Scholarship information

There are many different categories of scholarships. This page will help you better understand the differences between scholarships, how to apply for them, and where to find them. There is millions of dollars in entrance scholarships, but most importantly, you cannot get a scholarship if you do not apply for one.

Research scholarships carefully. It is the student’s responsibility to research the scholarships carefully to ensure eligibility. Make sure you check the deadlines and apply on time. Please review the current information with the scholarship sponsor as amounts and deadlines vary each year.

Scholarship Types

There are two main types of scholarships. Those that DO NOT require the student to submit a separate application form and those that DO require the student to submit an application form to be considered for a scholarship. Scholarships may be a one time gift or may be renewable. Often renewable scholarships require the student to maintain a specific standing and may require a student to remain in a specific faculty.

Scholarships that DO NOT Require a Separate Application

Students are automatically considered for these scholarships by applying to university. Some universities will offer scholarships at the time of the admissions offer and some universities will offer scholarships after the admission offer. These offers are conditional that a student’s mark will not drop between the time of offer and June. These are referred to as Admission or Entrance Scholarships.

Scholarships that DO Require a Separate Application

Scholarships that require a separate application form have varying criteria. Each organization offering a scholarship establishes its own academic and extra-curricular criteria. There are two types of scholarships that require a separate application. Those which require a nomination by their secondary school and those which students apply to a pool of applicants directly themselves.

Nominated Scholarships

These scholarships are referred to as Prestige Scholarships and are often titled Chancellor's, President's or National Scholarships. Each school is entitled to nominate a specific number of candidates. If you would like to be nominated for one of these scholarships, please see the Guidance Technician.

Direct Application Scholarships

Students are encouraged to do their own research and find scholarships they are qualified for. Every year, thousands of scholarship dollars go unclaimed. It is important that students pay particular attention to the criteria for the scholarship and the deadlines associated with it.

Scholarship Report:

Visit Ms. Jacobsen in guidance to see the most recent scholarship report. It contains a list of scholarships, organized by deadline date.

Searchable Scholarships Links

Bursaries and Awards

Although not a scholarship, students may also receive an award or bursary. An award is given in recognition of outstanding achievement. Awards are often given in the form of books, plaques, subscriptions or money. A bursary is a non-repayable grant or money. These are usually based on financial need, but academic achievement is also considered. Applications for bursaries are available from the financial aid office at the university or college in September of each year.

How to Apply for Scholarships

In order to ensure your scholarship application is as complete as possible, the following steps are recommended:

1. Do your research early

Spend the time necessary to research the scholarships you want to apply for and record their due dates. There are many places to find scholarships and this takes time.

2. Get Organized

Do some work ahead of time. Many scholarships will require letters of reference, personal statements and cover letters. You can have this prepared ahead of time and reuse them (with minor edits) for each application. Remember, personalized communication is always more effective.

3. Follow Deadlines

Be sure to give yourself enough time to submit an exceptional application. Start working on your application well ahead of time. Many applications require the submission of essays and answers to thought-provoking questions which require time to prepare effectively. Applications for scholarships must be either received or post dated by a certain date. Late applications will not be considered.

4. Letters of Reference

Most scholarship applications require additional submissions from references within the school or from outside in the community. Allow at least two weeks for the drafting of letters of reference and other recommendations. It is important to provide your reference with a copy of the scholarship you are applying for, your personal resume and a list of involvements. You may be asked to ghost write the letter for your reference as part of this process.

5. Transcripts

Most scholarships require an official school transcript. These can be requested in Guidance and often picked up the next day.


U.S. / International Universities

Here are some resources to help you on your research of US/ International University destinations:

  • College Board – Info on SAT and PSAT testing, etc.
  • Schoolfinder – Use the search engine to find post-secondary institutions in the U.S.
  • US Universities – An excellent research tool if you are interested in studying in the U.S.
  • Go Abroad – Continue your education anywhere in the world! In the Study Abroad section, you will find a search tool that allows you to narrow your preferences by country, school, and program.

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