Simon Fraser University Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship 2027 | Study in Canada — Simon Fraser University
Drawing funding from both the university itself and individual private donors gives SFU’s graduate entrance scholarship system a genuinely mixed funding base, with award amounts varying considerably depending on which specific donor-funded award a student is matched with.
About the Fellowship
Simon Fraser University’s Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship provides $15,000 CAD over two terms specifically for incoming PhD students, representing one named award within SFU’s considerably broader graduate entrance scholarship system. Overall, SFU’s graduate entrance scholarships, funded by both the university and individual donors, range from approximately $7,000 to $50,000 CAD depending on the specific award.
A related option, the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship, known as GDES, offers between $1,000 and $8,000 CAD, with an annual maximum per year of $24,000 CAD, giving admitted graduate students a separate and potentially stackable funding pathway alongside named awards like the Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship.
Because SFU’s overall graduate scholarship system combines university funding with numerous individual donor-funded awards, international PhD applicants should research the full range of available named scholarships relevant to their specific department and research focus, rather than assuming the Simons Foundation award represents the university’s only doctoral entrance funding option.
As a research university with campuses across the Vancouver metropolitan area, including its main Burnaby campus, Simon Fraser University offers international PhD students access to strong programs in business, computing science, and the sciences, within British Columbia’s largest metropolitan region.
Fellowship Benefits
- A Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship of $15,000 CAD over two terms
- Access to SFU’s broader graduate entrance scholarship range of $7,000 to $50,000 CAD
- A Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 CAD, with an annual maximum of $24,000 CAD
- Access to SFU’s strong business, computing science, and science programs in the Vancouver metropolitan area
Eligibility Criteria
- You must be an incoming PhD student at Simon Fraser University for Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship consideration specifically
- You must meet SFU’s standard doctoral admission requirements for your specific program
- You may separately qualify for the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship or other donor-funded awards
- You must maintain good academic standing to retain ongoing funding
Fields of Study Covered
The fellowship and broader entrance scholarship system apply across Simon Fraser University’s graduate programs, with particular strength in business, computing science, and the sciences.
Required Documents
- A completed Simon Fraser University PhD program application
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- A statement of purpose or research interests, as required by your specific program
- Standardized test scores, if required by your department
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Apply for admission to your chosen PhD program at Simon Fraser University
- Submit all required application materials, including transcripts, recommendation letters, and your statement of purpose
- Research SFU’s broader range of donor-funded graduate entrance scholarships relevant to your department
- Complete your application by your program’s specific PhD application deadline
- Review your funding package details once you receive an admission offer
Selection Process
Individual departments at Simon Fraser University evaluate PhD applicants based on academic record, research fit, and potential, with named awards like the Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship applying according to each department’s specific practices and available donor funding.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Research SFU’s full range of donor-funded graduate entrance scholarships relevant to your specific department
- Submit a strong statement of purpose that clearly aligns with specific faculty research interests
- Confirm your eligibility for the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship as a potential supplemental funding source
- Compare this against other British Columbia graduate funding like the UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship when evaluating multiple program offers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Simons Foundation Doctoral Entrance Scholarship amount?
$15,000 CAD over two terms for incoming PhD students.
What is SFU’s overall graduate entrance scholarship range?
Approximately $7,000 to $50,000 CAD, funded by SFU and individual donors.
What is the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship?
A separate award ranging from $1,000 to $8,000 CAD, with an annual maximum of $24,000 CAD.
Can I combine multiple SFU graduate scholarships?
Confirm current SFU guidance directly regarding whether named awards and the Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship can be combined.
What is Simon Fraser University known for academically?
Strong programs in business, computing science, and the sciences.
Where are SFU’s campuses located?
Across the Vancouver metropolitan area, including the main Burnaby campus.
Is there a separate application for the Simons Foundation award?
Confirm current SFU guidance directly, though consideration generally happens through the standard PhD admissions review.
Can I combine this scholarship with external funding sources?
Check Simon Fraser University’s current policy on combining institutional scholarship funding with external scholarship sources.