The Youth of Canada Scholarship
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The 2026 Youth of Canada Student Scholarship is NOW OPEN!​
Criteria and Application Details
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The Youth of Canada Student Scholarship is a $1500 CAD scholarship awarded to Canadian youth (citizen or permanent resident) aged 14-18 years old.
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There will be 3 recipients.
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Candidates are required to submit three short essays demonstrating community service, impactful experiences, and critical thinking.
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Questions
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Question 1 - What is something you are passionate about, and how have you translated that passion into actions to strengthen your community? (200 words max)
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Question 2 - What experience or challenge has played an important role in shaping who you are today? (100 words max)
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Question 3 - What kind of future do you hope to build for yourself and others? (150 words max)
Reference Letter
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One written reference letter (PDF) is required per student, references may not include family or friends.
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Please have an academic reference email theyouthofcanada@gmail.com with an attached letter (PDF) explaining your academic performance, work ethic, character, and any achievements or qualities that make you a strong candidate for this merit-based scholarship. The letter should be signed and include the referee’s name, title, institution, and contact information (email and phone number).
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Academic references must be individuals who are able to write about the applicant’s academic ability, work ethic, or character. Acceptable references can include teachers, school counsellors, academic advisors, or school administrators who have taught or supervised the applicant. References should not be family members, friends, or peers.
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The reference (teachers, school counsellors, academic advisors, or school administrators) should email the letter. Candidates are not to email the letter.
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This letter must be submitted before the scholarship's deadline, so we highly encourage reaching out to your references ahead of the deadline. Letters shared after the deadline will NOT be accepted. ​
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Confirmation of Integrity​
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By submitting this application, you confirm that all answers are written by you, truthful, and accurately represent your experiences. No part of your submission has been generated by AI or written by another person. Misrepresentation may result in disqualification or revocation of any awarded scholarship.
Please note the deadline to submit applications is June 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
Community Service
We believe in the power of giving back. We value community service as a vital attribute and actively seek applicants who have demonstrated a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. We aim to recognize and support those who show a genuine dedication to serving and enriching the lives of others in the communities they play and learn in.
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Impactful Experiences
What makes you unique? What have you experience that gave you a different look on life? We place great importance on impactful experiences and actively seek applicants whose journeys are marked by transformative moments. We are excited to reward students who have shown a remarkable capacity to turn challenges into opportunities, all while impacting others.
Critical Thinking
As a youth empowering organization, we believe in the high potential minds and imaginations of Canadian youth. We aim to celebrate youth that challenge horizons and status quo, while supporting individuals who have demonstrated the ability to approach complex issues with thoughtful reasoning and a unique perspective.
Thank you to our sponsor!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application timeline?
The scholarship application period opens on March 6, 2026 and will close on June 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST! We encourage applicants to submit before the deadline. Late admissions will not be accepted.
Will the judges care about spelling and grammar in my essay?
Spelling and grammar errors can impact your application. Please ensure proper grammar, spelling, sentence, structure, etc. We recommend double-checking your work before submitting it.​​
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When will I find out if I am successful?
There is no specific date in which the successful applicant will discover their selection. Expect to receive an email between summer and fall of 2026.
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Are homeschooled students eligible to apply?
Of course! We encourage all students aged 14-18 residing in Canada to apply.
Can my application be in a language other than English?
No, at this time we are only accepting applications written/spoken in English.
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Can I make changes to my application after submitting it?
Applicants will not be able to make any updates to an application after submitting it. We encourage you to edit your application prior to submission. Late applications will not be accepted.