Mary O'Donnell Memorial Award

What you will need

• ✓ Completed General Application via Holland College's awards portal

About this award

You can receive a $500 award. As a bursary, this money is yours to keep — there is nothing to repay. This is for you if you are pursuing an education in the OTA / PTA (Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant) program at Holland College and can show you have financial need. You must apply by November 1, 2026. When you apply, ask how and when you'll hear back — email, portal, or phone. Holland College lists this award's criteria on its official page (see Who qualifies). Ask Holland College how winners are picked among the students who meet them and how many usually apply, so you can judge your odds. Ask Holland College 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 Holland College whether it's one-time or renewable and what you need to maintain.

Who qualifies

You must be pursuing an education in the OTA / PTA (Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant) program at Holland College. You must demonstrate financial need. A preference is given to those with dependents.

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 certificate students
• ✓ Studying Occupational Therapy Assistant or Physiotherapy Assistant

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

   Submit your application

   Save a copy, and submit at least a day before the deadline shown above.

Tips for applying

• Financial NeedAvoid providing vague statements about your expenses. Instead, list your specific monthly costs and income gaps. Provide a clear breakdown of your current financial situation.
• SupportAvoid using a generic character reference. Instead, ask a teacher or mentor who knows your dedication to the healthcare field to write your letter. Ensure they mention your reliability in a clinical setting.
• StrategyAvoid leaving your General Application incomplete. Since you are automatically considered based on that form, double-check that every section is finished before the deadline.
• RealismAvoid assuming this award is guaranteed because you fit the profile. Instead, treat it as a supplement to your main funding plan while you wait for the November 1 deadline.

Questions students ask

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