The Ontario Graduate Scholarship is for high-achieving graduate students in all fields of study. As a healthcare professional in medicine, nursing, or pharmacy you can access this scholarship if you meet certain conditions. The Ontario government and participating Ontario universities’ joint initiative provides financial aid to high-achieving graduate students. This covers both domestic and international students. As a recipient, you can pursue your Master’s or Doctoral degrees at participating Ontario universities.
In this blog post, we will explore what the OGS program is all about, who it is created for, and what makes it unique and special. Find out how you stand to benefit from this program.
Who is the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program Created For?
The scholarship cuts across all fields of study. It is also ideal for students pursuing advanced degrees in health-related fields, including:
- Medicine: Medical students focusing on research and advanced medical studies.
- Nursing: Nursing students aim to advance their knowledge and skills in patient care, research, and healthcare management.
- Pharmacy: Pharmacy students involved in pharmaceutical research, drug development, and healthcare services.
Selection Process: Applications are evaluated based on three main criteria:
For Master’s Level:
- Academic Excellence (30%): Transcripts, academic achievements, program type, course load, duration, prior scholarships, and awards.
- Research Potential and Statement of Interest (30%):
- Statement of interest, relevance of work experience
- Significance and merit of proposed research
- Initiative, and contribution to research and development.
- Personal Characteristics and Academic Assessment from Referees (20%): Work experience, leadership experience, involvement in academic life, and project management skills.
For Doctoral Level:
Academic Excellence (30%): Academic records, scholarships, and awards received, duration of previous courses.
Research Potential (50%)
- Plan of study
- Judgment and originality
- Initiative and autonomy
- Interaction with supervisors and peers
- Ability to lead and complete projects within the allotted time.
Personal Characteristics and Academic Assessment from Referees (20%)
- Quality of presentation, publications, professional extracurricular interactions, and mentoring.
Also Read: 7 Best Scholarship Opportunities for Nursing Students in Canada
Value and Duration of Ontario Scholarship
The value of the Ontario Graduate Scholarship is CAD 5,000 per academic term. The duration and total value of the scholarship depend on the number of terms in an academic year:
- For Universities with Two Terms per Year: The scholarship provides CAD 10,000 annually.
- For Universities with Three Terms per Year: The scholarship offers CAD 15,000 annually.
The scholarship can be awarded for:
- Up to 2 academic years for master’s degree students.
- Up to 3 academic years for doctoral degree students.
Number of Scholarships and Allocation
The OGS program offers 22 merit-based scholarships to students across various academic disciplines. The Government of Ontario allocates these scholarships to different universities within the province. They specify the number of awards each university can offer annually.
Application Process
Each university’s graduate unit is responsible for administering the application process and evaluating the applications. Here are the key steps involved:
- Application Submission: Students must apply through the graduate unit of their respective university.
- Evaluation: Applications are evaluated based on several criteria, including:
- Academic excellence
- Research potential
- Leadership skills
- Selection: The graduate unit makes the final selection, ensuring the candidates meet the eligibility and merit requirements.
Eligibility Criteria for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship
To be eligible for the OGS, you must meet one of the following citizenship requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident at the time of application.
- Be an international student studying at an Ontario university with a valid Canadian study permit.
- Students protected under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada) are also eligible.
Academic Requirements
You must fulfill the following academic criteria:
- Maintain an A – average (Ontario equivalent of 80%) in the two years of full-time study before receiving the scholarship.
- International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Be registered full-time in a graduate degree program, defined as:
- 60% or more of a full course load as specified by the university.
- 40% or more for students with disabilities.
Also Read: 5 Health-related Courses You Can Easily Get an International Scholarship For
Conclusion
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) is an excellent opportunity if you are keen on research as a medical worker. You can take advantage of this scholarship if you are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or an international student with a valid study permit. This scholarship can provide significant financial support for your graduate studies.
If you meet the academic requirements and demonstrate research potential and leadership skills, you can contribute to the academic community in Ontario. If you are committed to academic excellence and ready to take your research to the next level, the OGS is for you. Be sure to check the specific application procedures and deadlines at your university to take advantage of this valuable opportunity.
FAQs on the Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
How much financial support does the OGS program provide?
The value of each OGS award is $5,000 per term, up to a maximum of $15,000 per year. This funding can help cover tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
How do I apply for the OGS program?
The application process involves several steps:
- Ensure you meet all academic, enrollment, and residency requirements.
- Gather necessary documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal.
- Apply through your university’s graduate studies office by the specified deadline.
- Await notification of the results.
When are the application deadlines for the OGS program?
Application deadlines vary by university, so it is important to check with your institution’s graduate studies office for specific dates.
Can international students apply for the OGS program?
No, the OGS program is only open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons under subsection 95(2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Canada).
What documents are required for the OGS application?
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Letters of recommendation from academic referees.
- A detailed research proposal outlining your study goals and methodology.
How do they select OGS recipients?
They select OGS recipients on the basis of academic excellence, research potential, and the strength of their application, including the quality of their research proposal and letters of recommendation.
