Canada FALL 2026: Undergraduate Research Awards 2026–2027 | $6,000 Research Scholarship for Students. Apply Now!
Canada Undergraduate Research Awards 2026–2027 | $6,000 Research Scholarship for Students. Apply Now! Applications are now open for the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) 2026–2027, providing undergraduate students with an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience while receiving financial support.
The programme is designed to encourage talented students to pursue research careers and graduate studies by allowing them to work on research projects under the supervision of experienced researchers. The funding opportunity offers $6,000 per award plus a contribution from the host institution, with approximately 165 awards available.
About the Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA)
The Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) programme supports undergraduate students interested in building research skills and exploring future careers in academia, science, health research, engineering, social sciences, and related fields.
The programme aims to:
- Develop research skills among undergraduate students
- Encourage future graduate studies
- Provide practical research experience
- Support the next generation of researchers
- Strengthen research capacity across Canadian institutions
The awards are administered through eligible Canadian universities and institutions.
Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) |
| Organization | Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) |
| Academic Level | Undergraduate |
| Award Value | $6,000 + Institutional Contribution |
| Number of Awards | Approximately 165 |
| Country | Canada |
| Funding Period | Summer, Fall, and Winter Terms |
| Application Method | Through Eligible Institutions |
Funding Available
The total funding available for this competition is:
CAD $990,000
Funding will support approximately:
165 Awards
Each award includes:
CAD $6,000
plus an additional contribution from the host institution.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the CIHR USRA programme, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria established by the programme and participating institutions.
One important eligibility requirement for the current CIHR and SSHRC USRA competitions is that applicants must:
Self-Identify as Black
to be considered for these specific awards.
Applicants should review all institutional and programme-specific requirements before applying.
Research Areas Supported
The awards support research opportunities in areas including:
- Health Sciences
- Medical Research
- Public Health
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Innovation and Technology
The programme is intended to help students gain valuable research experience that complements their academic studies.
Competition Periods
The USRA programme supports awards during:
Summer 2026
Fall 2026
Winter 2027
Participating institutions may run one or more selection cycles throughout the year.
Application Deadlines
Summer 2026 Competition
Application Deadline:
📅 1 May 2026
Fall 2026 Competition
Application Deadline:
📅 1 October 2026
Winter 2027 Competition
Application Deadline:
📅 15 January 2027
Applicants should note that individual universities may establish earlier internal deadlines.
How to Apply
Interested students should:
- Identify an eligible Canadian institution.
- Contact the institution’s USRA Liaison Officer.
- Complete the required application forms.
- Submit the application through NSERC’s online system.
- Meet all institutional deadlines and requirements.
Applications are submitted through participating institutions rather than directly to CIHR.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Paid Research Experience
Students receive financial support while participating in meaningful research projects.
Graduate School Preparation
The programme helps students develop research skills and strengthen applications for future graduate studies.
Professional Development
Participants gain experience working alongside researchers, faculty members, and academic teams.
Nationally Recognized Programme
USRA awards are among Canada’s most recognized undergraduate research funding opportunities.
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