If you are a high-achieving high school student in Alberta planning to start college or university in the 2026/2027 academic year, the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship is one of the most important awards you should consider.
Funded by the Government of Alberta, this scholarship rewards academic excellence in senior high school and encourages students to pursue post-secondary education. It is named after Alexander Rutherford, Alberta’s first Premier and Minister of Education, who strongly supported public education.
In this detailed guide, you will learn:
What the scholarship is about
Who is eligible in 2026/2027
How much you can receive
How to apply step-by-step
Important tips to avoid mistakes
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What Is the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship?
The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship is a merit-based financial award designed to recognize and reward academic achievement in Grades 10, 11, and 12.
It is not a need-based scholarship. Instead, it focuses on:
Strong academic performance
Completion of specific core courses
Enrollment in an approved full-time post-secondary program
The scholarship helps students cover expenses such as tuition, books, and educational materials.
Scholarship Value for 2026/2027
The maximum total value of the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship is up to $2,500 CAD.
The amount you receive depends on your academic average in five designated courses from Grade 10, 11, or 12.
Award Breakdown by Grade Level
Students may qualify at one, two, or all three grade levels:
Grade 10: Up to $400
Grade 11: Up to $800
Grade 12: Up to $1,300
If you qualify at all three levels, you may receive the full $2,500.
Minimum Average Required
A minimum average of 75% in five designated subjects is required to qualify.
Higher averages (80% or above) qualify for higher award amounts.
Only approved subjects are counted, including English or Français and other core academic courses.
Merit-based scholarship for Alberta high school graduates.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026/2027
To qualify for the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, you must meet all eligibility conditions.
1. Citizenship Status
You must be one of the following:
A Canadian citizen
A Permanent Resident of Canada
A Protected Person under Canadian immigration law
International students on study permits are not eligible.
2. Alberta Residency
You must be considered an Alberta resident at the time of high school graduation.
This usually means:
You or your parent/legal guardian lived in Alberta for at least 12 consecutive months before starting post-secondary studies.
3. High School Graduation
You must:
Have completed high school
Be entering full-time post-secondary studies
There is no requirement to apply immediately after graduation, but you must apply within the eligible timeframe set by Alberta Student Aid.
4. Post-Secondary Enrollment
To receive the scholarship payment, you must be enrolled full-time in:
A university
A college
A technical institute
An approved apprenticeship program
Your institution must confirm your enrollment before the scholarship funds are released.
How the Scholarship Is Calculated
The scholarship is calculated using your official high school transcript.
Alberta Student Aid reviews:
Five designated courses
Your combined average in those subjects
The grade level where you qualify (10, 11, or 12)
You do not need to qualify in all three grades. Even one strong academic year can earn you part of the scholarship.
This makes the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship accessible to many hardworking students.
How to Apply for the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship 2026/2027 Application
The application process is straightforward and done online through the Alberta Student Aid portal
Step 1: Create an Alberta Student Aid Account
Register and verify your identity.
Step 2: Wait for Final Marks
Ensure your official transcript is available.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Select the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship and enter:
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Your post-secondary institution details
Your program start date
Step 4: Enrollment Confirmation
Your school confirms you are enrolled full-time.
Step 5: Receive Payment
Once approved, funds are issued directly to you.
Processing typically takes a few weeks after enrollment confirmation.
When to Apply in 2026/2027
There is no strict early deadline like many competitive scholarships.
Most students apply:
In late summer
Or early fall
After final transcripts are available
It is best to apply as soon as:
Your marks are finalized
You are officially enrolled
Applying early helps avoid delays.
Additional Awards You May Be Considered For
When applying for the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, you may automatically be considered for other merit-based awards offered by the Government of Alberta.
These may include:
The Rutherford Scholar Award
The Dr. Ernest and Minnie Mehl Scholarship
The Mildred Rowe Weston Memorial Scholarship
No separate application is usually required.
Why the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship Is Important
Many students overlook provincial scholarships and focus only on large national awards.
However, the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship:
Is guaranteed if you meet academic criteria
Is not highly competitive like entrance scholarships
Rewards consistent academic performance
Can be combined with other scholarships
For students in Alberta, this is one of the easiest merit-based awards to secure if you qualify academically.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
If you are currently in Grade 10 or 11 and planning for 2026/2027, here are smart strategies:
1. Focus on Core Courses
English, math, and approved academic subjects matter most.
2. Aim for 80% or Higher
While 75% qualifies you, higher averages increase your award amount.
3. Track Your Grades Early
Know whether you qualify in Grade 10 or 11 before Grade 12.
4. Keep Your Documents Ready
Ensure your SIN and transcript information are accurate.
5. Apply as Soon as Eligible
Do not delay after enrolling in post-secondary studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship competitive?
No. If you meet the academic requirements and eligibility criteria, you receive the award.
Can I receive this scholarship outside Alberta?
Yes, as long as you meet Alberta residency requirements, you can study outside Alberta in an approved institution and still qualify.
Do I need to write an essay?
No essay is required. The award is based purely on academic averages.
Can mature students apply?
Yes, as long as they meet the eligibility conditions and apply within the allowed timeframe.
Conclusion
The Alexander Rutherford Scholarship 2026/2027 remains one of the most reliable and accessible merit-based scholarships for Alberta students.
If you are academically strong and planning to pursue post-secondary education, this scholarship can reduce your financial burden and reward your hard work.
By understanding the eligibility requirements, maintaining strong grades, and applying early, you can maximize your chances of receiving up to $2,500 toward your education.
