the current details on the official website before you apply.

Eligibility

Excellent academic record and research potential in an eligible Québec programme.

Benefits

CAD 25,000/yr doctoral merit award

How to apply

Applications are made through the Government of Quebec website, and most awards require you to already hold an offer or be enrolled at an eligible Canadian institution. In general, the process looks like this: (1) confirm you meet every eligibility criterion, including any nationality, level-of-study or nomination requirement; (2) secure admission to an eligible programme, since most scholarships require an offer or active enrolment; (3) prepare your supporting documents and, if a nomination is needed, contact your school or department early; (4) complete and submit the application before the published deadline, keeping copies of everything; and (5) monitor your email for interview requests, references or verification. Some awards are considered automatically at admission, while others need a separate application — check which applies before you start.

Documents required

Typical supporting documents include: academic transcripts and certificates; proof of English-language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo); a personal statement, essay or statement of purpose; one or more letters of recommendation; a copy of your passport / identification; proof of admission or enrolment (where required); evidence of financial need (for need-based awards). Requirements differ by award, so use the official checklist as the final word, and prepare documents well ahead of the deadline as some (such as transcripts and reference letters) take time to obtain.

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