Hanson T. Dowell Athletic/Academic Award

What you will need

• ✓ Completed award application form, with two letters of reference (a personal letter is optional)
• ✓ Completed academic reference form, filled in by your school counsellor or principal, with your official transcript of marks

About this award

You can receive a $2,000.00 award. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a graduating high school student who balances your academics with registered hockey in Nova Scotia. You must apply by April 15, 2026. Hockey Nova Scotia only contacts the students who are selected as winners, so you will not receive a notification if you are not chosen. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Hockey Nova Scotia how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. Ask Hockey Nova Scotia 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 Hockey Nova Scotia whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be a graduating high school student who participates in Hockey Nova Scotia-registered hockey; two of these awards are presented each year. You must also intend to continue your studies at a Canadian university or college.

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 high school students
• ✓ Resident of Nova Scotia

How to apply

1. 1

   Read the award's official page

   Check you meet every requirement, and note each document they ask for.

2. 2

   Order your transcript1–2 weeks

   Your school's registrar can take a week or two.

3. 3

   Ask for reference letters2 weeks

   Give your referees at least two weeks' notice, and send them your résumé.

4. 4

   This round closed on April 15, 2026

   Check the award's official page for the next round before you prepare anything.

Tips for applying

• Athletic AchievementAvoid just stating that you play hockey. Instead, describe your specific role and contributions to your Hockey Nova Scotia-registered team. Mention any leadership roles you held on the ice.
• ReferencesAvoid having your referee write a generic letter. Instead, ensure your academic reference focuses on your ability to balance high-level sports with your schoolwork. Provide your school counsellor or principal with a few examples of your best projects.
• StrategyAvoid waiting until the last minute to mail your forms. Instead, send your application via email to kdalrymple@hockeynovascotia.ca to ensure it is received instantly. Double-check that both the award and reference forms are attached.
• RealismAvoid counting on this money, since only two awards are presented annually. Instead, apply for several other scholarships at the same time. This spreads your risk and increases your total funding potential.

Questions students ask

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