The University of Guelph’s Arrell Food Institute is now accepting applications for the prestigious Arrell Scholarships 2026. This fully funded award valued at CAD 50,000 per year supports outstanding graduate students pursuing master’s or PhD research in sustainable agri-food systems. If you’re passionate about food security, nutrition, and environmental resilience, this is your opportunity to drive real-world change.
Overview
The Arrell Scholarships empower emerging leaders to tackle global food challenges through multidisciplinary collaboration. Scholars benefit from:
• Financial support of CAD 50,000 per year for up to two years (master’s) or four years (PhD)
• Access to world-class facilities and networks at the University of Guelph, a global leader in agriculture
• Experiential learning via specialized courses (e.g., UNIV*6050), workshops, and collaborative projects with industry and community partners
• Leadership development programs and networking events hosted by the Arrell Food Institute
• Integration into Canada’s vibrant agri-food innovation ecosystem
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Enroll full-time in a master’s or PhD program at the University of Guelph in Fall 2026
• Maintain a first-class (A–) admissions average or equivalent
• Propose research aligned with the Arrell Food Institute’s mission: sustainable production, agri-food economics, environmental impacts, or social sciences related to nutrition and consumer behavior
• Demonstrate leadership potential, community engagement, and a collaborative spirit
• Not hold concurrent major awards; deferrals considered only for exceptional circumstances
Note: You must secure admission to an eligible graduate program before or concurrently with your scholarship application.
Scholarship Benefits
• CAD 50,000 per year, paid in three installments each academic year
• Eligibility for a one-semester extension in exceptional cases
• Professional development through leadership workshops, seminars, and expert networks
• Hands-on research collaborations with faculty, industry, and community stakeholders
• Visibility in global food security and sustainable development circles
How to Apply
1. Apply to Graduate Program
– Submit your Fall 2026 admission application to an eligible University of Guelph master’s or PhD program.
– Include a research plan that aligns with the Arrell Food Institute’s themes.
2. Submit Arrell Scholarship Application
– Prepare and submit your scholarship materials by April 15, 2026. Confirm completeness with the institute.
3. Await Notification
– Successful candidates will receive a conditional offer, pending program admission and registration.
Required Documents (due by April 15, 2026)
• Statement of Research Interests and Personal Motivations (max. 2 pages plus 1 citation page)
• Current Curriculum Vitae
• Unofficial post-secondary transcripts (demonstrating A– average or higher)
• Reference Letter from your proposed supervisor, sent directly to grschol@uoguelph.ca
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed on:
• Academic excellence and research potential
• Relevance and innovation of proposed work in sustainable food systems
• Leadership experience and community involvement
• Potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world impact
Application Deadline
All materials for both the graduate program and the scholarship must be submitted by April 15, 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Apply Today
Join a dynamic community of Arrell Scholars driving sustainable food innovation at the University of Guelph. Visit the official website to learn more and submit your application:
https://graduatestudies.uoguelph.ca/current/funding/scholarships/internal/arrell-scholarships
Secure your place at the forefront of agri-food research and lead systemic change in global food systems. Apply now!