John Shirra Memorial Scholarship

What you will need

• ✓ Proof of Canadian citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid Canadian student visa
• ✓ Proof of enrollment in 3rd year or beyond in the Bachelor of Commerce program at the Haskayne School of Business (University of Calgary)
• ✓ One letter of reference
• ✓ Proof of athletic involvement

About this award

You can receive one of two awards valued at a minimum of $2,000 each. This is a scholarship, not a loan, so you do not have to pay it back. This is for you if you are a University of Calgary student who balances a strong entrepreneurial spirit and athletic involvement with a dedication to your community. You must apply by June 1, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — whether it is through email, a portal, or a phone call. Selection criteria aren't published — ask Calgary Foundation how winners are chosen and roughly how many applicants they typically receive so you can judge your odds. The money is applied directly to your tuition. Confirm with Calgary Foundation during your application if there are any other specific payment steps you need to take. Renewal conditions aren't listed — if you're counting on this for multiple years, confirm with Calgary Foundation whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

To qualify, you must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Canadian student visa. You must be enrolled in your 3rd year or beyond in the Bachelor of Commerce program at the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary. You also need to show a commitment to leadership, community development, and athletic involvement. Financial need may be considered during the selection process.

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.

• ✓ Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• ✓ Open to undergraduate students
• ✓ Resident of Alberta
• ✓ Studying Bachelor of Commerce

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

   Ask for reference letters2 weeks

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

3. 3

   This round closed on June 1, 2026

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

Tips for applying

• Community LeadershipAvoid listing a series of clubs you joined without explaining your impact. Instead, describe specific projects you led and the actual results you achieved for others. Give a concrete example of a time you organized an activity or helped a group grow.
• ReferencesAvoid providing a generic letter from a teacher who barely knows you. Instead, choose a referee who can personally vouch for your character, humor, and adventurous spirit. Ask your referee to mention specific traits that match John Shirra's legacy.
• StrategyAvoid focusing only on your grades. Instead, highlight your "balanced lifestyle," showing you are athletes and entrepreneurs as well as students. Make sure your application proves you are a well-rounded person, not just a high-achiever in class.
• RealismAvoid assuming that being in the program makes you a shoe-in. With only two awards available, this is a narrow window. Focus your energy on proving you embody the specific personality traits requested—like humor and community spirit—to stand out from other commerce students.

Questions students ask

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