Bill MacDonald Creative Writing Prize

Lakehead University

Get $500 for your achievements in creative writing — apply by January 31, 2027, if you are a full-time undergraduate student.

Published by G Paul · last checked October 23, 2026

Total value

$500

Deadline

Jan 31, 2027

Level

Undergraduate

Apply on the official site ↗

What you will need

Unofficial transcript
Creative writing for events or publications

About this award

You get $500.00 as prize. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a creative writer who has shown significant potential in your coursework or through your own publications and events. You must apply by January 31, 2027. When you apply, ask Lakehead University how and when you will hear back — whether it is by email, the portal, or phone. A Committee of Creative Writing instructors in the department of English selects the winner. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Lakehead University how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Lakehead University during your application how the money will reach you — some awards pay students directly, others apply funds to tuition. Confirm this so you can plan your cash flow. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Lakehead University whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be a full-time undergraduate student with achievements in creative writing. To qualify, you must have demonstrated significant potential as a creative writer in an English creative writing course, or you must have participated in extracurricular contributions through creative writing publications or events. A preference will be given to a student with an interest in writing material relevant to Northwestern Ontario.

This is what the award's official page said when we last checked. Rules change, so confirm on the award's official page before you apply.

Open to undergraduate students
Studying English creative writing

Preferred, not required

Preference for students in or from Ontario

How to apply

Read the award's official page
Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.
Order your transcript1–2 weeks
Your school's registrar can take a week or two.
Submit your application
Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

Creative WritingAvoid submitting generic pieces that do not fit the theme. Instead, focus on work that shows your unique voice and potential. Highlight any specific connection you have to Northwestern Ontario if applicable.
StrategyAvoid ignoring the local preference. Instead, consider if any of your work relates to the culture, geography, or people of Northwestern Ontario. Mention this interest explicitly in your application.

Questions students ask

How do I apply?

Use the Apply on the official site button on this page: it opens the official application page in a new tab.

When is the deadline?

Applications close on January 31, 2027. Submit a day or two early: application sites get busy at the end.

Can international students apply?

Check the award's official page for the citizenship rules.

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FundMyCourse.ca · checked Oct 23, 2026