Recognition Awards

Graduate students at Western may be recognized for exceptional academic achievement, research excellence, and contributions to their field through a variety of recognition awards. These awards celebrate outstanding accomplishments during a student's graduate studies and highlight the impact of their scholarly work within the University and beyond. Recognition awards can enhance a student's academic profile and serve as a distinction that supports future educational and career opportunities.

Each recognition award maintains its own eligibility requirements, nomination process, and selection criteria. Students are encouraged to review the following summaries of the recognition awards available through Western and to consult the corresponding award information for details regarding eligibility, timelines, and application or nomination procedures.

NATIONAL Recognition

Governor General's Gold Medals

Recognizing outstanding scholastic achievement, these medals are awarded annually to the master's or doctoral students who achieve the highest academic standing across the university.

Doctoral THESIS Award

CAGS/ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Awards

Honouring Canadian doctoral dissertations that make unusually significant and original contributions to their academic fields across national disciplines.

International THESIS Award

CGS/ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Awards

Recognizing doctoral dissertations that represent original work and make an unusually significant contribution to disciplines spanning the sciences, social sciences, and humanities.