About Scholars Academy
Scholars Academy is a community of exceptional undergraduate students who collaborate to serve the community with the application of academic leadership and intellectual curiosity. The support services provided by the program are designed to maximize high achieving students’ potential as they work towards their academic and professional goals.
One-on-one Support
Scholars Academy’s team of academic support specialists offers one-on-one support for high-achieving students eligible for prestigious scholarships in Canada and around the world. We have helped students apply to some of the most competitive scholarships in the world (such as the McCall MacBain Scholarship at McGill University and the Rhodes Program at Oxford University) and fellowships (such as the 3M National Student Fellowship). Please contact jonathan.shaw@smu.ca for more information.
To explore sections of the Scholars Academy page, use the quick links below:
McCall MacBain Scholarship
McCall MacBain Scholarship
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is Canada’s first comprehensive, leadership-based scholarship for master’s and professional degree students. It supports exceptional individuals who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities and who demonstrate a strong capacity for leadership, service, and academic excellence.
Scholars pursue fully funded graduate studies at McGill University while participating in an interdisciplinary leadership development program and connecting with experienced mentors and a global cohort of changemakers.
Key 2026 Application Dates (for Fall 2026 entry at McGill University):
Applications open: Sunday, June 1, 2025
Deadline for international applicants: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Deadline for Canadian and U.S. applicants: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Eligibility Highlights:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Be a current student on track to complete their first bachelor's degree by August 2026
Have earned their first bachelor's degree in the last five years (January 2020 or later)
Have earned their first bachelor’s degree more than five years ago and be 30 years old or younger on January 1, 2025
Additional eligibility includes:
Meeting the admission requirements for an eligible master’s or professional program at McGill
Satisfying McGill’s language proficiency requirements
How to Apply:
Candidates apply online through the McCall MacBain Scholarships website. The application includes transcripts, references, short essays, and video responses. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to regional interviews in Fall 2025, with finalists attending in-person interviews in Montréal in early 2026.
Need support with your application? The Scholars Academy team at The Studio can help you review your materials and prepare for interviews. Reach out early for personalized feedback.
Learn More & Prepare:
The McCall MacBain Foundation offers detailed resources and webinars to guide applicants through the process, including tips on preparing strong applications and interviews.
👉 Visit the official McCall MacBain Scholarships website
👉 Explore McGill’s eligible programs and admission requirements
For additional resources or support at SMU, please contact jonathan.shaw@smu.ca.
Rhodes Scholarship
The Rhodes Scholarship is one of the world’s most prestigious international scholarship programs. Established in 1902, it enables exceptional students from around the globe to pursue fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford.
Each year, 11 scholarships are awarded to students in Canada across six regional selection committees. Students currently studying in Canada can apply based on either the region of their ordinary residence or the university from which they will receive their degree. Applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and meet specific eligibility criteria related to age, academic achievement, and residency.
Key 2026 Application Dates (for Oxford entry in October 2026):
Applications open: Monday, June 2, 2025
Applications close: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Reference deadline: Monday, September 29, 2025
Eligibility Highlights:
Aged 18–23 on October 1, 2025 (some exceptions up to age 27 for later graduates)
Must have completed (or be on track to complete) an undergraduate degree by July 2026
A minimum GPA of 3.70 or equivalent is strongly recommended
Must meet the academic and language requirements of their intended Oxford program
How to Apply:
Candidates must submit their online application, including academic transcripts, CV, personal and academic statements, six references, and an institutional endorsement. The application is made directly through the Rhodes Trust website. Finalists must attend interviews and events in their regional constituency in November 2025.
The Scholars Academy team at The Studio can assist with reviewing your personal statements, preparing for interviews, and coordinating your endorsement process. Contact us for guidance and support.
Learn More & Prepare:
The Rhodes Trust offers detailed application guidance, including advice on personal statements, choosing a course at Oxford, and preparing references.
👉 Visit the official Rhodes Scholarship website
👉 Read the full 2026 Canada Information for Candidates PDF
For additional resources or support at SMU, please contact jonathan.shaw@smu.ca.
