OpenCircle Scholarships
Scholarships can open doors for those entering post-secondary studies. Since 2002, we have awarded more than $1.1 million in scholarships. This program is open to the dependent children of OpenCircle Contractors Association members who are pursuing post-secondary or technical training at a accredited post-secondary institutions in Canada. Proof of enrollment is required.
The application period for 2026-2027 academic year is Closed We will begin accepting applications on November 1, 2026.
The application period for 2026-2027 academic year is Open We will be accepting applications till February 28, 2027. If your child is attending post-secondary during the 2026/2027 year, and hasn’t received an OpenCircle scholarship in the past, they can apply!
Should you have questions about the Scholarship Program, including more information on how you can qualify during the next application window, please click the button below.
Scholarship FAQ's
Get the facts you need about our scholarship program. If you have additional questions that are not covered in the FAQ section below please reach out to our team using the link above.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
You apply by completing the application form. Once completed, please email the required documents to scholarship@opencircle.ca.
When do I apply for the scholarship?
Application intake will begin November 1, 2026. Application submission deadline will be February 28, 2027.
Can I apply for this scholarship more than once?
No. If you have already received an OpenCircle scholarship in the past, you cannot receive another.
I have been accepted into an eligible post-secondary institution for next year. Can I apply for a scholarship this year?
To be eligible for an OpenCircle Scholarship, you must be actively attending post-secondary studies during the current scholastic window, so you would not qualify this year. However, we encourage you to apply once you start your studies.
I am in a trades program; can I still apply for the scholarship?
Yes. Students enrolled in a trades program are eligible to apply for a scholarship if the applicant and school meet the eligibility criteria.
I am an employee enrolled in trades school with an OpenCircle member Company. Can I apply for a scholarship?
No – the OpenCircle Scholarship is only available to dependent children of OpenCircle Member employees under age 25.
My spouse is an OpenCircle employee. Can I apply for the scholarship?
The scholarship is only available to dependent children of OpenCircle Contractors Association member employees.
What counts as proof of enrolment?
Proof of enrollment is a document from your post-secondary institution that confirms that you are actively enrolled in studies for the current period and shows the school’s information identifying you as the student. Examples include a confirmation of enrollment letter, a copy of your class schedule (with your information clearly visible on the class schedule), or unofficial transcripts. We do not accept: Invoices, acceptance letters, admission offers, email confirmations from the institution, or trades cards as proof of enrollment.
What if I don’t have my proof of enrolment?
The application cannot be accepted without verification of enrollment from your educational institution. Most schools will provide a letter showing proof of enrollment, and most students have access to their class schedules online.
How do I know if my school is a designated educational institution?
No – the scholarships are only available to students attending a post-secondary institution in Canada.
My post-secondary institution is not in Canada, but I live in Canada. Can I still apply for the scholarship?
Please refer to the Government of Canada’s list of designated schools through Employment and Social Development Canada.
Why do you need my Social Insurance Number (SIN)?
If you are awarded a scholarship, OpenCircle must report it to the Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) and issue you a T4a for the Award. To do this, your SIN is required, so we cannot issue you a scholarship without your SIN. If you are uncomfortable with providing your SIN on the application form, then our team can take it verbally over the phone with you. Just include a request for our team to call you to collect your SIN when you submit your application.
What do I write in my personal statement?
Tell us about your career goal and ambitions as well as what it would mean to you to receive this award.
When will I find out if I am a recipient of the OpenCircle scholarship?
Successful applicants will be sent a letter and cheque in late April 2027. If you would like to check on the status of your application, please email our team at scholarship@opencircle.ca.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
Please email us at scholarship@opencircle.ca with any questions you have.