UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship 2026 in Canada | $80,000 Grant

The UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious awards offered at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada. Designed for both Canadian and international students, including Nigerians, this scholarship provides outstanding doctoral candidates with financial support to advance their research and academic careers.

The award offers a total grant of $80,000 (CAD 40,000 annually for two years), making it one of the highest-value scholarships available at UBC. It is ideal for Nigerian students who want to pursue their PhD in Canada without worrying about tuition fees and living costs.

UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship 2026 Summary

• Host University: University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada
• Country: Canada
• Program Level: PhD Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships
• Eligible Applicants: All countries (including Nigeria)
• Funding Value: $40,000 per year for 2 years ($80,000 total)
• Language Requirement: No IELTS required (if previous study was in English)
• Application Deadline: September 9, 2025

About the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship

The Killam Doctoral Scholarship is funded by the Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Fund for Advanced Studies, established through the will of Dorothy J. Killam. The Killam legacy supports advanced education and research at leading Canadian universities.

UBC is one of five Canadian institutions that award Killam Scholarships, and recipients are expected to demonstrate academic excellence, strong research potential, and leadership ability. The scholarships are awarded annually to students who are likely to make a significant contribution to their field of study or distinguish themselves professionally.

For Nigerian students, this is an incredible chance to join one of the world’s leading research universities while receiving full financial support.

Eligibility Requirements for UBC Killam Scholarship 2026

To be considered for the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Doctoral Study Duration: Must have completed no more than 24 months of doctoral study by September 1, 2025.
2. Academic Excellence: Must demonstrate an outstanding academic record at the master’s or undergraduate level.
3. Research Proposal: Must present a well-structured, feasible, and impactful research proposal.
4. Evaluation Criteria: Applications are consider based on:
   • Research ability and potential (50%) – proposal quality, methodology, significance, and contributions to the field.
   • Academic achievements and experiences (50%) – scholarships, distinctions, teaching, publications, community involvement, and leadership roles.
5. Eligible Nationalities: Open to both Canadian and international students. 

Benefits of the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship

The Killam Scholarship is among the most generous awards for PhD students in Canada. Benefits include:

• Financial Support: $40,000 CAD per year for two years, totaling $80,000 CAD.
• Prestige: Recognition as one of the most competitive doctoral awards in Canada.
• Research Support: Funding can cover tuition, living expenses, and research-related costs.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to a global community of researchers and Killam Scholars.
• Career Advancement: Enhances academic and professional profile, making recipients competitive in the global job market.

For Nigerians, this financial package eliminates the financial burden of studying abroad and allows full focus on research excellence.

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How to Apply for UBC Killam Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)

Here is the application process for the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship:

1. Visit the UBC Scholarship Webpage: Access the official portal for Killam Scholarships.
2. Download the Application Form: Complete all required sections carefully.
3. Prepare Supporting Documents: These may include academic transcripts, research proposals, reference letters, and CV.
4. Submit to Graduate Studies: Applications are reviewed by UBC’s College of Graduate Studies Scholarship and Awards Committee.
5. Adjudication Committee Review: UBC faculty members review and rank applicants.
6. Results Released: Outcomes are announced in Spring 2025.

Click here to apply for the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship 2026

Why Nigerian Students Should Apply

The UBC Killam Scholarship 2026 is particularly valuable for Nigerian students because:

• Canada is a top destination for Nigerian postgraduate students due to its welcoming immigration policies.
• The scholarship provides full financial coverage, removing barriers of high international tuition fees.
• Nigerian students can access world-class research facilities at UBC.
• UBC has a large African student community, offering cultural and academic support.
• The award strengthens career prospects both in Canada and internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the UBC Killam Doctoral Scholarship?
   Students from all countries, including Nigeria, who have completed no more than 24 months of doctoral study.
2. How much is the scholarship worth?
   $40,000 CAD per year, renewable for two years ($80,000 total).
3. Do I need IELTS to apply as a Nigerian?
   No, if your prior degree was taught in English, UBC does not require IELTS.
4. What is the deadline for application?
   The application deadline is September 9, 2025.
5. What level of study is supported?
   The scholarship supports PhD students at UBC.