University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF) offer generous, fully funded opportunities for both Canadian and international students enrolled in full-time Master’s and PhD programs at one of Canada’s top research universities. This comprehensive University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF) guide provides detailed information on scholarship value, application procedures, eligibility, required documents, deadlines, and tips to help you successfully apply in 2025.
🏅 1. What is the University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)?
The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF) are prestigious, merit-based scholarships awarded to outstanding students pursuing full-time graduate studies at the University of Manitoba. Open to both domestic and international students, these awards support high-achieving Master’s and Doctoral candidates in their academic and research pursuits across a broad range of fields.
🎓 2. Why Choose the University of Manitoba?
- Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba – known for its affordability and cultural diversity.
- Reputation: One of Canada’s leading research institutions, with a legacy since 1877.
- Graduate Strength: More than 5,000 graduate students, with strong supervision and research networks.
- Facilities: World-class labs, libraries, research centers, and student services.
- Opportunities: Access to cutting-edge research and industry collaborations.
đź’µ 3. UMGF Scholarship Value & Duration
UMGF awards provide substantial financial assistance:
- Master’s students receive up to $14,000 annually, for up to 2 years.
- PhD students are awarded up to $18,000 per year, for a maximum of 4 years.
Students must maintain satisfactory academic standing and full-time enrollment to retain their funding.
âś… 4. Who is Eligible for UMGF?
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be accepted into a full-time graduate program (Master’s or PhD) at the University of Manitoba.
- Hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 (B or equivalent) in their most recent two years of study.
- Not be in receipt of a full external scholarship (partial funding is permitted).
- Must meet departmental eligibility criteria as well.
👉 Some faculties may impose higher academic thresholds, so always verify with your specific department.
đź“š 5. Fields & Programs Covered by UMGF
Almost all graduate programs across faculties are eligible, including:
- Engineering and Technology
- Health Sciences and Medicine
- Agriculture and Food Sciences
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Business and Economics
- Education and Social Work
- Natural and Environmental Sciences
- Law (research-based degrees like LLM)
Professional degrees without a research component (e.g., MBA, MD) typically do not qualify.
đź“ť 6. How to Apply for UMGF (Step-by-Step)
There is no direct application to UMGF via the university’s main portal. Instead, the process works like this:
đź“Ś Step-by-Step Process:
- Apply for admission to a graduate program at UManitoba.
- Notify your department about your interest in the UMGF.
- If eligible, your department nominates you for the fellowship.
- Submit any additional documents your department may require.
- The Faculty of Graduate Studies reviews nominations and issues award letters.
Note: Some departments consider students automatically; others may have internal forms.
đź“„ 7. Documents Typically Required
Documents needed for UMGF nomination generally include:
- A completed internal UMGF application form (if required)
- Personal Statement or Research Proposal
- Academic CV or resume
- Letters of Recommendation (2 or 3)
- Official academic transcripts
- English language test scores (if applicable)
Always consult your department for program-specific requirements.
🧠8. Evaluation & Selection Process
The UMGF is highly competitive and based solely on academic and research merit. Evaluation factors include:
- Academic excellence (grades, distinctions, awards)
- Research background and potential (experience, output, involvement)
- Quality of the research proposal
- Strength of recommendation letters
- Fit with departmental research goals and faculty expertise
No interviews are usually required unless specified by the department.
📆 9. Application Timeline & Deadlines (2025–2026)
UMGF deadlines vary depending on your department. Most nominations occur between March and June each year. To stay ahead:
| Activity | Expected Timeline |
|---|---|
| Apply to graduate program | Jan – Mar 2025 |
| UMGF interest/nomination opens | Feb – Apr 2025 |
| Department deadline for UMGF | Mar – Jun 2025 |
| Award decisions released | May – Aug 2025 |
| Start of funding | Sept 2025 (Fall intake) |
📢 Pro Tip: Ask your department for their internal UMGF nomination deadline well in advance.
🧩 10. Application Strategy: How to Win UMGF
Winning the UMGF requires more than just good grades. Follow these best practices:
- Start early: Contact supervisors and prepare your application well before deadlines.
- Write a compelling, research-driven Statement of Purpose or Proposal.
- Select referees who know you well and can speak to your academic potential.
- Highlight research achievements, such as publications, internships, or conference papers.
- Align your interests with faculty and departmental research areas.
- Tailor your documents for clarity, structure, and professionalism.
🏙️ 11. Graduate Life in Manitoba
- Affordable Living: Winnipeg is among the lowest-cost cities in Canada for students.
- Vibrant Community: A multicultural hub with events, cultural festivals, and diverse cuisine.
- Student Services: Career support, mental health resources, and academic workshops.
- Campus Living: On-campus housing and graduate student housing options are available.
- Work & PR Pathways: UMGF recipients on study permits can work part-time and become eligible for post-graduation work permits and PR programs.
âť“ 12. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can international students apply for UMGF?
âś… Yes. The scholarship is open to international and Canadian students.
Q2: Do I need a separate application for UMGF?
📝 No central application exists—nomination happens through your department.
Q3: Can I combine UMGF with other awards?
đź’ˇ Yes, but the combined value of all funding may affect your UMGF eligibility.
Q4: How will I know if I’ve been selected?
📬 Departments will notify you, followed by an official letter from Graduate Studies.
Q5: Is UMGF renewable?
🎓 Yes, provided you meet academic requirements, it continues annually up to the max duration.
đź“Ž 13. Final Thoughts + Resources
The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships (UMGF) are a prestigious and generous way to fund your graduate education in Canada. Whether you’re pursuing groundbreaking research or advancing your academic goals, UMGF provides a strong platform at a globally recognized institution.
