The Terry Fox Humanitarian Award opens its 2026–27 application cycle on November 1, 2026, with applications due December 1 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. The current provider pages state a maximum award of CAD $30,000 over four years. As of October 13, the upcoming submission window has not opened.
What is the award?
The national Terry Fox Humanitarian Award recognises courage, compassion and voluntary contributions to human welfare. It is administered by its own programme, which is separate from the Terry Fox Foundation and Terry Fox Run. Institution-specific awards bearing Terry Fox’s name can have different values and rules.
Use the official application cycle page to confirm opening and closing dates. The programme’s applicant information provides eligibility and the current value.
| Maximum value | CAD $30,000 over four years |
|---|---|
| Annual amount | Up to $7,500 |
| Opening | November 1, 2026 |
| Deadline | December 1, 2026, 11:59 p.m. PT |
| Study destination | Eligible Canadian post-secondary institution |
How funding is paid
The annual stipend is paid directly to the institution in two instalments of up to $3,750, in September and January. Renewal depends on satisfactory academic standing, humanitarian work and personal conduct, with support ending at completion of the first degree or diploma or the maximum funding period.
The current FAQs also state the $30,000 maximum. Older references quoting $28,000 should not be used to estimate the current award. Check your eventual offer for the amount and conditions that apply to you.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants are Canadian citizens, landed immigrants or permanent residents in good academic standing. They must be involved in unpaid humanitarian activities and plan to pursue, or already pursue, their first degree or diploma at a Canadian institution. The programme also includes specified CEGEP pathways.
The award is open to students of all abilities and is not restricted to a particular discipline. Already being at college or university does not automatically exclude you, provided you meet the first-degree and other criteria. Financial need is not itself the selection criterion.
Transcript and three referees
The application instructions require three referees and an uploaded transcript covering the last two years of schooling. Referees receive an email link to complete their own forms. All accompanying material must be received by the closing deadline.
Choose people who know your actual character, activities and contribution. The provider excludes relatives as referees. Ask early, explain the award’s purpose and provide a factual summary of work they have observed. Do not write a referee’s response for them or assume that listing a name completes their part.
Prepare the transcript in the format requested by the live application. Candidates selected for interview may need official records. Keep enough time for schools to issue those documents if requested.
How to prepare and apply
- Confirm the eligibility rules and upcoming cycle dates.
- Identify three suitable referees and ask whether they can meet the deadline.
- Gather your transcript and evidence of voluntary activities.
- When the window opens, complete the official online application.
- Check that your own application, transcript and all referee forms are complete before December 1.
For the essay, explain the humanitarian need you addressed, what you personally did and how others benefited. Show persistence through a specific difficulty rather than relying on general statements about caring. Distinguish unpaid service from paid employment so the reviewer can assess the relevant contribution.
A useful private tracker can show each requirement, who completes it and its status. Revisit it before the final week. This preparation method is an editorial suggestion, not a separate provider form.
After the deadline
The programme reviews complete applications and invites shortlisted candidates to interviews, generally in April. Follow your invitation for the confirmed format: public pages describe differing arrangements. Keep contact details current and prepare to discuss your service accurately.
Related Canadian opportunities
See the Loran Award, Schulich Leader Scholarships and Sun Life Inclusion programme.
Frequently asked questions
Is the next cycle open now?
No. The published opening is November 1, 2026.
Must my school nominate me?
No. Eligible students may apply themselves.
Can the award fund study abroad?
No. The provider requires an eligible institution in Canada.