If you are exploring international research internships through Mitacs, it is easy to confuse Globalink and RISE‑Globalink. Both support global research collaboration, but they serve different student groups and research pathways. Understanding how Mitacs Globalink and RISE‑Globalink programs compare can help you decide which one fits your academic goals or the talent needs of your organization.
Mitacs is a national, not‑for‑profit organization funded by the Government of Canada that supports research and innovation partnerships. Its Globalink programs are among the most recognized international research initiatives in Canada.
While both programs fall under the Mitacs Globalink umbrella, they are not interchangeable. The biggest differences are who applies, where the research takes place, and how funding is structured.
The Mitacs Globalink Research Internship is best known for bringing international undergraduate students to Canada for short‑term research projects.
Key features include:
This program helps Canadian researchers and, in some cases, Canadian businesses connected to universities access global talent early in the research pipeline.
The RISE‑Globalink Research Internship works in the opposite direction. It supports Canadian undergraduate students who want to conduct research in Germany.
According to program details from Mitacs, RISE‑Globalink:
Unlike some Mitacs internships that involve companies directly, RISE‑Globalink is strictly research‑based and academically focused.
Here is a simplified way to see how Mitacs Globalink and RISE‑Globalink programs compare:
Student direction
Host institutions
Partner organization
Business involvement
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter Mitacs programs by location, applicant type, and research focus in seconds.
Mitacs does not treat these internships as salaried jobs.
For RISE‑Globalink, Mitacs confirms that:
Because funding details vary annually, applicants should always review the official Mitacs posting before applying.
Assuming RISE‑Globalink is open to graduate students
RISE‑Globalink is designed for undergraduate students only. Graduate‑level applicants should look at other Mitacs programs.
Thinking German language skills are mandatory
Many RISE‑Globalink research projects are conducted in English, depending on the host institution.
Missing deadlines due to annual changes
Application deadlines for RISE‑Globalink vary each year. Relying on last year’s dates is a common reason applications fail.
Treating these as business internships
Neither Globalink nor RISE‑Globalink is a commercial co‑op placement. They are academic research internships.
Q: Who is eligible for the RISE‑Globalink Research Internship?
Canadian undergraduate students enrolled at a recognized university can apply, provided their academic background aligns with the proposed research project.
Q: Is the RISE‑Globalink Research Internship paid?
Participants receive a stipend and support for travel and living expenses. It is not a traditional salary or employment income.
Q: Do I need to speak German to participate?
In most cases, no. Many research projects are conducted in English, though requirements depend on the host institution.
Q: How competitive is RISE‑Globalink?
The program is highly competitive. Selection is based on academic merit, research fit, and the limited number of available placements.
Q: Can I apply to multiple Mitacs programs at the same time?
Mitacs rules can change by program and year. Always confirm current eligibility and overlap rules directly with Mitacs before applying.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and internship programs across Canada — check which ones match your academic or research profile.
If you are comparing Mitacs Globalink and RISE‑Globalink, start by confirming where the research will take place and who the program is designed for. From there, look at timelines, competitiveness, and long‑term research goals. GrantHub can help you stay aware of Mitacs programs and related international research funding opportunities as they open.
See also:
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.