2026 3MT - Three Minute Thesis

The Three Minute Thesis (3MT) is a university-wide competition for graduate students with an exciting challenge: to explain your thesis in a clear and engaging way, using only one slide, and in only three minutes!

Both the winner and runner up of the CBS heat will receive prizes ($250 and $150 gift cards, respectively) and move on to the University of Guelph final on April 30, 2026. The winner of the university-wide competition will receive a $1,000 prize towards their tuition and will go on to the provincial final held May 6 .

Check your eligibility:

• To participate in 3MT, students must currently be registered in a master's (thesis) or PhD program at the University of Guelph and have made substantial progress on their research and analysis.
• PhD and master's students who have defended but have not yet graduated are eligible to participate.
• Presentations must be based on research that is directly related to the student’s graduate program thesis.
• Presenters must agree to be recorded. 
• More information and official rules here

Registration is open till March 18th! Send your completed registration form to asrithar@uoguelph.ca. 

Want to get a head start on 3MT preparation?

To support your success in the competition, a series of workshops and resources have been developed. All workshop details, resources, and sign-up options are available on the 3MT Workshops website: 3MT Workshops

Workshop Part 1 – Asynchronous Preparation
Please review the three videos available on the workshop website that focus on how to successfully:

• Create a compelling research pitch
• Design an effective single slide
• Deliver your presentation confidently

These asynchronous materials replace the fully in-person preparation sessions that were offered in previous years, allowing you to engage with the content at your own pace while still preparing effectively for 3MT.

 Workshop Part 2 – Trial Pitch and Feedback Sessions
Students are invited to participate in an in-person trial pitch session where you will have the opportunity to present your 3MT and receive feedback to help refine your presentation. The available sessions are:

• March 23, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
• March 24, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Students can sign up for available time slots through the workshop website.