The Canadian International Development Scholarship (CIDSA), funded by Global Affairs Canada, offers students from developing nations a fully supported pathway to pursue bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees at Canada’s top universities while contributing to sustainable development in their home countries.
The CIDSA program is part of Canada’s efforts to empower future leaders from low- and middle-income countries through education. Hosted by renowned institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, this scholarship supports studies in fields critical to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- Public Health & Epidemiology
- Climate Science & Renewable Energy
- Gender Equality & Social Justice
- Education & Public Policy
- Agricultural Innovation & Food Security
Program Overview
- Duration: Eight years (2022–2030)
- Funding: CAD 80 million provided by Global Affairs Canada
- Beneficiaries: Over 7,000 scholars, with a commitment that at least 51% are women
- Focus Areas: STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Artificial Intelligence, Green and Blue Economies, Climate Action, Health Sciences, and Governance and Administration
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition waiver: Covers all academic fees for the duration of your program.
- Monthly stipend:
- Undergraduate: Up to CAD 1,200/month for living expenses.
- Graduate: Up to CAD 2,500/month (PhD students may receive higher amounts).
- Travel allowance: Round-trip economy airfare to Canada.
- Health insurance: Comprehensive coverage for medical expenses.
- Research grants: Funding for fieldwork, conferences, and publications.
- Pre-departure training: Workshops on cross-cultural adaptation and leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to citizens of developing countries (eligible nations listed on the Global Affairs Canada website).
- Academic excellence:
- Undergraduate: Top 15% in high school exams.
- Graduate: Prior degree in a relevant field (minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 or equivalent).
- Leadership potential: Demonstrated through community service, advocacy, or professional work.
- Language proficiency: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 (English) or DALF B2 (French), depending on the program.
- Commitment to returning to your home country post-studies to apply your skills.
Participating Countries
The program targets 26 partner countries, primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa, including but not limited to:
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cameroon
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- Tanzania
- Uganda
How to Apply
- Choose your program: Browse eligible courses on the Canadian Universities Association portal.
- Prepare documents:
- Academic transcripts and diplomas (certified translations if needed).
- CV/resume, statement of purpose (aligning with SDGs), and research proposal (for graduate applicants).
- Two recommendation letters (academic or professional).
- Proof of English/French proficiency.
- Submit online: Apply through the CIDSA Application Portal.
- Deadline: Expected January–February 2025 (confirm exact dates on the portal).
