Your Guide to Applying for CFUW Graduate Awards

So you’ve decided to go for it—you want to apply for a CFUW Graduate Award. First off, good call. These fellowships and awards, offered by the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW), have helped thousands of women across Canada pursue graduate and doctoral studies in fields ranging from engineering to the arts. But the application process can feel daunting if you don’t know where to start. This guide breaks it down so you can put your best foot forward.

Step 1: Know the Awards Available

CFUW offers a variety of awards and fellowships, each with its own eligibility criteria. Some focus on STEM, others on the humanities, Indigenous women’s education, or professional studies. A few well-known examples include:

• CFUW Memorial Fellowship – for doctoral students in STEM fields.
• Dr. Alice E. Wilson Awards – for women whose studies were interrupted.
• Aboriginal Women’s Award (AWA) – open to Indigenous women at any level of study.
• École Polytechnique Commemorative Awards – for women in engineering.

Before you dive in, explore the full list on the CFUW Fellowships and Awards page.

Step 2: Check Eligibility Carefully

Each award has its own requirements, and missing a detail could mean disqualification. Ask yourself:

• Am I a Canadian citizen or permanent resident?
• Am I enrolled (or planning to enroll) in a recognized graduate program?
• Do my field of study and goals align with the award’s focus?

Reading the fine print upfront saves wasted time later.

Step 3: Gather Strong References

References aren’t just formalities—they’re key. Choose professors, supervisors, or mentors who know you well and can speak to your academic ability, leadership potential, and character. Give them enough time to write thoughtful letters, and share details about the award and your goals so they can tailor their support.

Step 4: Craft a Compelling Statement of Intent

This is where you stand out. Don’t just list your accomplishments—connect the dots. How has your journey led you here? Why does this specific award matter to your goals? What impact will your research or education have on your community, Canada, or even globally? A clear, authentic narrative resonates more than a laundry list of achievements.

Step 5: Highlight Leadership and Community Engagement

CFUW values more than academics. They’re committed to supporting women who will give back, whether through mentoring, advocacy, or professional leadership. Be sure your application reflects how you’ve made a difference and how you plan to continue doing so.

Step 6: Polish and Proofread

A small typo won’t sink you, but sloppy writing might. Ask a friend, professor, or writing centre to review your application. Fresh eyes catch things you might miss.

Step 7: Submit on Time

CFUW deadlines are strict, and late applications aren’t considered. Mark it on your calendar, set reminders, and aim to submit a few days early to avoid last-minute stress.

Quick Checklist: Applying for CFUW Graduate Awards

Step	Key Tip
Explore awards	Match your field and goals
Confirm eligibility	Check details carefully
Secure references	Give referees time and context
Write statement of intent	Be authentic and specific
Show leadership/impact	Highlight contributions beyond academics
Proofread carefully	Ask someone else to review
Submit on time	Don’t risk missing the deadline

Applying for a CFUW Graduate Award takes effort, but the process itself can be empowering. It’s a chance to reflect on your journey, clarify your goals, and make a case for why your education matters. And if you win? You’re not just receiving funding—you’re joining a community of women leaders and changemakers across Canada.

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