Fully Funded Quebec Government Merit Scholarship Canada

The Quebec Government Merit Scholarship, supported by the Ministère de l’Éducation, de l’Enseignement supérieur (MEES) and administered by the Fonds québécois de la recherche sur la nature et la technologie (FRQNT), is a distinguished initiative designed to draw top-tier international students and researchers to Quebec.

This scholarship program, established with the intent of fostering academic excellence and innovation, provides substantial financial assistance to international candidates pursuing advanced studies and research in Quebec’s universities.

Degree Levels and Eligibility

The Quebec Government Merit Scholarship for 2024/2025 (PBEE) is available for international students aiming to enroll in various advanced degree programs, including Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral and Short-Term Research programs at Quebec’s esteemed universities. The scholarship covers a broad spectrum of academic fields, allowing students from diverse disciplines to apply.

Available Subjects

The scholarship is open to all fields of study, making it a versatile opportunity for students across different academic disciplines to enhance their research and educational pursuits in Quebec.

Benefits of the Quebec Government Merit Scholarship

The PBEEE scholarship is not merely a financial aid program; it offers a comprehensive support package designed to facilitate academic and research excellence in Quebec. Here’s a detailed look at the benefits included in the scholarship:

Financial Support

Master’s Research: Recipients will receive $20,000 annually for up to two years to support their master’s studies.
Doctoral Research: This category offers $25,000 per year for up to three years. Additionally, there is a potential one-year extension with an extra $1,000 per month.
Postdoctoral Fellowship: A fixed sum of $35,000 is provided for one year to support postdoctoral research activities.
Short-Term Research/Development: Scholars undertaking short-term research will receive a stipend of $3,000 per month for up to four months to cover their research expenses.

Educational and Healthcare Benefits

Reduced Educational Costs: Scholarship recipients are exempt from the higher tuition fees typically imposed on international students, substantially reducing the overall cost of education.
Healthcare Coverage: Scholars are provided with health insurance under Quebec’s health insurance plan, ensuring they are well-covered throughout their studies or research stay in Quebec.

In summary, the PBEEE scholarship provides an extensive support structure to enable scholars to concentrate fully on their academic endeavors without the burden of financial or healthcare concerns.

Eligibility Criteria

The PBEEE scholarship is open to international students from all countries, excluding Canadian citizens. Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility requirements for various categories of the scholarship:

General Requirements

Applicants must not be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and should not have applied for permanent residency in Canada.
Applicants should not have previously received the Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (MEES).

Specific Requirements by Scholarship Type

Master’s Research: Candidates must be enrolled in a research-based master’s program with a thesis component. They should have completed no more than three semesters (one year) of their master’s program by May 1, 2025.
Doctoral Research: Applicants must be within the first nine semesters of their doctoral program, excluding any semesters previously funded. Those transitioning directly from a bachelor’s to a PhD program without a master’s thesis can apply for semesters seven to fifteen but may first need to qualify for a master’s research scholarship.
Postdoctoral: Candidates should have obtained their PhD within the past two years or submitted their thesis by January 15, 2024. Their postdoctoral research must be conducted at an institution different from where their PhD was completed.
Short-Term Research/Development: This category is divided into two options:
- Option A: For technical or university students.
- Option B: For researchers who have completed their PhD within the past five years. Short-term research must take place at a different institution than the applicant’s current enrollment.

Exceptions

Extensions for maternity or parental leave of up to 12 months may be considered with proper justification.

Application Procedure

The application process for the Quebec Government Merit Scholarship is structured into several key steps, each with specific deadlines and requirements:

Step 1: University Preselection

Internal Deadline: July 15, 2024. Applicants must ensure that their application reaches their chosen university department by this date.
Action Plan:
- Contact Your Department: Reach out to the relevant department at your selected Quebec university to begin the application process. They will provide guidance on the specific requirements and procedures.
- Prepare Documents: Gather and prepare the necessary documents, which typically include:
  - A completed application form.
  - A copy of a valid passport or citizenship documentation.
  - A letter from the department director confirming eligibility for the scholarship.
  - Two letters of recommendation.
  - Recent official academic transcripts and diplomas.
  - Proof of current enrollment, if applicable.

