Scholarship · School programs · Terry Fox Humanitarian Award Program

Terry Fox Humanitarian Award

Up to $28,000 over four years for students who volunteer in humanitarian work. The 2026–27 application opens November 1, 2026 and closes December 1.

Last checked October 5, 2026 against the official page

What do I need to do?

Apply at apply.terryfoxawards.ca between Nov 1 and Dec 1

Who acts
Student
Preparation
Some preparation Three referees and a transcript; ask referees in October
Eligible grades
Grade 12
Format
Online application with three referees and a transcript. Shortlisted students are interviewed in their province in April.
Cost
Free to apply.
Official site
terryfoxawards.ca

Key dates

  • ConfirmedApplications openSun, November 1, 2026Remind me
  • ConfirmedDeadline (11:59 p.m. PT), including referee formsTue, December 1, 2026Remind me
  • ExpectedRecipients announcedMay 2027

Get a reminder before every deadline for your child →

Confirmed official date · Expected based on last year · Not announced yet

What it is

For high school graduates (and students already in post-secondary) heading to a first degree or diploma at a Canadian institution.

Applicants must be Canadian citizens, landed immigrants or permanent residents, in good academic standing, and involved in unpaid humanitarian volunteer work.

The award is $3,500 per semester ($7,000 a year), up to $28,000 over four years, renewable with good standing.

A good fit if: Grade 12 students with a real record of volunteer service.

How to register

  1. Apply at apply.terryfoxawards.ca from November 1, 2026.
  2. Everything, including the three referee forms and an unofficial transcript of the last two years, must be in by 11:59 p.m. PT on December 1. Late documents aren't considered.

How to prepare

  • Ask three referees in October so they have time before December 1.
  • List your child's volunteer work with dates and hours. The award is about unpaid humanitarian service.

For grade-by-grade options see Grade 12.

Common questions

Can my child apply once they're already at university?

Yes. Students can apply until they've received their first university degree.

Can the award be used outside Canada?

No. It's only for an accredited post-secondary institution in Canada.

Sources

Last checked October 5, 2026. Dates can change, so always confirm with the organizer.