The Loran Scholars Foundation offers one of Canada’s most comprehensive merit-based undergraduate scholarships, designed to find and support exceptional young leaders with character, service, and leadership potential.
Since its founding in 1988, the Foundation has invested in promising Canadian students who demonstrate integrity, courage, grit, and personal autonomy, beyond just academic excellence.
What is the Loran Award?
The Loran Award is Canada’s largest and most comprehensive undergraduate merit award. It provides financial support, personal development opportunities, and individualised mentorship to help scholars reach their full potential as leaders and change-makers in Canadian society.
Key Components of the Loran Award
- Financial Support: Valued at approximately $100,000 over four years, including a $10,000 annual stipend, tuition waiver at one of 25 partner universities, mentorship, summer internship funding, and annual retreats
- Mentorship Program: Each scholar is matched with a mentor in their field of interest
- Summer Internships: Funding for three distinct summer experiences in different sectors and regions
- Orientation Expedition: An immersive wilderness trip before beginning university
- Annual Retreats: Opportunities to connect with fellow scholars and alumni
Eligibility Requirements
The Loran Scholars Foundation looks for specific qualities in applicants:
- Canadian citizenship or permanent residency
- Minimum overall average of 85%
- Graduating from high school in the year of application
- Maximum age of 19 for Quebec CEGEP applicants
- Character, service, and leadership potential
- Commitment to community service
- Integrity and moral courage
Application Process
The Loran Scholars Foundation uses a rigorous three-phase selection process:
- Initial Application: Online submission including essays, activity lists, and reference letters
- Semi-Finalist Interviews: Regional interviews with local volunteers
- National Selections: Final interviews in Toronto with national selectors
Important Dates
- Application Opening: September 2025
- Application Deadline: Mid-October 2025 (typically around October 15)
- Semi-Finalist Interviews: November 2025
- National Selections: February 2026
Partner Universities
The Loran Award can be used at 25 Canadian universities, including:
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- Queen’s University
- University of Waterloo
- Dalhousie University
- Western University
- University of Alberta
- McMaster University
- And 16 other institutions across Canada
Additional Scholarships
The Foundation also offers:
- Loran Provincial Awards: $2,000 one-time scholarships for provincial finalists
- Loran Finalist Awards: $5,000 one-time scholarships for national finalists who are not selected as Loran Scholars
How to Prepare a Competitive Application
Demonstrate Character Through:
- Sustained community involvement
- Evidence of initiative and innovation
- Authentic commitment to causes you care about
- Examples of overcoming challenges
- Leadership that empowers others
Application Tips:
- Start early to collect evidence of your activities
- Seek meaningful recommendation letters
- Present authentic experiences rather than focusing solely on achievements
- Show depth of commitment rather than breadth of activities
- Clearly articulate how your experiences have shaped your values
Impact and Alumni Network
Loran Scholars go on to:
- Lead organizations and initiatives across sectors
- Serve communities across Canada and internationally
- Join a network of over 800 scholars and alumni
- Access ongoing professional development and connection opportunities
Conclusion
The Loran Award represents more than financial assistance; it’s an investment in character-driven leadership and potential. The Foundation seeks individuals who will contribute meaningfully to their communities and to Canadian society.
The rigorous selection process and comprehensive program components are designed to identify and nurture students with exceptional promise and help them develop into the leaders of tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply for the Loran Award?
No, applicants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Does the Loran Award cover graduate studies?
No, the Loran Award is exclusively for undergraduate studies.
Can I apply if I’ve taken a gap year?
Yes, as long as you haven’t enrolled in a post-secondary program.
What if I’m not selected as a Loran Scholar?
Many applicants find the application process valuable regardless of outcome. Unsuccessful candidates often receive Provincial or Finalist Awards and can pursue other scholarship opportunities.
Is the Loran Award renewable?
Yes, scholars maintain their award by meeting academic requirements and participating in Foundation activities.
Can I study any program with the Loran Award?
Yes, scholars are free to study any discipline at partner universities.