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Scholarships
Easter Seals Alberta is committed to empowering students with disabilities by reducing financial barriers and supporting educational success. Through a variety of scholarships and programs, we help students pursue post-secondary studies, develop workplace skills, and access adaptive technology.
Each year, Easter Seals Alberta provides thousands of dollars in scholarships and grants, ensuring that students with disabilities have opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. These awards recognize not only academic achievement but also resilience, leadership, and community involvement.
What We Offer
- Post-Secondary Scholarships: Financial awards for Alberta students with disabilities to support tuition, fees, and other education-related costs.
- Workplace Readiness Awards: Scholarships that encourage students as they transition from school to employment, helping them gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
- Technology Grants: Support for high school students to access adaptive technology and mentorship that fosters learning and independence.
Important Dates
- Applications open March 1st.
- Applications close June 30th.
Summary of Available Scholarships
| Program Name | Target Group | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Phyllis Davidson Scholarship | Alberta students with physical disabilities who are pursuing post-secondary education. | $20,000 in total Distributed as $5,000 per academic year over 4 years (multiple awards each academic year) |
| Norman Denoon Memorial Scholarship | Post-secondary students living with disabilities who have made a significant contribution through volunteerism or advocacy. | $5,000/year (two awards each academic year) |
| Maguire Family Scholarship | Students with disabilities in Alberta who face significant barriers to accessing higher education, with a focus on those in rural or underserved communities. | $2,500/year (two awards each academic year) |
| Sun Life Workplace Readiness Program Scholarship | Alberta students with disabilities as they transition into post-secondary education and prepare for the workforce. | $2,000 one-time award |
| Accessible Technology & Mentorship Program | Alberta students with a disability who are currently enrolled in or entering high school in Fall. | $1,000 one-time award (multiple awards each academic year) |
Available Scholarships
Phyllis Davidson Scholarship
Purpose:
The Phyllis Davidson Easter Seals Scholarship supports Alberta students with physical disabilities who are pursuing post-secondary education. Created in memory of Phyllis Davidson, this scholarship removes financial barriers and promotes accessible education across the province. Each year, one exceptional student is awarded funding to help achieve their academic and career goals.
Scholarship Value:
The scholarship provides $20,000 in total, distributed as $5,000 per academic year over four years. This funding covers essential educational expenses such as tuition, textbooks, and adaptive technology. As a result, students can focus more on their studies and less on financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, applicants must:
Be a resident of Alberta.
- Have a physical disability that requires a mobility aid (e.g., wheelchair, walker, or power scooter).
- Be accepted or currently enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution in Alberta.
- Pursue an academic or professional program that leads to a diploma or degree.
- Take at least two courses per semester.
By meeting these criteria, students ensure they are eligible for one of Alberta’s leading scholarships for students with disabilities.
Application Process:
Applying for the scholarship is simple. Here’s how to get started:
1. Click here to complete the Application Form.
2. Submit the following documents:
- One Character reference letter of reference describing the reasons the applicant would be a worthy recipient of the scholarship. This application should highlight the contribution to the community, academic achievements and other accomplishments;
- One Academic letter of reference from a teacher at the applicant’s school or from an individual who is familiar with the applicant.
- A one-page personal letter indicating your school experience, your career aspirations and how your disability affects your life.
- An up-to-date, certified academic transcript.
- Documentation from healthcare provider confirming diagnosis.
3. Please email all documents to Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca by June 30 at midnight.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Requirements for Successful Applicants:
Once selected, scholarship recipients must submit the following:
- A signed media release and photo;
- A letter of appreciation to the donor;
- Social Insurance Number (for CRA reporting); and
- Confirmation of enrollment from your educational institution.
Continuing Successful Applicants:
To maintain the scholarship over four years, recipients must submit the following each year:
- An updated photo;
- A new letter of appreciation describing how the scholarship has helped and how your disability impacts your experience;
- Confirmation of continued enrollment; and
- A current academic transcript.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we’re here to help.
Phone: (403) 235-5662
Email: Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca
We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the next step toward accessible education.
Norman Denoon Memorial Scholarship
Purpose:
Established in memory of Norman Denoon, the Easter Seals Alberta Norman Denoon Memorial Scholarship offers post-secondary academic scholarships to students living with disabilities who have made a significant contribution through volunteerism or advocacy.
Scholarship Value:
Two scholarships of $5,000 per school year are given to qualified students working towards a post-secondary program within Alberta.
Please note: Scholarship funds are to be used only on educational expenses (i.e. tuition, books, technology, etc.).
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, you must be a current student or candidate for admission into a post-secondary institution within Alberta, living with a disability. Students should be attending a minimum of two courses per semester, pursuing an academic or professional program leading to a degree or diploma.
Application Process:
Applying for the scholarship is simple. Here’s how to get started:
1. Click here to complete the Application Form.
2. Submit the following documents:
- One Character reference letter of reference describing the reasons the applicant would be a worthy recipient of the scholarship. This application should highlight the contribution to the community, academic achievements and other accomplishments;
- One Academic letter of reference from a teacher at the applicant’s school or from an individual who is familiar with the applicant.
- A one-page personal letter indicating your school experience, your career aspirations and how your disability affects your life.
- An up-to-date, certified academic transcript.
- Documentation from healthcare provider confirming diagnosis.
