The UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF) is one of Canada’s most prestigious funding programs for doctoral students. Offered by the University of British Columbia (UBC), this fully funded fellowship supports outstanding domestic and international PhD, DMA, and MDPhD students for up to four years.
The 4YF program provides a minimum annual stipend of $18,200 CAD, in addition to full tuition coverage. More than just a scholarship, it gives doctoral students long-term financial stability, empowering them to focus on high-impact research and academic excellence in one of the world’s top-ranked universities.
- Host Country: Canada
- Host Institution: University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada
This fellowship is automatic consideration-based, meaning if you’re admitted into a UBC doctoral program, you may be selected by the department for 4YF funding — no separate application needed. It’s designed to retain and attract the brightest research minds globally.
Benefits of the UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
Students selected for 4YF funding receive:
- Annual stipend of at least $18,200 CAD
- Full tuition coverage for up to four years
- Stable, long-term financial support
- Research mentorship and academic resources from UBC
- Priority access to conferences, publishing, and university-wide research initiatives
UBC 4YF recipients are often among the most academically driven students who go on to make major contributions in their disciplines.
Eligibility Criteria for UBC 4YF Fellowship 2026
To be considered for the UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship, you must:
- Be applying to, or currently enrolled in, a full-time PhD, DMA, or MDPhD program at UBC
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or international student
- Meet the admission requirements of your graduate program
- Have a track record of academic excellence and research potential
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout the four-year period to retain the award
Note: While the majority of awards go to incoming students, continuing students may also be nominated by their departments.
Required Documents for UBC 4YF Application
There is no separate application for the 4YF. However, to be considered, ensure your graduate school application includes:
Mandatory Documents:
- Completed UBC doctoral program application
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of intent or research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two or more academic references
- English language test scores (if applicable)
These documents must be submitted via UBC’s graduate admissions portal.
Application Timeline for UBC Four Year Fellowship 2026
- Application Opens: Ongoing (subject to program-specific deadlines)
- General Deadline: Likely December 2025 (confirm with your chosen graduate program)
- Nomination and Review: Department nominates candidates to Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
This is a fixed-deadline award, and early applications are strongly encouraged.
How to Apply for the UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship (4YF)
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Choose a Doctoral Program: Explore UBC’s graduate offerings and select a PhD, DMA, or MDPhD program
- Apply for Admission: Submit a complete application via the UBC graduate admissions portal
- Automatic Consideration: If you’re admitted, your department may nominate you for 4YF funding based on merit
- Departmental Review: Departments recommend top applicants to the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
- Award Notification: Selected candidates will be notified alongside their admission offers or shortly thereafter
Pro Tip:
Strengthen your profile with published research, international academic awards, and compelling recommendations.
FAQs about the UBC 4YF Program
Is IELTS required?
Not always. If you studied in English, you may be exempt. Otherwise, IELTS or TOEFL may be required depending on your program.
Is there a separate scholarship application?
No. You’re automatically considered when you apply to your doctoral program.
Can students from Africa, Asia, or Latin America apply?
Yes, 4YF is open to students of all nationalities.
When are results announced?
Usually within a few weeks after program admission decisions.
Can continuing students apply?
Yes, but priority is given to new doctoral admits.
Final Thoughts on the UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship
If you are a doctoral candidate aiming to conduct meaningful research at one of the world’s leading universities, the UBC Four Year Doctoral Fellowship offers the financial security and academic environment to help you thrive.
It’s more than just funding — it’s a long-term partnership with a university that believes in your potential.
Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in Canada.