Rick and Amanda Hansen believe that people of all abilities should have the right to a barrier-free education. The Rick & Amanda Hansen Scholarship for Youth with Disabilities, funded generously by the April 1 Foundation, provides financial support to Canadian youth with disabilities to pursue post-secondary education and realize their full potential.
This scholarship aims to make a profound impact on the lives of Canadian youth with disabilities by removing financial barriers and supporting career aspirations through post-secondary education.
Funding of up to $10,000 per year (up to a maximum of $40,000) is available for youth with disabilities looking to complete a 1- to 4-year post-secondary program at a publicly funded institution in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria
- Person with a disability, defined as functional limitation – whether permanent or episodic – which affects the student's ability to participate in post-secondary education;
- Under the age of 30 years as of the application deadline;
- Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada;
- Eligible for domestic tuition at a publicly funded post-secondary institution or training program at a public university, college or institute in Canada;
- Enrolling full-time for a 1- to 4-year post-secondary program at a publicly funded post-secondary institution in Canada; and
- Not receiving other financial awards that total more than $2,500 per year (excluding student loans).
- Applicants are responsible for ensuring that any funding received from the Rick & Amanda Hansen Scholarship will not negatively affect the status of any benefits and subsidies that they are eligible for.
Application Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be evaluated using the following criteria:
- Demonstrate alignment with Rick & Amanda Hansen’s values of perseverance, inclusivity and being a Difference Maker;
- Clarity of career goals and alignment with the chosen academic program;
- Ability to successfully complete the chosen academic program; and
- Financial necessity of scholarship.
Applications are currently closed and will re-open for the 2025/26 academic year in January 2025.
Learn about the recipients for the 2024-25 Academic Year on our blog.
Proof of Disability Form
Download this form and ask your physician to complete it for your application.