The University of British Columbia (UBC), located in Vancouver, Canada, is a globally renowned institution known for academic excellence, groundbreaking research, and a vibrant student community. With its state-of-the-art facilities, world-class faculty, and strong emphasis on experiential learning, UBC fosters innovation, leadership, and critical thinking among its students.
Beyond academics, UBC provides a multicultural and inclusive environment, attracting students and scholars from all over the world. The university’s strategic location in Vancouver, a hub of technology, arts, and outdoor recreation, offers students unparalleled opportunities for networking, career development, and personal growth.
UBC’s commitment to public engagement and interdisciplinary research is reflected in its various scholarship programs, including the prestigious Vancouver Public Scholars Awards, designed to support doctoral students dedicated to impactful and community-driven research.
Vancouver Public Scholars Awards 2025/2026
Host Institution: University of British Columbia (UBC)
Location: Canada
Study Level:PhD & Doctoral Programs
Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
Scholarship Value:Up to $10,000 (renewable, total of $20,000)
Eligible Applicants:International & Domestic Students
Available Fields of Study:All Subjects
Application Deadline:May 12, 2025
The Vancouver Public Scholars Awards (PSI Fellowship) is a prestigious funding initiative designed to support doctoral students engaged in public engagement and research that extends beyond academia.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, the fellowship provides up to $10,000 per student (renewable for a second term, totaling $20,000). The funding supports: Research expenses Professional development Travel & conference participation Student stipends
New for 2025/26:
A specialized Health Equity Stream, introduced in collaboration with UBC Health, provides additional funding for students researching health-related issues and equity-focused projects.
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Application Deadline:May 12, 2025 – Students are encouraged to prepare their applications well in advance.
Scholarship Benefits
1. Research Allowance & Funding Support Value:Up to $10,000 (renewable for a total of $20,000) Funding can be used for: Research projects & materials Professional development activities Travel & conference participation
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2. Student Stipend Value:Up to $10,000 per term Provided to students who lack funding for alternative research projects. Ensures students can fully commit to their academic and community-driven initiatives.
3. Health Equity Stream (NEW) Additional funding for doctoral students conducting research on: 🔹 Health equity & public health issues Community-based healthcare challenges
Approximately 30 students are selected each year for this competitive fellowship.
Eligibility Criteria
The Vancouver Public Scholars Awards are available to doctoral students at UBC Vancouver & UBC Okanagan.
Must be enrolled in a UBC doctoral program (PhD, EdD, DMA, or part-time PhD). Must be within the 1st to 5th year of study. Applicants must have completed their doctoral program within 48 months by August 31, 2023. In exceptional cases, students in their 6th year (48-60 months) may be considered. Must be engaged in research that contributes to public knowledge and societal impact.
Important Note: All funded students must: Submit a progress report at the end of each funding year. Present their research at the “PhDs Go Public” event organized by UBC.
Application Process
The PSI Fellowship application process is highly competitive and requires careful preparation.
Step 1: Download & Complete the Application Form Retrieve the “PSI Fellowship Application 2025-2026” and “PSI Fellowship Application Instructions” from UBC’s official website. Save the completed form under the file name: LastName_FirstName_PSI.
Step 2: Write a Research Proposal Submit a detailed proposal outlining: Proposed scholarly work (max 4,000 characters). How the research aligns with PSI’s public engagement goals. Expected impact on the community & society.
Step 3: Upload Documents to Qualtrics Merge the completed application form with your Canadian Common CV (CCV) into a single PDF. Upload the document via UBC’s Qualtrics submission portal.
Step 4: Obtain Supervisor & Collaborator Letters Request letters of support from your research supervisor and collaborators. Letters must be submitted separately via Qualtrics.
Step 5: Submit Application Before the Deadline
Ensure all required documents are submitted by May 12, 2025.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Pro Tip: Strong applications demonstrate a clear societal impact, public engagement, and interdisciplinary research approach.
Top-Ranked University: UBC is among the top 40 universities worldwide, known for cutting-edge research and innovation.
Global Learning Hub: Home to students from 150+ countries, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and academic diversity.
World-Class Research Facilities: UBC hosts state-of-the-art labs, centers, and interdisciplinary research institutes.
Exceptional Career Opportunities: UBC graduates benefit from strong employer connections, co-op programs, and internship placements.
Vibrant Campus Life in Vancouver: A perfect balance of academics, outdoor recreation, and cultural diversity.
UBC’s commitment to public engagement and interdisciplinary learning makes it a leading choice for PhD students seeking impact-driven research opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Transform Your Doctoral Journey with UBC’s PSI Fellowship
The University of British Columbia Vancouver Public Scholars Awards offer an incredible opportunity for PhD students committed to publicly engaged research and global impact.
Key Takeaways for Applicants: Apply if your research aligns with public engagement & societal impact. Secure strong letters of recommendation from supervisors & collaborators. Submit a well-structured research proposal with clear objectives & expected outcomes. Complete all application requirements before May 12, 2025.
Advance your research, contribute to society, and elevate your career with the UBC Public Scholars Initiative!
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