Grants For Women
The Soroptimist Foundation of Canada annually ofers multiple $8,500 grants to female graduate students in Canada who are pursuing careers that focus on improving the quality of women’s lives. Examples of such careers include but are not limited to providing medical services, providing legal counselling and assistance, counselling mature women entering or re-entering the labour market, counselling women in crisis, counselling and training women for non-traditional employment, and positions in women’s centres.
To be eligible, a candidate must be:
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A female, (or identifies as female).
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A Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
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An accepted registrant in a full-time graduate studies program (Master’s or Ph.D.) or professional program at a similar level (medicine, law) in an accredited Canadian university, at the time of the application deadline (Jan 31), and that will continue their program into the following academic (May-Apr) year.
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In need of financial assistance
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Pursuing a course of studies leading to a career which will positively impact the quality of women’s lives.
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Intending to use the award for academic studies in the academic year (May-Apr) following receipt of award.
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Contributing to their community through volunteer service.
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Committed to working in Canada for at least two years after graduation.
A candidate must meet all EIGHT requirements to qualify for a Soroptimist grant.
Note: Your university must belong to Universities Canada. A list of these universities can be found on their website.
Ineligible conditions:
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Bachelors/undergraduate level studies,
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a medical residency program
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attending a college that is not affiliated with a Canadian university
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member of Soroptimist International
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previous SFC Grant for Women recipients
Applications will be assessed by independent judges based on the following six criteria:
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Work history and personal statement which should address and demonstrate the applicant’s meeting both the aim of the grant and eligibility criteria, would there be concern. (30 pts)
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Work, study and a career leading to a positive impact on women and girls (20 points)
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Demonstration of financial need (may be verified for finalists). (20 points)
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Demonstration of community involvement while in pursuit of education at post-secondary level. (15 points)
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Strength of reference letters that demonstrate why this applicant would deserve and benefit from this award (10 points)
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Scholarly ability (5 points)
An applicant may apply in either English or French. Applications open 1 Nov 2026
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions:
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An unsuccessful applicant may re-apply in subsequent application cycles, should they continue to meet eligibility criteria.
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Relatives of Soroptimist members may apply.
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Applications may be in either English or French.
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Submit completed applications and ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS TOGETHER IN ONE .pdf FILE, with supporting documents included at the end of the application.
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Submission Period: No earlier than November 1 ANNUALLY, and no later than Jan 31 THE FOLLOWING YEAR.
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It is in your best interest to submit sufficiently ahead of the deadline, in case there are questions from the Grant Manager.
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The Soroptimist Foundation of Canada does not grant extensions.
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The Soroptimist Foundation of Canada decision on completeness and eligibility, including time of receipt, is final.
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We will not accept multiple applications in the same year.
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Please note that we do not reply to correspondence, email or otherwise, to check on your application, or to check to see if you are a winner.·
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ONLY STUDENTS WHO ARE SELECTED AS AWARD WINNERS are required to provide OFFICIAL transcripts, in a sealed envelope, with the signature of the university official or the official university seal on the sealed flap of the envelope.
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You will be notified when/if official transcripts are required.
Send Questions To:
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Grants Manager Western Canada if you are attending Yukon, Nunavut, BC, AB, SK, MB
universitiesgrantsforwomen@soroptimistfoundation.ca
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Grants Manager Eastern Canada if you are attending ON, QC, NB, NS, PEI, NL
universitiesgrantsforwomeneast@soroptimistfoundation.ca
2026 Award Winners
GFW Testimonials
This section highlights testimonials from women who have received our Grants for Women, sharing how the funding has helped them pursue their education, career goals, and personal growth.