The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship presents an outstanding opportunity for international students and researchers seeking financial support to pursue advanced studies and research in Canada. Through the Excellence Scholarships for International Students (PBEEE), the Government of Quebec aims to attract highly talented candidates from around the world and strengthen international research collaboration within Quebec’s higher education system.
Administered by the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Nature et technologies (FRQNT) on behalf of the Quebec Ministry of Higher Education, the programme supports master’s studies, doctoral studies, postdoctoral research and short-term research stays at Quebec universities, including the Université Laval.
About the University of Laval Excellence Scholarship
The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship is part of Quebec’s Excellence Scholarships for International Students programme. The initiative was created to encourage internationalization within Quebec’s universities and research institutions by attracting outstanding students and researchers from different parts of the world.
The programme supports academic excellence and promotes research partnerships between Quebec and international institutions. Through this scholarship, recipients can pursue advanced academic and research activities while benefiting from financial assistance designed to reduce the cost of studying and conducting research in Canada.
Scholarship Categories and Funding
The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship offers funding under four different categories.
Master’s Scholarships
Students pursuing a master’s degree may receive:
- $20,000 per year
- Funding for a maximum period of two years
Doctoral Scholarships
Doctoral candidates may receive:
- $25,000 per year
- Funding for up to four years
Postdoctoral Fellowships
Researchers undertaking postdoctoral studies may receive:
- $35,000 for one year
- Non-renewable funding
Short-Term Research or Professional Development Scholarships
University students and researchers participating in short-term research activities may receive:
- $3,000 per month
- Funding for a maximum duration of four months
Eligibility Requirements
The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship is intended for outstanding international students and researchers.
Applicants must:
- Be international candidates
- Apply for master’s, doctoral, postdoctoral or short-term research programmes
- Meet the admission requirements of the host institution
- Demonstrate strong academic achievement and research potential
- Obtain support from a faculty member willing to supervise their academic or research activities
One of the most important requirements is securing the support of a professor or faculty member who agrees to host the candidate and oversee their work during the scholarship period.
Pre-Selection Process
The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship uses a two-stage selection process.
For the 2027–2028 competition, applicants cannot apply directly to the final scholarship competition. Instead, they must first participate in an internal pre-selection process conducted by the university.
Only candidates selected during the university’s internal review will be invited to participate in the final competition administered by FRQNT.
This makes the pre-selection stage a critical step for all applicants seeking the scholarship.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on several factors, including:
- Academic excellence
- Research achievements
- Quality of the proposed research project
- Potential contribution to the academic community
- Strength of supervision arrangements
- Relevance of the proposed study or research activities
Given the competitive nature of the programme, applicants are encouraged to present strong academic records and clearly defined research objectives.
Benefits of Studying at Université Laval
Located in Quebec City, Université Laval is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities. It is recognised internationally for its contributions to research, innovation and graduate education.
Students and researchers benefit from:
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Opportunities for international collaboration
- A vibrant academic environment
- Strong support services for international students
- Connections with leading researchers across multiple disciplines
The scholarship allows recipients to focus on their academic and research goals while reducing financial pressure.
Application Deadline
17 June 2026
APPLY HERE
University of Laval Excellence Scholarship Application Portal
Important Information for Applicants
Applicants should note that the scholarship competition is highly selective. Securing a faculty supervisor early in the application process can significantly strengthen an application.
Candidates should also prepare all required academic documents well in advance and maintain regular communication with their prospective supervisor throughout the application process.
Results of the university’s internal competition are expected to be communicated towards the end of September following the pre-selection review.
The University of Laval Excellence Scholarship remains one of the most attractive funding opportunities for international students and researchers seeking to pursue advanced academic work in Canada.