FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships 2026 are now open, making the pursuit of a PhD both intellectually rewarding and financially sustainable. For students passionate about natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering, this program offers one of the most attractive funding opportunities in Canada.
Administered by the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies (FRQNT), this program offers generous financial support to both Canadian and international students pursuing doctoral studies in Quebec. With an annual funding of $25,000 for up to four years, the scholarship not only eases financial burdens but also promotes research in areas that have a global impact, such as artificial intelligence, clean technologies, and climate change.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, and expert tips to boost your chances of success.
Level of Study
- Doctoral (PhD)
Fields of Study
- Natural Sciences
- Mathematics
- Engineering
Specific areas of research encouraged include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Clean Technologies
- Climate Change
- Other Emerging Related Disciplines
Students may also explore the University of Ottawa International English Scholarships 2026 for additional funding options in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
The FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships have clear eligibility rules:
- Citizenship
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents with a valid RAMQ health insurance card.
- International students admitted to a Quebec university doctoral program, or those with a confirmed supervisor. Another great option for foreign researchers is the Quebec Government Merit Scholarship 2026 (PBEEE)
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents with a valid RAMQ health insurance card.
- Academic Requirements
- Applicants must not have completed more than 14 full-time terms of doctoral study by May 1, following the application deadline.
- Applicants must not have completed more than 14 full-time terms of doctoral study by May 1, following the application deadline.
- Institutional Requirements
- Enrollment or official acceptance into a recognized doctoral program at a Quebec university.
Benefits of the FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships
One of the main reasons this program stands out is the generosity of its funding package:
- Up to $100,000 in support — receive $25,000 annually for four years, giving you the financial freedom to pursue research without distraction.
- Funds go straight to you — payments are made directly to students once enrollment is confirmed.
- Global access — open to both Canadian and international PhD candidates, making it one of the most inclusive programs in Canada.
- Bilingual advantage — submit your application confidently in either English or French.
- Peace of mind — stable, long-term funding designed to let you channel full energy into academic and research excellence.
This financial support ensures doctoral candidates can dedicate themselves fully to advancing innovation in Canada while enjoying a high quality of life in Quebec.
Application Procedure
To ensure success, applicants should carefully prepare the required documents and follow this process step by step:
- Document Preparation
- Updated academic transcripts.
- Proof of admission or confirmation from a doctoral supervisor.
- Completed forms required by FRQNT.
- Updated academic transcripts.
- Application Portal
- Access the FRQnet electronic system, which opens at least one month before the deadline.
- Access the FRQnet electronic system, which opens at least one month before the deadline.
- Completing the Application
- Fill in all details accurately.
- Upload supporting documents.
- You may apply in French or English, but your project title must be submitted in French (mandatory rule).
- Fill in all details accurately.
- Submission Deadline
- All applications must be submitted by October 1, 2025.
- All applications must be submitted by October 1, 2025.
- University Confirmation
- Once accepted, your Quebec university (e.g., Concordia, McGill, Université Laval) will confirm full-time registration to FRQNT before the funds are disbursed.
Ready to apply? Submit your application through the FRQNT Official Scholarship Portal.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early – Begin gathering transcripts, research proposals, and supervisor confirmations well in advance.
- Craft a Strong Research Proposal – Highlight how your project aligns with FRQNT’s priority areas (AI, climate change, clean technologies).
- Language Precision – Even if your application is in English, ensure the project title in French is well-translated. Poor translations can hurt your evaluation.
- Seek Supervisor Guidance – Having a committed supervisor can significantly boost your application strength.
- Proofread Thoroughly – Clarity, grammar, and presentation matter for a competitive edge.
Key Dates To Keep In Mind
- Application Opens: September 2025 (via FRQnet system).
- Application Deadline: October 1, 2025.
Why Choose the FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships 2026?
The FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships are more than financial aid; they are a launchpad for research excellence and long-term career growth. Unlike many programs limited to local impact, this initiative contributes not only to Quebec’s development but also to the global scientific community. By funding students in critical fields such as artificial intelligence, climate resilience, and clean technologies, the scholarship supports breakthroughs that address some of today’s most pressing worldwide challenges.
For international students, this program offers life-changing opportunities, including:
- High-value research funding in Canada — receive generous financial support that lets you focus on research, not finances.
- Access to world-class networks — collaborate with leading scientists, universities, and research centers at the heart of innovation.
- Pathways to permanent residency — studying in Quebec can open doors to long-term career and immigration opportunities in Canada.
- Shaping the future of innovation — contribute to groundbreaking work in areas like artificial intelligence, clean technology, and climate change solutions.
By choosing the FRQNT scholarship, you’re not only advancing your academic journey but also positioning yourself as part of a global movement for sustainable innovation and scientific progress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply?
The scholarship is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students admitted to a recognized doctoral program at a Quebec university.
2. What is the value of the scholarship?
Recipients receive $25,000 per year for up to four years, totaling a maximum of $100,000.
3. Can international students apply?
Yes. International students are eligible if they are admitted to a Quebec doctoral program or have a confirmed supervisor.
4. What fields of study are covered?
Funding is available for natural sciences, mathematics, engineering, and emerging disciplines like artificial intelligence, clean technologies, and climate change research.
5. How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online via the FRQnet system by the deadline of October 1, 2025. Required documents include transcripts, proof of admission or supervisor confirmation, and a project title in French.
Final Thoughts
The FRQNT Doctoral Training Scholarships 2026 offer more than financial aid—they create a clear path for scholars to turn research into real-world solutions. With strong backing from Quebec’s research community and global relevance in high-demand fields, this program is a rare chance to secure funding, advance innovation, and position yourself for lasting academic and professional success.
