With the increasing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and data science professionals, Canadian universities, government agencies, and private organizations are offering scholarships to support students in these fields.
This guide covers:
- Top AI & Data Science Scholarships in Canada
- Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
- Tips for Securing a Scholarship
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Top AI and Data Science Scholarships in Canada (2025)
1. Vector Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence
💰 Award: $17,500 for one year
🎓 Eligibility:
- Students enrolling in an AI-related master’s program at an Ontario university
- Strong academic performance and research potential in AI
📅 Deadline: Varies by university
🔗 Website: Vector Institute
2. Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii) Scholarships
💰 Award: Varies (funding for master’s and PhD students)
🎓 Eligibility:
- Graduate students pursuing AI research in Alberta
- Must be enrolled at the University of Alberta or an affiliated institution
📅 Deadline: University-specific deadlines apply
🔗 Website: Amii
3. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M) (AI & Data Science Focus)
💰 Award: $17,500 for one year
🎓 Eligibility:
- Master’s students conducting AI or data science research
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents
📅 Deadline: December 2024
🔗 Website: NSERC
4. Mitacs Globalink Research Awards (AI & Data Science Focus)
💰 Award: $6,000 for international research projects
🎓 Eligibility:
- Undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students conducting research in AI/data science
- Canadian or international students
📅 Deadline: Rolling applications
🔗 Website: Mitacs
5. Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS) (AI & Data Science Specialization)
💰 Award: Up to $15,000 per year
🎓 Eligibility:
- Master’s and PhD students in AI or data science at Ontario universities
- Strong academic performance
📅 Deadline: Varies by university
🔗 Website: Ontario Government
6. DeepMind Scholarships for AI & Machine Learning
💰 Award: Full tuition + living expenses
🎓 Eligibility:
- Underrepresented students in AI/ML programs
- Available at select Canadian universities (e.g., UofT, UBC, McGill)
📅 Deadline: Varies by institution
🔗 Website: DeepMind
7. CIFAR AI & Data Science Scholarships
💰 Award: Varies (research funding for AI PhD students)
🎓 Eligibility:
- PhD students conducting AI research at Canadian institutions
- Affiliation with a CIFAR AI Research Chair preferred
📅 Deadline: Institution-specific deadlines apply
🔗 Website: CIFAR
8. University-Specific AI & Data Science Scholarships
Many top universities in Canada offer their own AI and data science scholarships, such as:
- University of Toronto – AI Research Awards
- University of British Columbia – Data Science Excellence Scholarships
- McGill University – AI & Machine Learning Fellowships
- University of Waterloo – AI Research Fund
Check individual university websites for details.
Eligibility Criteria & Application Process
Eligibility Requirements
- Academic Excellence: Most require a minimum GPA of 3.5+
- AI/Data Science Focus: Must be pursuing AI, ML, data science, or a related field
- Research Proposal: Graduate students may need a well-defined research project
- University Enrollment: Some scholarships are university-specific
- Citizenship Status: Some are open to international students, while others are for Canadian citizens only
Application Process
- Research Scholarships – Identify opportunities based on your academic level.
- Prepare Required Documents – These typically include:
- Academic transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Research proposal (for graduate students)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Submit Online Applications – Most scholarships require submission through university portals or official scholarship websites.
- Follow Up – Some awards may require interviews or additional documentation.
Tips for Securing an AI & Data Science Scholarship
✔ Highlight Research & Technical Skills – Show your experience with AI projects, coding (Python, R, TensorFlow), and research work.
✔ Demonstrate Innovation – Explain how your research or studies will contribute to AI/data science advancements.
✔ Get Strong Letters of Recommendation – Ask professors or mentors familiar with your work.
✔ Write a Strong Personal Statement – Emphasize your passion for AI, career goals, and why you deserve the scholarship.
✔ Apply to Multiple Scholarships – Increases your chances of receiving funding.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are AI & data science scholarships only for graduate students?
No. While many scholarships target master’s and PhD students, some (like Mitacs) are available for undergraduates.
2. Can international students apply for AI scholarships in Canada?
Yes! Some scholarships, such as DeepMind Scholarships and Mitacs Globalink, are open to international students.
3. What GPA do I need to qualify for AI scholarships?
Most require a minimum GPA of 3.5 or higher, but competitive scholarships may require a 3.7+ GPA.
4. Do I need to have research experience to apply for these scholarships?
For undergraduate scholarships, research experience is not always required. However, for graduate and PhD funding, research proposals and AI project experience are crucial.
5. Can I combine multiple AI scholarships?
Yes! Many students receive multiple awards to cover tuition, research, and living expenses.
6. When should I start applying for AI & data science scholarships?
It’s best to start at least 6 months in advance. Some deadlines are as early as November or December for the following academic year.
7. Are there AI scholarships specifically for women or underrepresented groups?
Yes! Scholarships like DeepMind AI Scholarships and Women in AI Fellowships are designed to support diversity in AI.
Final Thoughts
Pursuing a career in AI and data science is exciting, and Canada offers many scholarship opportunities to support students in these fields. Whether you’re an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD student, there’s funding available to help you achieve your academic and research goals.
🔹 Best Advice? Apply to multiple scholarships, showcase your passion for AI, and emphasize your technical skills and research potential. 🚀
Would you like help with a scholarship application essay or finding university-specific funding? 😊
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