How to Contact a Canadian Professor for a Scholarship (PhD, MS)

Tips on How to Contact a Canadian Professor for a Scholarship

Canada March 23, 2023

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5 Tips on How to Contact a Canadian Professor for a Scholarship

If you are seeking a scholarship in Canada, it can be challenging to know how to contact a Canadian professor to inquire about potential opportunities.

However, it is essential to note that professors are often the gatekeepers to valuable scholarship information. Here are some ways you can contact a Canadian professor for a scholarship:

1. Research:

First, research the professor’s area of expertise and interest. This is important because you want to find a professor who is interested in your field of study and has a scholarship available.

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2. Email:

Once you have identified a professor, send them an email introducing yourself and expressing your interest in their research. Be sure to attach your resume, transcripts, and any other relevant documents that may support your application.

3. Follow-up:

After sending your initial email, give the professor a few days to respond. If you don’t hear back, follow up with a polite email or phone call.

4. Attend Conferences:

Attend conferences where your potential professors will be presenting or attending. This is an excellent opportunity to network and establish a relationship with them.

5. Social Media:

Some professors may have social media accounts where you can connect with them. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for this kind of communication.

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Some Examples

Here are some examples of successful scholarship applications through contacting Canadian professors:

Dr. John Smith, a professor at the University of Toronto, received an email from a student expressing their interest in his research. After reviewing the student’s qualifications, Dr. Smith offered them a scholarship to work on a research project with him.

Maria Garcia, a student from Mexico, attended a conference where Dr. Jane Doe, a professor at the University of British Columbia, was presenting. After introducing herself and expressing her interest in Dr. Doe’s research, they exchanged contact information, and Dr. Doe later offered Maria a scholarship to study at UBC.

Do’s and Dont’s When Contacting a Canadian Professor for a Scholarship

Applying for a scholarship in Canada can be a competitive process, and contacting a Canadian professor can be a crucial step in securing one.

Contacting a professor can be intimidating, therefore it is essential to approach the situation professionally. Here are some do’s and don’ts when contacting a Canadian professor for a scholarship:

Do’s When Contacting a Professor for a Scholarship

1. Research:

Before contacting a professor, research their area of expertise and the scholarship opportunities they offer. This will help you tailor your message and show your interest in their research.

2. Be Professional:

When drafting your email or message, ensure that it is professional and well-written. This means checking for spelling and grammar errors and avoiding slang or informal language.

3. Introduce Yourself:

In your initial message, introduce yourself and express your interest in the professor’s research. This will help establish a connection and show that you have done your research.

4. Attach Relevant Documents:

When contacting a professor, it is essential to attach your resume, transcripts, and any other relevant documents that may support your application.

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5. Follow-up:

If you do not receive a response, follow-up with a polite email or phone call after a few days.

Don’ts When Contacting a Professor for a Scholarship

1. Do Not Be Pushy:

While it is essential to follow-up, do not be pushy or aggressive in your communication. Professors receive many emails and messages, and it is essential to respect their time and boundaries.

2. Do Not Copy and Paste:

Avoid sending the same message to multiple professors. Take the time to personalize each message to show your interest in their research.

3. Do Not Lie:

Be honest and transparent about your qualifications and experience. Do not exaggerate or pretend to have qualifications that you do not possess.

4. Do Not Ignore Instructions:

If a professor has specific instructions for applying for a scholarship, be sure to follow them. This may include submitting your application through a specific portal or including specific information in your message.

5. Do Not Expect an Immediate Response:

Professors are busy and may not respond immediately. Be patient and follow-up after a reasonable amount of time.

Conclusion

In summary, contacting a Canadian professor for a scholarship requires research, professionalism, and persistence. By following these steps and utilizing various communication channels, you can increase your chances of securing a scholarship in Canada.