Step 2: FRQNT Final Selection

University Nomination: If your university selects your application, it will be forwarded to the FRQNT by September 13, 2024.
FRQNT Review: The FRQNT will evaluate the preselected applications and invite shortlisted candidates to submit a final application.
Final Application Submission: Those invited to the final round will receive instructions to submit their final application by November 1, 2024.

Selection Results

The FRQNT will announce the scholarship recipients in April 2025. Applicants are advised to stay tuned for the results and prepare accordingly.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Begin the application process as soon as possible. Early preparation can significantly enhance your chances of success.
Engage with Your University Department: Maintain regular contact with your department for updates and guidance. They can provide valuable assistance to ensure your application meets all internal deadlines and requirements.

APPLY.

FAQ

1. Who is eligible for the Quebec Government Merit Scholarship?

The scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities (except Canadian citizens). Applicants must not be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and should not have applied for permanent residency in Canada. They must also not have previously received the Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (MEES).

2. What types of programs are covered by the scholarship?

The Quebec Government Merit Scholarship supports a variety of research and study programs, including:

Master’s programs (research-based with a thesis)
Doctoral programs
Postdoctoral research
Short-term research and development projects

3. What financial support does the scholarship provide?

The scholarship offers substantial financial aid, which includes:

Master’s Research: $20,000 per year for up to two years.
Doctoral Research: $25,000 per year for up to three years, with a possible one-year extension of $1,000 per month.
Postdoctoral Fellowship: $35,000 for one year.
Short-Term Research/Development: $3,000 per month for up to four months.

4. Are there any tuition fee reductions for scholarship recipients?

Yes, recipients of the Quebec Government Merit Scholarship are exempt from the higher tuition fees usually charged to international students, which significantly reduces their educational costs.

5. Does the scholarship include healthcare coverage?

Yes, scholarship recipients receive health insurance coverage through Quebec’s health insurance plan, ensuring they are protected during their stay.

6. What are the specific eligibility criteria for each scholarship type?

Master’s Research: Must be enrolled in a research-based master’s program with a thesis and have completed no more than three semesters (one year) by May 1, 2025.
Doctoral Research: Must be within the first nine semesters of their doctoral program (excluding funded semesters). Direct PhD applicants without a master’s thesis may apply for semesters seven to fifteen.
Postdoctoral: Must have obtained their PhD within the past two years or submitted their thesis by January 15, 2024. Postdoctoral research must be conducted at a different institution than where the PhD was completed.
Short-Term Research/Development: Must be a technical or university student (Option A) or a researcher with a PhD completed within the past five years (Option B). Research must be conducted at a different institution than the current enrollment.

7. What is the application process?

The application process consists of two main steps:

University Preselection: Submit your application to your university department by July 15, 2024. Prepare all required documents, including application forms, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and proof of enrollment.
FRQNT Final Selection: If preselected, your university will forward your application to the FRQNT by September 13, 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to submit a final application by November 1, 2024. Final results will be announced in April 2025.

8. Can extensions be granted for special circumstances?

Yes, extensions for maternity or parental leave of up to 12 months may be granted with proper justification.

9. When is the application deadline and how can I get assistance?

University Preselection Deadline: July 15, 2024.
FRQNT Final Application Deadline: November 1, 2024 (if invited). Contact your chosen Quebec university’s department early for guidance and assistance with your application to meet all internal deadlines and requirements.

10. What should I do if I have further questions or need help?

Contact Your University Department: They can provide specific details and guidance.
Check the Official FRQNT Website: For detailed information on eligibility, benefits and application procedures.
Seek Advice from Current Scholars: Connect with past or current scholarship recipients to gain insights and tips.