3. Please email all documents to Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca by June 30 at midnight.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Requirements for Successful Applicants:
Once selected, scholarship recipients must submit the following:
- A signed media release and photo;
- A letter of appreciation to the donor;
- Social Insurance Number (for CRA reporting); and
- Confirmation of enrollment from your educational institution.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we’re here to help.
Phone: (403) 235-5662
Email: Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca
We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the next step toward accessible education.
Maguire Family Scholarship
Purpose:
To provide financial support to students with disabilities in Alberta who face significant barriers to accessing higher education, with a focus on those in rural or underserved communities. The scholarship aims to support students in overcoming these barriers and achieving their academic and professional goals.
Scholarship Value:
Total Annual Fund: $5,000
Number of Awards: 2 scholarships of $2,500 each or 1 scholarship of $5,000 depending on the applicant pool and demonstrated need.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, applicants must:
- Open to students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree at an accredited post-secondary institution.
- Priority will be given to students from rural or underserved communities in Alberta, where access to resources and support may be limited.
- Be a resident of Alberta.
- Proof of disability (e.g., a letter from a healthcare provider or documentation from a relevant authority).
- Preference will be given to students in their first year of study to support the transition into post-secondary education.
- Education and any additional expenses related to their disability (e.g. specialized equipment, transportation, personal support services).
- Preference will be given to students who have shown a commitment to their community, particularly in advocating for or supporting individuals with disabilities.
Application Process:
Applying for the scholarship is simple. Here’s how to get started:
1. Click here to complete the Application Form.
2. Submit the following documents:
- One Character reference letter of reference describing the reasons the applicant would be a worthy recipient of the scholarship. This application should highlight the contribution to the community, academic achievements and other accomplishments;
- One Academic letter of reference from a teacher at the applicant’s school or from an individual who is familiar with the applicant.
- A one-page personal letter indicating your school experience, your career aspirations and how your disability affects your life.
- An up-to-date, certified academic transcript.
- Documentation from healthcare provider confirming diagnosis.
3. Please email all documents to Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca by June 30 at midnight.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Requirements for Successful Applicants:
Once selected, scholarship recipients must submit the following:
- A signed media release and photo;
- A letter of appreciation to the donor;
- Social Insurance Number (for CRA reporting); and
- Confirmation of enrollment from your educational institution.
Continuing Successful Applicants:
To maintain the scholarship over four years, recipients must submit the following each year:
- An updated photo;
- A new letter of appreciation describing how the scholarship has helped and how your disability impacts your experience;
- Confirmation of continued enrollment; and
- A current academic transcript.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we’re here to help.
Phone: (403) 235-5662
Email: Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca
We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the next step toward accessible education.
Sun Life Workplace Readiness Program Scholarship
Purpose:
The Sun Life Workplace Readiness Program Scholarship supports Alberta students with disabilities as they transition into post-secondary education and prepare for the workforce. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers and foster accessible education in Alberta.
Scholarship Value:
Each year, one eligible student receives a $2,000 scholarship to assist with post-secondary expenses.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a resident of Alberta;
- Live with a disability; and
- Be enrolled or planning to enroll in a post-secondary institution in Alberta (college, university, vocational, or trades program).
Application Process:
Applying for the scholarship is simple. Here’s how to get started:
1. Click here to complete the Application Form.
2. Submit the following documents:
- A one-page personal letter detailing your motivation, academic commitment, initiative, extracurricular activities, challenges faced and overcome, financial need, career aspirations, and any other relevant information.
- A recent photograph (for potential social media use).
- Documentation from a healthcare provider confirming your diagnosis.
- Proof of enrollment in a post-secondary institution for the Fall semester.
Email all documents to Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca by June 30 at midnight.
Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we’re here to help.
Phone: (403) 235-5662
Email: Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca
We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the next step toward accessible education.
Accessible Technology & Mentorship Program
Purpose:
Easter Seals is pleased to partner with Scotia Bank, through its ScotiaRISE commitment, to offer financial support to students in Alberta who are currently in or who will be entering high school in the Fall.
The support is intended for any student with a disability who is currently enrolled in or entering high school in Fall. The scholarship’s objective is to reduce financial barriers for the students as they complete high school and assist them in preparing for a successful transition into post-secondary education or entry into the workforce.
Scholarship Value:
The scholarships are valued at $1000 per student. Students can apply the funding toward purchasing laptops, learning aids or other specialized/adaptive learning equipment, learning software, or tutoring and other costs required for school.
Eligibility Criteria:
To qualify, applicants must:
- A resident of Alberta,
- Have a disability,
- Currently attending or will be attending high school in Fall 2024,
- Demonstrated commitment to the academic process,
- Articulated plan for the future,
- Commitment to participate in mentorship to the best of their ability.
Application Process:
Applying for the scholarship is simple. Here’s how to get started:
1. Click here to complete the Application Form.
2. Submit the following documents:
- A cover letter outlining why you should receive this grant. You can include information on your motivation, academic commitment, initiative, extra-curricular activities, challenges faced (and overcome), financial need, and/or any other relevant information that would strengthen your application. Please include a picture that can be used for media purposes, if required.
- A letter or copy of email documentation from a healthcare professional (e.g. doctor or therapist) attesting to your disability.
- Documentation confirming that you are currently enrolled in high school.
Contact Information
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, we’re here to help.
Phone: (403) 235-5662
Email: Scholarships@easterseals.ab.ca
We encourage all eligible students to apply and take the next step toward accessible education.
