This is to inform the general public that the management of the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship has announced its 2024 scholarship program. The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship is a prestigious award designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement among senior high school students in Alberta.
Alexander Rutherford Scholarship Overview
Purpose
The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward the academic achievements of senior high school students and encourage them to pursue post-secondary education. It is named in honor of Alexander Rutherford, Alberta's first Premier and Minister of Education, known for his strong support of public education.
Scholarship Details
Value
- Up to $2,500
Eligibility
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Protected Person under Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (Visa students are not eligible).
- Residency: Alberta resident for at least 12 months prior to starting post-secondary studies.
- High School Completion: Completed high school on or after September 30, 1980.
- Enrollment: Currently enrolled in full-time undergraduate or apprenticeship studies of at least one semester (Graduate programs are not eligible).
Selection Criteria
- Minimum Average: A combined average from five designated courses in one grade as reflected in official transcripts.
Application Process
Steps to Apply
Prepare to Apply:
- Ensure your official high school transcripts are available.
- Confirm your enrollment in full-time post-secondary studies.
- Complete any high school upgrading credit courses, if applicable.
Submit Application:
- Log in to your Alberta Student Aid account.
- Choose the Alexander Rutherford High School Achievement Scholarship in the Apply section.
- Provide the following information:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Alberta Student Number (ASN)
- Post-secondary institution details
- High school attended
Deadlines and Disbursement
Apply By
- Apply when your official high school marks are available and you are enrolled in full-time post-secondary studies.
Disbursement
- After confirming your enrollment, Alberta Student Aid will mail a cheque within one month.
FAQs
Application Process
Can I use a temporary SIN?
- No, you must have a valid Canadian SIN before applying.
Can I apply if attending school outside Alberta or Canada?
- Yes, as long as the school is eligible under the Alberta Heritage Scholarship Regulation.
Should I apply if unsure about meeting the average?
- Yes, you can still apply; Alberta Student Aid will assess your grades.
Can I upgrade or re-take a course?
- Yes, as long as it is completed before taking higher-level courses and before entering post-secondary studies.
Course Requirements
| Grade | Average | Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 10 | 75.0% to 79.9% | $300 |
| 80% or higher | $400 | |
| Grade 11 | 75.0% to 79.9% | $500 |
| 80% or higher | $800 | |
| Grade 12 | 75.0% to 79.9% | $700 |
| 80% or higher | $1,300 |
Course Requirements by Level
| Level | Courses Required |
|---|---|
| Grade 10 | English 10-1 or 10-2, Français 10-1 or 10-2, Mathematics 10C, Science 10, Social Studies 10-1 or 10-2, Language other than English or French |
| Grade 11 | English 20-1 or 20-2, Français 20-1 or 20-2, Mathematics 20-1 or 20-2, Chemistry 20, Physics 20, Science 20, Biology 20, Social Studies 20-1 or 20-2, Language other than English or French |
| Grade 12 | English 30-1 or 30-2, Français 30-1 or 30-2, Mathematics 30-1, 30-2, or 31, Science 30, Social Studies 30-1 or 30-2, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Physics 30, Language other than English or French |
Special Considerations
- International Baccalaureate (IB) Courses: Eligible for core or option courses.
- Green Certificate Courses: Accepted for Grade 12.
- Home Education: Eligible if following Alberta Programs of Study curriculum.
Making Changes to Your Application
How to Make Changes
If you need to update your application, such as changing your address, delaying your post-secondary study, or altering your choice of educational institution, follow these steps:
Online Updates:
- Log in to your Alberta Student Aid account.
- Use the "Upload Electronic Document" option to submit the required documents.
Contacting Alberta Student Aid:
- For assistance, contact the Alberta Student Aid Service Centre.
Receiving Your Scholarship
Notification and Payment
- Notification: You will be informed in writing of your scholarship status once your official high school transcript marks are available and processed.
- Payment: After confirmation of your post-secondary enrollment, Alberta Student Aid will mail your cheque within approximately one month.
Confirmation of Enrollment
There are two ways to confirm your enrollment:
Automatic Confirmation:
- If you have an Alberta student loan, your school will automatically confirm your enrollment.
Manual Confirmation:
- If you do not have an Alberta student loan, your school will be asked to confirm your enrollment within 30 days of the request.
- If confirmation is not received, you will receive a Confirmation of Registration form to take to your school.
Post-Secondary Enrollment Status
If you withdraw from post-secondary study or switch to part-time status before confirmation of your enrollment, your application may be canceled.
Lost Cheques
If your scholarship cheque is lost or misplaced:
- Request a Replacement: Call the Alberta Student Aid Service Centre to stop payment and request a new cheque.
- Return Found Cheques: If you find the original cheque after requesting a replacement, return it to Alberta Student Aid.
Additional Resources
Scholarships and Awards
Explore other scholarships and awards offered by various organizations. Visit the websites of Alberta’s public universities and colleges for more information.
Contact Information
For more details or assistance:
- Alberta Student Aid Service Centre:
- Phone: [Contact Number]
- Email: [Email Address]
- Mailing Address: Alberta Student Aid
Box 28000 Station Main
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 4R4
Summary
The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship offers financial support to high-achieving Alberta high school graduates pursuing post-secondary studies. With specific eligibility criteria and a detailed application process, this scholarship aims to recognize academic excellence and encourage further education.
For more detailed guidance, refer to the Alberta Student Aid website or contact their service centre for personalized assistance.