Skip to content
Bill Mason solo canoeing.

Bill Mason Memorial Scholarship Application

To be eligible for the Bill Mason Memorial Scholarship, applicants must be:

A Canadian Citizen
Enrolled full-time at a Canadian University or College
Enrolled in undergraduate studies, second (2nd) year or higher standing
Enrolled in an Outdoor Recreation, Education or Environmental Studies, or other related programs
Have an academic standing of B+ (75%) or higher
Background in paddling (canoe, kayak, or SUP), instruction, and/or leading.

Application Deadline

Applications open: May 1, 2024
Applications close: September 30, 2024

Helpful Hints for Completing Your Application

If you need help, do not be afraid to ask. Feel free to contact Paddle Canada if you have any questions or concerns. A university counselor, college advisor, your parents, or even another student may also be of service.

Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Make certain to complete all sections, as incomplete sections will be awarded a value of zero.

Proofread, proofread, and proofread again! Misspelling and grammar errors may reflect poorly on your application. Have a friend or relative double-check your work.

Make certain your application is received on time. The deadline for applications is midnight on September 30 of the current academic year. Incomplete or late packets will be rejected unless Paddle Canada is given prior notification.

Write a letter of thanks if you receive an award. Other than being the polite thing to do, if you are planning to apply for scholarships again in the future, a thank you letter for past scholarships goes a long way in impressing the scholarship committee.

On behalf of the Scholarship Committee, Paddle Canada would also like to extend our sincerest thanks to the many individuals whose generous donations have contributed to the stewardship dream of Bill Mason.

Application Requirements

Cover Letter

This is your opportunity to briefly introduce yourself to the selection committee. Please keep your cover letter to 250 words.

Confirmation of Eligibility

Make sure you provide:

  • a copy of your birth certificate, Canadian passport, or another equivalent document,
  • the full name and address of the college or university in which you are enrolled
  • confirmation of enrolment letter or related document,
  • the name of your program or discipline of study,
  • the name, address, and telephone number of your department head,
  • your current academic year standing and,
  • an official copy of your most recent transcript.

Confirmation of Academic Course Content

Provide a list and brief description of courses that emphasize environmental awareness and/or outdoor education. Do not send the program of study brochures; report only on those courses in which you are enrolled for the current academic year.

Affirmation of Career Objectives

  • Outline any past involvement and leadership within the fields of environmental education, outdoor education or, outdoor recreation.
  • Describe your future job, plans, and/or goals for continuing your involvement with environmental stewardship.

Personal Environment & Educational Philosophy, and Knowledge of the late Bill Mason

Within 250 words please provide a statement of your philosophy regarding your beliefs with reference to the environment, to outdoor education, or outdoor recreation, and to how your philosophy pertains to the ethics of land and water AND, how your philosophy reflects the life and work of Bill Mason.

Demonstrated Need for Financial Assistance

Provide a budget, outlining both expenses, anticipated revenues, and financial shortcomings for the current academic year.

Background in Paddling

Provide a résumé of your paddling experience, involvement in organized paddling and paddling instruction, if any.

On behalf of the Scholarship Committee, Paddle Canada would also like to extend our sincerest thanks to the many individuals whose generous donations have contributed to the stewardship dream of Bill Mason.