The Alberta Rutherford Scholarship is a prestigious award offered by the Government of Alberta, Canada, to recognize and support outstanding students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to their community. The scholarship is named after the first premier of Alberta, Alexander Cameron Rutherford, and is designed to encourage and reward students who embody the values of excellence, innovation, and public service that he represented.
Overview of the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship
The Alberta Rutherford Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides financial support to students who are pursuing post-secondary education in Alberta. The scholarship is open to students who are enrolled in a full-time program at an accredited Alberta post-secondary institution, including universities, colleges, and technical schools. The award is valued at $2,500 and is renewable for up to four years, provided the recipient continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be an Alberta resident
- Be enrolled in a full-time program at an accredited Alberta post-secondary institution
- Have achieved a minimum average of 80% in their high school diploma or equivalent
- Have demonstrated leadership and community involvement through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other endeavors
Students who are enrolled in a graduate program or who have already received a post-secondary degree are not eligible for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship. Additionally, students who are receiving other government-funded scholarships or awards may not be eligible for this scholarship.
| Eligibility Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Canadian citizen or permanent resident |
| Residency | Alberta resident |
| Academic Achievement | Minimum average of 80% in high school diploma or equivalent |
| Leadership and Community Involvement | Demonstrated through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other endeavors |
Application Process
The application process for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship typically opens in the spring and closes in the summer. Students who are interested in applying for the scholarship must submit their application through the online portal, which is available on the Government of Alberta’s website. The application requires students to provide personal and academic information, as well as transcripts and letters of reference.
Selection Criteria
The selection committee for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship considers a range of factors when evaluating applications, including:
- Academic achievement: Students must have achieved a minimum average of 80% in their high school diploma or equivalent
- Leadership: Students must have demonstrated leadership through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or other endeavors
- Community involvement: Students must have demonstrated a commitment to their community through volunteer work, community service, or other activities
- Personal statement: Students must submit a personal statement that outlines their academic and career goals, as well as their reasons for pursuing post-secondary education
What is the deadline for applying for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship?
+The deadline for applying for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship typically falls in the summer, but students should check the Government of Alberta's website for the exact deadline.
How much is the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship worth?
+The Alberta Rutherford Scholarship is valued at $2,500 and is renewable for up to four years, provided the recipient continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I apply for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship if I'm already receiving another government-funded scholarship?
+Students who are receiving other government-funded scholarships or awards may not be eligible for the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship. However, students should check the eligibility criteria and consult with the scholarship committee to determine their eligibility.
In conclusion, the Alberta Rutherford Scholarship is a prestigious award that recognizes and supports outstanding students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to their community. By providing financial support and encouraging students to pursue post-secondary education, the scholarship helps to foster a highly educated and skilled workforce in Alberta, which is essential for the province’s economic growth and prosperity.
