Canadian students living with a disability, this scholarship is for you.

The Rick & Amanda Hansen Scholarships for Youth with Disabilities, funded generously by the April 1 Foundation, are open now for applications. If you're a Canadian student who will be attending a public college or university in Canada, full-time, you should be sure to apply before Friday, May 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. There are two to four scholarships available for 2026, each worth up to $10,000 per year, to a maximum of $40,000 per scholarship recipient who is enrolled in a 1- to 4-year post-secondary program.

Who is eligible for a Rick & Amanda Hansen scholarship?

These scholarships are intended for Canadian students under 30 years old (as of the application deadline) who live with a disability.

How does the scholarship program define 'disability'?

You can take a look at the Proof of Disability Form (PDF) which you'll need to submit with your application. A person with a disability, defined as a functional limitation — whether permanent or episodic in nature — that, when interacting with barriers, results in a restriction of full and equal participation. Attitudinal and physical barriers can prevent the student's equitable access to meaningful participation in post-secondary education.

As part of this form, an authorized medical practitioner will need to describe your disability and explain how it impacts your participation in college or university.

Other eligibility requirements before applying

Students must be Canadian citizens, or permanent residents of Canada, and under the age of 30 as of the May 15, 2026 deadline.

Applicants must be studying full-time at a public Canadian institution, pursuing a one- to four-year program in any field.

There's also a restriction on receiving other financial awards in excess of $2,500 — with the crucial exception of student loans. For example, receiving a $10,000 student loan from OSAP is no problem, but receiving a $10,000 scholarship from another organization would make you ineligible for a Rick & Amanda Hansen scholarship.

Please also be aware that an authorized medical practitioner will need to fill out a Proof of Disability form (PDF). It's a simple form, but be sure to give your medical practitioner a chance to complete and return it to you.

How will my application be assessed?

Four main factors go into assessment of applicants:

• Alignment with Rick & Amanda Hansen's values: perseverance, inclusivity, and being a difference maker. A difference maker is someone who creates positive change in their community and in the lives of others.
• Clarity of your career goals and how your program of study fits them.
• Ability to complete your chosen program successfully.
• Financial need for a little help paying for school.

How do I apply for a Rick & Amanda Hansen scholarship?

If you meet all the eligibility requirements, submit your application online before the May 15, 2026 deadline.

To do so, you'll fill out a form with your basic info, along with an estimate of your annual tuition cost.

You'll also need to submit a couple of short statements, to a maximum of 500-750 characters each. Here are the prompts you'll respond to:

• Describe your achievements demonstrating each of Rick and Amanda Hansen's three values. Provide clear, concrete examples of your work, leadership, and impact. Keep responses succinct.
  • a. Perseverance. Provide specific examples of overcoming obstacles, your persistence in achieving your goals, or continuous effort despite difficulties. (Maximum 500 characters)
  • b. Inclusivity. Tell us about instances where you have promoted understanding, worked to break down barriers for yourself or others, or created an inclusive environment. (Maximum 500 characters)
  • c. Being a Difference Maker. Provide specific examples of a time you took initiative, volunteered, or started projects where you have personally contributed to creating positive change. (Maximum 500 characters)
• Explain how your chosen program aligns with your strengths, skills, and academic achievements. (Maximum 750 characters)
• Describe how your selected program will support you in achieving your career goals. (Maximum 500 characters)
• Describe how this scholarship will help you overcome financial barriers to pursuing and completing postsecondary education. (Maximum 750 characters)

What else is required to complete my application?

Alongside your application form and personal statement prompts, you'll also need to submit some paperwork. The paperwork will need to be combined into one electronic file. You'll need:

• A copy of your resumé — one or two pages outlining your skills, achievements, and extra-curricular or community involvement.
• Two reference letters — at least one should be from a teacher or principal. Don't use a family member!
• Your two most recent transcripts from high school or post-secondary — copies are fine.
• A copy of the Proof of Disability form (PDF), completed by an authorized medical practitioner. This is a simple form but it requires your medical practitioner's signature and stamp to confirm your diagnosis.

All material will be kept in the strictest confidence; read the terms and conditions document (PDF) and privacy webpage to learn more about the Foundation's privacy policy.

If the Rick & Amanda Hansen scholarship program sounds appealing to you, be sure to visit the Rick Hansen Foundation website for a link to the application form. Or, if you're really ready, click here to start your application today! Remember, applications for these scholarships close May 15, 2026.