How to Secure a Funded Scholarship at Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick

1. Understand the Types of Scholarships Available

Mount Allison University proposes a range of scholarships for incoming students. These can be broadly categorized into:

Entrance Scholarships

These are automatically considered for students entering the university directly from high school. Entrance scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded based on academic performance, community involvement, and other achievements. No separate application is required, but students must apply for admission before the scholarship deadline.

• Value: Entrance scholarships range from $4,000 to $20,000, which can be spread over four years.

Application-Based Scholarships

Mount Allison also offers scholarships that require a separate application. These are often more competitive and require you to submit supporting documents such as essays, recommendation letters, and detailed records of your extracurricular activities.

• Examples: J.E.A. Crake Scholarships, Bell Scholarships
• Value: These scholarships can vary in value from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

External Scholarships

In addition to Mount Allison’s internal scholarships, students are encouraged to explore external funding opportunities through provincial, national, and international scholarship programs. Some common external scholarship options for Canadian students include:

• Loran Scholars Foundation
• TD Scholarships for Community Leadership
• Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS)

2. Eligibility Criteria

Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, so it’s important to know whether you qualify. However, most of the entrance and merit-based scholarships generally require:

• High academic performance (typically, an admission average of 85% or higher).
• Leadership and community involvement (participation in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, etc.).
• Canadian or International status (some scholarships are reserved for Canadian citizens, while others are open to international students).

Entrance Scholarships

• Eligibility: No separate application is required, but you must meet the university’s minimum admission requirements.
• Timeline: Early application is encouraged, as scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis.

Application-Based Scholarships

• Eligibility: These scholarships often have specific requirements, such as a minimum GPA or field of study. Make sure to check the guidelines carefully.

3. Key Steps to Apply for Scholarships

Step 1: Apply for Admission Early

The first step to being considered for any Mount Allison scholarship is to apply for admission. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of being automatically considered for entrance scholarships. Make sure you submit all required documents, such as your high school transcript, early in the process.

Step 2: Complete the Scholarship Application

For application-based scholarships, you’ll need to fill out a separate form that includes personal information, academic achievements, and a list of extracurricular activities. You may also be asked to submit additional documents such as essays and reference letters.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Some scholarships may require additional materials:

• Transcripts: Ensure your grades are documented and submitted on time.
• Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your academic and personal achievements, leadership roles, and career aspirations.
• Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong letters from teachers, employers, or community leaders who know you well and can speak to your abilities.

Step 4: Apply for External Scholarships

If you’re applying for external scholarships, make sure to search for them well in advance. Use platforms like Scholarships Canada and Yconic to find funding opportunities that match your profile. Keep track of deadlines to ensure you don’t miss any chances.

4. Important Deadlines

• Admission Application Deadline: Apply early, ideally by March 1st, to be considered for most scholarships.
• Scholarship Application Deadline: Application-based scholarships often have deadlines between mid-February and early March. Be sure to check Mount Allison’s scholarship page for specific dates.

5. Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Maintain High Academic Performance: Scholarships at Mount Allison are highly competitive, and having a strong academic record (at least an 85% average) can significantly boost your chances.

• Engage in Extracurriculars: Leadership roles in school clubs, sports, or community organizations will enhance your application for both automatic and application-based scholarships.

• Write a Strong Personal Statement: When applying for scholarships that require essays, make sure your writing is clear and demonstrates your commitment to your field of study, community involvement, and long-term goals.

• Apply for Multiple Scholarships: Don’t limit yourself to just one scholarship. Apply for as many as you qualify for, including external scholarships.

6. Financial Aid and Bursaries

In addition to scholarships, Mount Allison offers need-based financial aid through bursaries. These are available to both Canadian and international students who demonstrate financial need.

• How to Apply: You will need to submit a financial aid application that includes details of your financial situation.
• Timeline: Applications for bursaries are usually accepted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year.

Conclusion

Gaining a scholarship at Mount Allison University can systematically diminish your financial responsibility while allowing you to focus on your academic and personal growth. Applying on time, maintain high grades, and ensure that you are actively involved in extracurricular activities. With preparation and determination, you can successfully secure financial support to help fund your studies at this prestigious institution.