Grade 9 Merit Scholarships

List of 13 frequently asked questions.

• Who is eligible to apply for the Grade 9 Merit Scholarships?

  Incoming Grade 9 students who have completed the application process, or have been accepted to, SMLS and who demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and commitment in one of the scholarship pillars are eligible to apply. Both current and new students are eligible.

• How many scholarships are available?

  Two Grade 9 Merit Scholarships are awarded each year.

• What is the value of the scholarship?

  Each Merit Scholarship is valued at $20,000 per year.

• What areas of achievement are recognized?

  Scholarships are awarded to students demonstrating excellence in these areas:

  • Athletics
  • The Arts
  • STEM & Robotics
  • Global Citizenship
  • Leadership

• What is required as part of the application?

  Applicants must submit:

  • The SMLS Scholarship Application
  • The scholarship entrance exam, including open response essay-style questions
  • A video submission or digital presentation
  • A reference letter from a teacher, coach, instructor, or mentor

• When is the application deadline?

  All scholarship applications must be submitted by February 20, 2026.

• Are the scholarships renewable?

  Yes. Scholarships are renewable annually throughout Senior School, provided recipients continue to meet the renewal criteria: maintain strong academic standing (minimum 85% academic average), actively participate in their Signature Program, demonstrate leadership within the SMLS community, and consistently uphold the values and conduct expected of an SMLS student.

• What are the renewal requirements?

  To maintain the scholarship, students must:

  • Achieve a minimum 85% cumulative academic average
  • Actively participate in their designated Signature Program (including participation in related council/committee)
  • Demonstrate leadership within the SMLS community
  • Uphold SMLS values and maintain exemplary student conduct

• How are recipients selected?

  Recipients are selected through a competitive review process by the Scholarship Committee, based on academic achievement, demonstrated excellence in the chosen pillar, leadership potential, and alignment with SMLS values.
  
  

  Please note that the initial application form and exam will be reviewed through a blind evaluation process to ensure a fair and equitable assessment of each candidate.

• When will scholarship decisions be communicated?

  Successful candidates will be notified following the completion of the application review process. Renewal decisions are reviewed annually each spring.

• Is this a bursary?

  This Merit Based scholarship is not a bursary.
  
  A bursary is a form of need-based financial support meant to help families who may otherwise be unable to afford tuition. Unlike merit scholarships, which recognize student achievement, bursaries are awarded based on financial need.

• How do I apply for a bursary?

  Families wishing to be considered for need based financial support should complete an Apple Financial Services application each year. Apple Financial reviews your family’s financial information and provides a confidential eligibility report to SMLS’s Financial Aid Committee.

• Who can I contact for more information?

  For questions about eligibility, application requirements, or timelines, please contact scholarships@smls.on.ca