Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) 2026/2027 Scholarship Requirements & Benefits

Spread the love

If you are considering studying or conducting research in Canada, the Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP) 2026–2027 is now open. This initiative, funded by the Government of Canada, provides financial support for students from Latin America and the Caribbean to gain academic experience at Canadian post-secondary institutions without tuition fees.

Learn how to apply here.

Check out these opportunities:

When is the Application Deadline:

31 March 2026, 11:59 p.m. EDT

Tell Me About The Scholarship:

The Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program (ELAP), established by the Government of Canada in 2009 and funded by Global Affairs Canada, provides short-term study or research opportunities in Canada for students from Latin America and the Caribbean.

Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.

Got Admission to Study in US or Canada? See if you are eligible for international student loan

For the 2026–2027 cycle, ELAP is administered under a new delivery model where Canadian institutions are responsible for student selection. Institutions must submit a Management and Accountability Framework (MAF) and a Privacy Notice Statement (PNS) through the My EduCanada Portal.

The program aims to foster the development of human capital, nurture future leaders, and strengthen Canada’s institutional partnerships and people-to-people ties across the Americas.

Which Fields are Eligible?

  • Short-term study or research placements at Canadian post-secondary institutions.
  • All disciplines are eligible, provided the student is enrolled full-time at a recognized institution in their home country.

Type:

Short-term Mobility Scholarship (Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD).

Who can Apply?

Applicants must:

  • Be citizens of eligible countries/territories in the Caribbean, Central America, South America, or Mexico.
  • Be enrolled full-time at a recognized post-secondary institution in their home country.
  • Be paying tuition fees at their home institution during the mobility period.
  • Be able to complete all project activities no later than 30 September 2027.

Not eligible if:

  • Holding or applying for Canadian permanent residency/citizenship.
  • Already enrolled in a Canadian degree/diploma program.
  • Receiving other funding from Global Affairs Canada or Canadian federal granting agencies.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

Caribbean: Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, BVI, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos.
Central America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama.
North America: Mexico.
South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Venezuela.

Where will the Scholarship be Taken?

Canadian post-secondary institutions (Designated Learning Institutions – DLIs).

How Many Scholarships?

Not specified — multiple awards available annually across institutions.

What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?

  • CAD $8,600 for 4 months (one academic term) for undergraduate or graduate study/research.
  • CAD $12,400 for 5–6 months for extended graduate-level study/research.
  • Coverage includes living expenses, accommodation, books, local transport, and day-to-day costs.
  • Tuition fees waived by Canadian institutions.

How Long Will the Scholarship Last?

  • 4–6 months, depending on study/research placement.

How to Apply:

  1. Canadian institutions nominate students through the My EduCanada Portal.
  2. Institutions must submit:
  3. Students must first secure nomination from their home institution and meet eligibility criteria.
  4. Deadline: 31 March 2026, 11:59 p.m. EDT.

👉 Visit the Award Webpage for Details

Author

  • Okechukwu Liberty is a Mass Communication graduate and a dedicated content writer for AfterSchoolAfrica. He holds certifications in UK Agent and Counselling, and Ethical Business Practices in International Student Recruitment, equipping him with the expertise to guide students in their academic pursuits abroad.

    He specializes in researching and curating scholarship and empowerment opportunities for students aspiring to study abroad.

    Content Research Writer