Seeking Applicants of Exceptional Promise
York University’s Faculty of Science eagerly awaits applications for its prestigious York Science Scholars Award (YSSA) program. In keeping with our vision of preparing global thinkers to advance knowledge and human progress, the Science Scholars program nurtures the intellectual and career development of high-achieving, passionate science students entering our Faculty. All incoming students, Canadian and International, who have applied for entrance to York University's Faculty of Science for full-time study starting in Fall 2024 are eligible to apply for this program.
What is the York Science Scholars Award Program?
The York Science Scholars program provides up to 12 first-year entering students with awards worth $10,000 each. This Faculty of Science award is considered separately and in addition to any other York University or Faculty of Science admissions awards and scholarships.
The York Science Scholars Award of $10,000 is provided in two parts:
- $5,000 as an entrance scholarship
- $5,000 following a guaranteed summer research position after the first year of study
What makes this Award different?
At York’s Faculty of Science, we acknowledge the importance of hands-on experience in academic and career success. The York Science Scholars Award program combines:
- $5,000 entrance scholarship
- guaranteed full-time, 12-week summer research position following a student’s first year
- $5,000 scholarship upon successful completion of the summer research position
- leading-edge research facilities, and
- one-on-one mentorship from outstanding faculty members
York Science Scholar winners are given the valuable opportunity to earn tuition in a guaranteed summer position during their first summer while participating in advanced scientific exploration.
Applications are now closed for Fall 2024
Follow these steps to apply:
1) Complete the application form
You can fill out the YSSA application form here. Please open the YSSA Application Guidelines to view detailed instructions.
2) Write your personal statements
Please read the Personal Statement Guidelines and Topics carefully and complete two statements for your application.
3) Prepare and upload your resume
You will upload your resume in the Application Form. Please include all paid employment, volunteer experience and any involvement in clubs and activities.
4) Arrange for two references. Only one can be an academic reference (teacher).
Choose references who know you well in a professional or academic setting and can write in regards to your character and qualities. Please include two references, only one of which is an academic reference (teacher). Your second reference can also be a teacher if they are from a non-academic setting (e.g. a coach, volunteer supervisor, etc).
To be eligible for the YSSA, you must provide two (2) letters of reference using the YSSA Reference Letter Form. Please have your references fill out the reference letter form and email it directly to science@yorku.ca. Reference letters must be sent to us DIRECTLY by your references. You cannot submit letters on behalf of your references. All documents needed for your application, including your reference letters, must be received and date stamped by the Faculty of Science before March 1st, 2024 at 12:00PM ET.
5) Submit your application!
Submit all documents and the application form following the instructions above. If you have any questions about filling out your application, please reach out to us at science@yorku.ca. You are responsible for ensuring that all required documents are submitted on time or your application will be at risk of disqualification.
Past YSSA Winners
Jacqueline D
The YSSA award has given me a chance to explore other subjects outside my major, broadening my skills in statistical analysis and data manipulation. It has allowed me to write a paper on a very current topic and has given me the opportunity to be mentored by professors with experience in the field. I have learned many new skills throughout the summer that will help me succeed in my university career.
Sakina H
Through the YSSA experience, I have had the opportunity to connect with other students as well as faculty. I was able to connect with other like-minded individuals and forge new friendships. It has also been an incredibly rewarding experience to work with distinguished members of the faculty and grow as a student.
Aleeza Q
The York Science Scholar Award has given me the opportunity to fund my university experience in a nurturing environment that supports scientific exploration and global thinking. I have gotten one-on-one mentorship from distinguished faculty members, and been given the opportunity to take part in innovative research