For Post-Secondary Studies
Estimated living expenses can be $5000-$10,000/year. Estimated tuition, books, academic supplies, etc. to be $5000 – $10,000/year.
A scholarship is a monetary award which is often based on a variety of criteria: ◦ Academics ◦ Volunteer work ◦ Extracurricular activities ◦ Sports Financial need may or may not be a factor.
A bursary is a monetary grant that is usually based on financial need rather than merit. The student is in need of financial assistance in order to continue their education.
A prize is a small award given in recognition of some specific superior accomplishment. It may be in the form of books, plaques, medals, subscriptions, or cash.
Loans are advanced on the understanding that the money will be repaid upon the completion of one’s studies. Federal (www.canlearn.ca) and Provincial governments (www.alis.gov.ab.ca)both provide student loan plans. Some financial institutions also have student loan plans; however, these usually have an immediate interest charge.
Money – specifically, money that you don’t have to pay back. Resume Builder – what better way is there to impress your future employer? Awards look great on medical/law school applications as well. Compound Interest – once you win one award, it acts as a stepping stone for winning others.
Other than academic success and financial need, scholarship providers look for applicants who can demonstrate: Originality & Passion – what makes you stand out from all the other applicants? Volunteering & Community Service – do you give back to the community? Have you volunteered? Leadership and Initiative – are you a founding member or have you taken an active role in a club or organization?
Talent – Are you a Van Gogh? A future Spielberg? Do you have a vision? Scholarships reward fresh thinking and new ideas. Special Targeted Areas – specific heritage or cultural background, gender, special needs, geography and more.
1. Institution Based Scholarships Every post-secondary institution will offer first year scholarships for first year students. Check the institution’s web page and/or calendar for a list of these scholarships.
Open to students admitted to the postsecondary institute directly from high school. Students MUST apply in order to be considered. Students are considered based on their grade point average from high school.
2. Membership Scholarships ◦ Many organizations have scholarships available to members and their families. eg. A.T.A. (AB Teachers Association.) ◦ Could include employers, clubs, cultural organizations, religious affiliations, or teams.
3. C.B.E./School Based Scholarships ◦ Managed by the C.B.E. ◦ Selected at school or city level The typical application time for these is in the spring of your Grade 12 year. Go to: www.educationmatters.ca www.thecalgaryfoundation.org
4. Corporate Scholarships ◦ Nationally or provincially selected ◦ e.g. Toyota, T.D. Bank, Burger King
5. Government Scholarships ◦ Alberta – The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship. ◦ 75% - 79.9% OR 80% and higher average in 5 subjects in grade 10, 11, and 12. ◦ Different monetary amounts awarded depending on average. ◦ Value varies from $300 to $2500. Apply in the spring of your Grade 12 year. Go to: www.alis.gov.ab.ca for more information.
Scholarship Binder ~ Student Services (T & P Wings) S-Drive>Departments> Scholarships Emailed to Grade 12 YOTES teachers ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦ ◦
www.studentawards.com www.scholarshipscanada.com www.scholarshipsandawards.com www.alis.gov.ab.ca www.educationmatters.ca www.schoolfinder.com
1. Passion for the Subject Prioritize the scholarships/awards you find in order of personal interest. Your passion for the subject will be reflected in your application.
2. Research
Read the rules, criteria, and eligibility details! Do the appropriate background work and find out exactly what the specific scholarship is looking for.
3. Clarity of Thought Be clear and concise. “How” you communicate is just as important as “what” you’re trying to communicate. Have your application proofed before you submit it.
4. It’s Not a Resume
Your scholarship application essay is not a substitute for your resume, so don’t simply rewrite your resume in essay form. Expand on your personal experiences by discussing the broader implications of your work or volunteering. Communicate your longer term goals. Scholarship providers want to know they are enhancing the life of a goal-orientated person and that their support will help that person achieve their objectives.
5. Structure, Spelling & Grammar
Be aware of proper essay structure. Use Canadian spelling. Always double-check your spelling and grammar and have someone proofread your work. If you are not completing it on-line, remember that neatness counts!!
6. References
References should be professionals at your school or an organization that can vouch for your participation. Friends and family should only be used for character references. Keep your references informed about potential calls and make sure their contact information is up to date. Provide at least two weeks notice if you are requesting a reference letter.
7. Follow the Instructions
Complete every requirement of the application and make sure that you have collected and provided all the requested materials or documents.
8. Don’t Miss the Deadline
Don’t procrastinate! Give yourself plenty of time to fill out the application and to gather required documents. Time management – you have to pay a fee to obtain official transcripts so keep in mind that it takes time to process them. No Exceptions! No Extensions! SUBMIT APPLICATION ON TIME!!
Mrs. Mitchell ~ A-G ~ T Wing Mrs. Floyd ~ H-N ~ P Wing Ms. Hunter ~ O-Z ~ T Wing
Centennial High School
