The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) program is one of Canada’s most prestigious funding opportunities for full-time graduate students pursuing academic excellence. Established in 1975, this scholarship is funded by the Government of Ontario and various Ontario universities, including the University of Toronto. It is designed to support students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in all fields of study at publicly funded universities across Ontario.
The OGS is a golden opportunity for exceptional international and domestic students to pursue advanced studies in a world-class academic environment. With its merit-based selection process, the scholarship rewards dedication, academic excellence, and research potential. Here’s everything you need to know about this scholarship at the University of Toronto, one of the most prestigious institutions in Canada.
Why Choose the Ontario Graduate Scholarship?
- Funding Excellence: Competitive scholarships with generous funding to support academic goals.
- Prestigious Recognition: Being an OGS recipient enhances your academic and professional profile.
- Opportunities at a Top University: The University of Toronto offers unparalleled research facilities and academic guidance.
- Support for All Fields of Study: Available to graduate students across diverse disciplines.
Details of Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
| Country | Canada |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) |
| Institution | University of Toronto (and other publicly funded Ontario universities) |
| Eligibility | Full-time graduate students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees- Good standing with OSAP |
| Value | $5,000 per session |
| Duration | $10,000 for two consecutive sessions- $15,000 for three consecutive sessions |
| Funding Source | Joint funding by the Government of Ontario and the University of Toronto |
| Required Documents | OGS Application Form- Transcripts- Plan of Study (2 pages)- Two academic references |
| Application Process | Apply via the University of Toronto’s online platform- Submit to each graduate unit separately |
| International Student Eligibility | Valid study permit required by the graduate unit’s internal deadline |
| Work Limitations | Part-time work allowed- Full-time employment not permitted during award period |
| Non-Transferable | OGS awards cannot be transferred between universities or graduate units |
| Application Deadline | Varies by graduate unit (check specific internal deadlines) |
Value & Duration of the Scholarship
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship offers:
- Value: $5,000 per academic session.
- Duration: $10,000 for two consecutive sessions. $15,000 for three consecutive sessions.
Recipients will receive funding for a maximum of one year, i.e., two or three academic sessions. One-third of the total award cost will be contributed by the awarding graduate unit.
This generous funding enables graduate students to focus on their academic and research goals without financial constraints, making the OGS an excellent choice for those seeking academic success.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Full-Time Enrollment:
- Must be a full-time student at the University of Toronto in an eligible graduate program.
- Students must maintain full-time status throughout the award period.
- Good Academic Standing:
- Students must have an excellent academic record and meet the standards of the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
- Those who have defaulted on loans under OSAP or failed repayment are ineligible.
- Permitted Activities During Award Period:
- Research assistantships, part-time teaching, and other employment are allowed, provided they do not interfere with full-time student status.
- Full-time paid employment is not permitted during the award tenure.
- Non-Duplication of Funding:
- Students cannot hold an OGS award alongside other major scholarships, such as SSHRC, NSERC, CIHR, or QEII-GSST.
Note: Each graduate unit may have additional eligibility requirements, so applicants are advised to confirm specific details with their respective departments.
List of Participating OGS Universities
- Brock University
- Carleton University
- University of Guelph
- Lakehead University
- Laurentian University
- McMaster University
- Nipissing University
- OCAD University
- University of Ontario Institute of Technology
- University of Ottawa
- Queen’s University
- Ryerson University
- University of Toronto
- Trent University
- University of Waterloo
- Western University
- Wilfrid Laurier University
- University of Windsor
- York University
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents for their application:
- OGS Application Form: Submit via the University of Toronto’s centralized online application platform.
- Transcripts: Include transcripts from all post-secondary institutions (unofficial transcripts like ACORN screenshots are accepted).
- Plan of Study: A two-page document (1 page for the plan and 1 page for references/citations).
- Academic References: Two referees must submit their recommendations online.
- Awards and Research History: Include details of previous awards, publications, conference participation, and research experience.
Ensure all documents are submitted before the graduate unit’s internal deadline to avoid disqualification.
How to Apply for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
The application process for OGS is straightforward but requires careful attention to deadlines and requirements:
- Access the Online Application: Visit the University of Toronto School of Graduate Studies’ online platform.
- Complete the Application: Follow the OGS application instructions carefully. Ensure accuracy in all provided details.
- Submit to Graduate Units: Each graduate unit sets its own internal deadlines. Submit separate applications for each graduate unit or Ontario university you are applying to.
- Graduate Unit Review: Applications are reviewed internally by the respective graduate unit. A limited number of applications are forwarded to the School of Graduate Studies for centralized adjudication.
Note: OGS awards are non-transferable between universities or graduate units at the University of Toronto.
- Eligibility for International Students: International students holding a valid study permit by the graduate unit’s internal deadline can apply. The application process remains the same as for domestic students.
Conclusion
The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) at the University of Toronto offers exceptional funding opportunities for domestic and international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees. With a focus on academic excellence and research potential, the OGS empowers students to thrive in their graduate studies at one of Canada’s top universities.
Don’t miss this chance to advance your academic career. Check the official University of Toronto website for application instructions and deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the OGS if I’m an international student?
Yes, international students holding a valid study permit by the graduate unit’s application deadline are eligible to apply.
2. Can I hold other scholarships alongside the OGS?
No, the OGS cannot be held simultaneously with other major scholarships such as SSHRC, NSERC, CIHR, or QEII-GSST.
3. How many sessions can the OGS cover?
The scholarship covers two or three consecutive sessions, depending on the funding awarded.
4. Are OGS awards transferable between universities?
No, OGS awards are non-transferable between universities or graduate units at the University of Toronto.
5. Can I work while holding an OGS?
Yes, part-time research assistantships or teaching positions are allowed, provided they do not affect full-time student status. Full-time employment is not permitted.
6. What is the deadline for applying?
Each graduate unit at the University of Toronto sets its own internal deadlines, so be sure to check with your respective unit for specific dates.
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