John Larson Cancer Research Trust Fund

What you will need

• ✓ One-page research proposal outlining your thesis or project topic or area of major research
• ✓ Name and email address of your supervisor to serve as a reference
• ✓ 80% GPA or above
• ✓ Current enrollment in a Master's or PhD program at the University of Saskatchewan

About this award

You can receive approximately $2,000 for your studies. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a graduate student dedicated to finding cures and treatments through cancer research, including leukemia. You must apply by November 2, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Ask University of Saskatchewan how many students usually apply, so you can judge your odds. Ask University of Saskatchewan during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with University of Saskatchewan whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be a Master's student (pursuing either a thesis or project-based degree) or a PhD student engaged in cancer research, including leukemia, at the University of Saskatchewan. You must have a GPA of 80% or above. Note that you must already be in your program; students who have not yet started their graduate program at the time of application will not be considered.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

• ✓ Open to graduate students
• ✓ Studying cancer research or leukemia

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Ask for reference letters2 weeks

   Give your referees at least two weeks' notice, and send them your résumé.

3. 3

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• Research ProposalAvoid writing a generic overview of cancer. Instead, provide a precise one-page outline of your specific thesis or project topic and the major research area you intend to pursue. Focus on the unique contribution your work makes to the field.
• RefereesAvoid providing a reference who doesn't know your daily lab work. Instead, use your direct supervisor. Ensure you have their current name and email address ready for the application portal.
• StrategyAvoid submitting your research proposal without a peer review. Instead, have your supervisor read your one-page outline to ensure it aligns with the scholarship's focus on cancer and leukemia research.
• RealismAvoid assuming a guaranteed win based on your GPA alone. Instead, remember that this is a specialized fund for a narrow research niche. Check the University of Saskatchewan portal to see how many similar awards are available each year.

Questions students ask

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