Fully Funded Canadian Opportunity in 2026: How to Secure the Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) for a Master’s in Computer Science

📌 Introduction

Are you dreaming of studying in Canada for free in 2026? The Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) is one of Canada’s most prestigious provincial government-funded graduate awards. Tailored for high-achieving students in science and technology fields, this scholarship offers generous financial support—making it ideal for those pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science or related tech fields.

This post will guide you step-by-step on how to secure admission and win the QEII-GSST scholarship in 2026, with a full example based on a Computer Science applicant. Get ready to unlock one of Canada’s best graduate-level funding opportunities!

🏆 About the QEII-GSST Scholarship

The Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) is a provincially administered scholarship available at several top universities in Ontario, including:

• University of Toronto
• University of Waterloo
• University of Ottawa
• Western University
• York University

Key Features:

• Value: $15,000 per year (can be renewed for up to 2 years for Master’s and 3 for PhD)
• Eligibility: Domestic and international students admitted to eligible programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM)
• Application Deadline: Typically January–March 2026 (varies by university)
• Funded by: Ontario Government + Participating Institutions

🎯 Who Should Apply?

This scholarship is best for students:

• With excellent academic records (minimum A- or equivalent)
• Applying to research-based graduate programs
• Interested in STEM fields like Computer Science, Data Science, AI, Engineering, Mathematics

📝 Step-by-Step Guide to Securing the QEII-GSST (with Computer Science as Case Study)

Step 1: Choose the Right University (July–September 2025)

Since the QEII-GSST is offered through specific Ontario universities, begin by shortlisting institutions that offer thesis-based Master’s in Computer Science. Top options include:

• University of Waterloo – MMath in Computer Science
• University of Toronto – MSc in Computer Science
• Western University – MSc in Computer Science (Thesis)

✅ Tip: Prioritize research-based programs. The QEII-GSST is only for research-stream students.

Step 2: Secure a Research Supervisor (August–November 2025)

QEII-GSST applicants must be enrolled in a thesis-based program, so finding a faculty advisor early is crucial.

How to Find a Supervisor:

1. Visit the department faculty page.
2. Read through professors’ research interests.
3. Send a personalized email including:
   • Your CV
   • Academic transcripts
   • A 1-page Statement of Interest (related to their work)

📩 Example Email Subject: “Prospective MSc Student Interested in AI Security – 2026 Intake”

Step 3: Apply for Admission (October 2025–January 2026)

Once you have a potential supervisor’s support, submit your formal application.

Admission Requirements for MSc in Computer Science (Example: University of Waterloo):

• Honours Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field (minimum 78% average)
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 90+)
• GRE (optional but recommended for international applicants)
• Statement of Intent (1–2 pages)
• Resume/CV
• 2–3 Academic References

Application Fee: CAD $125–150 depending on university

Step 4: Apply for QEII-GSST Scholarship (January–March 2026)

After applying for admission, eligible applicants are invited to apply for QEII-GSST.

QEII-GSST Application Includes:

• Academic transcripts
• CV (highlight research and academic achievements)
• Research proposal (1–2 pages)
• Statement of interest in STEM and career goals
• Letters of reference
• Proof of supervisor support (optional but strengthens your application)

📍 Important: Each university has its own QEII-GSST portal and deadline.

Step 5: Boost Your Competitiveness

To stand out:

• Maintain a GPA of 3.7/4.0 or above
• Publish or present a research project (undergrad thesis, papers, etc.)
• Get strong reference letters from professors who know your academic work
• Tailor your research proposal to your supervisor’s current work

🛂 Admission and Scholarship Timeline (Illustrative)

📚 Why Computer Science? (Course Spotlight)

Choosing Computer Science as your focus area is smart because:

• It’s a high-demand field in Canada
• It aligns with funding priorities in AI, cybersecurity, data analytics
• Canadian CS grads have high post-graduation employability
• It boosts your chances in scholarship evaluations for “research impact”

✅ Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, make sure:

✔ You’re applying to an eligible Ontario university
✔ You have a supervisor (or strong research plan)
✔ You’re entering a thesis-based STEM program
✔ Your GPA meets or exceeds the minimum
✔ You’re submitting all documents before the deadline

✈️ Bonus: How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit

Once you get admission + QEII-GSST:

1. Receive Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
2. Pay tuition deposit (if required)
3. Apply online via IRCC portal
4. Submit:
   • LOA
   • Proof of funds (QEII-GSST letter)
   • Statement of purpose
   • Passport
   • Biometrics (as requested)
5. Wait 4–10 weeks for a decision

💡 Final Tips for Success

• Apply early – supervisor slots and funding are competitive
• Network with current students – insights help you tailor your approach
• Use LinkedIn and ResearchGate to engage with professors
• Prepare a portfolio of your past research/code
• Practice writing a compelling research proposal

🔚 Conclusion

The QEII-GSST Scholarship is a golden ticket for high-achieving students planning to pursue graduate studies in Canada in 2026. With up to $15,000 in annual funding, this scholarship can cover your tuition, living expenses, and research costs—especially when paired with university assistantships or other awards.

Whether you’re in Nigeria, India, Pakistan, Ghana, or anywhere else, if you have a strong academic background and a passion for Computer Science or any STEM field, this is your chance to make Canada your academic destination in 2026.

📌 Start now—2026 is around the corner!