$62,000 in Scholarships Available for Retail’s Next Leaders

The Retail Education Scholarship Program offers an excellent opportunity for students pursuing a career in the retail industry. Please review these guidelines carefully to ensure you submit a successful application.

For any questions, contact the Retail Council of Canada’s Education team at:

• hkhan@retailcouncil.org
• education@retailcouncil.org

Best of luck with your application!

Scholarship Application Process

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be enrolled full-time or part-time at a Canadian college or university for Fall 2025.
• Be pursuing a retail, business, fashion, marketing, or any retail-related post-secondary program.
• Be currently employed (part-time or full-time) in the retail industry.

Application Requirements

To apply, applicants must submit the following:

1. Online Application and Release Form

• Complete the application at 2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION – Retail Council of Canada.

2. Academic Transcript

• Submit an official transcript from the last two semesters (high school or post-secondary).

3. Proof of Enrollment

• One of the following documents:
  • Letter of acceptance (or conditional letter)
  • Proof of tuition payment
  • Letter from the Office of the Registrar

4. Employer Reference Letter (Max 200 Words)

Must include:

• Applicant’s commitment to the retail industry
• How the applicant stands out among employees
• Justification for the scholarship award
• Contact information of the employer/supervisor

5. Sustainability in Retail Essay (800-1000 Words)

Submit a typed essay in PDF or MS Word format discussing:

• The current impact of sustainability in the retail industry
• Predictions on how sustainability will shape business strategies
• Challenges faced by retailers, such as high costs or supply chain difficulties (select one)

6. “Make Retail Your Career” Presentation

Content Requirements:

• Introduce yourself
• Employer details: Where you work and why
• Retail experience: How the past year influenced your journey
• Academic details: What program you are pursuing and why
• Career goals: Why retail is your chosen industry

Video Requirements:

• 2-3 minutes in length
• Use a mix of videos, text, images, or animation
• Film in horizontal (16:9 widescreen) format
• Submit in .pptx, .mp4, .mov, or .avi formats
• No background noise; clear speech with enthusiasm

Suggested Tools:

• PowerPoint, iMovie, Windows Media Player, Animoto, Kizoa

7. Proof of Enrollment (Duplicate Entry for Emphasis)

Same as requirement #3, ensure you submit one of the following:

• Letter of acceptance (or conditional letter)
• Proof of tuition payment
• Letter from the Office of the Registrar

Application Deadline

March 28, 2025 – Applications must be received on or before this date. Late applications will not be considered.

How to Apply

1. Create an account on the Retail Council of Canada’s Application website.
2. Click “Apply” to start your online application.
3. Complete the application form.
4. Upload documents (application, presentation, reference letter, proof of enrollment, and transcripts).
5. Ensure transcripts are received before the deadline.
6. Confirm submission via the application website.

Parent/Legal Guardian Consent (For Applicants Under 18)

Legal guardians must provide digital consent for applicants under 18.

Steps to Create a Guardian Account:

1. Child creates an account on the Retail Council of Canada’s Application website.
2. Inside the account, click “Add Team Member”.
3. Enter guardian’s name and email. A system-generated email will be sent for access.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How are applications evaluated?

• Reviewed by a panel of retail industry experts.
• Judges will consider applicant’s commitment to retail and impact potential.

When will applicants be notified?

• Decisions will be made around May 2025.

What is the selection process?

• Evaluation is based on criteria outlined in “Application Requirements”.
• Judges assess interest in retail careers and innovation potential.

Tips for a Successful Application

General Tips:

1. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
2. Start early to avoid last-minute issues.
3. Carefully craft your essay and presentation.
4. Gather reference letters and transcripts in advance.
5. Follow award criteria closely for higher chances of selection.
6. Think creatively in your presentation approach.

Preparation Steps:

1. Give yourself time – Start at least two weeks in advance.
2. Understand the topic – Read instructions carefully.
3. Do research – Use news, websites, textbooks for insights.
4. Outline first – Organize key points before writing.

Writing the Essay/Presentation:

1. Believe in your response – Back your stance with research.
2. Know your audience – Keep responses relevant.
3. Be original – Share personal insights and experiences.
4. Start strong – Grab attention in the first few lines.
5. Ensure logical flow – Link ideas cohesively.
6. Avoid plagiarism – Use your own words and cite sources.
7. Conclude effectively – Reinforce main points and takeaways.

Final Review:

1. Seek feedback – Show your work to teachers, mentors, or peers.
2. Revise thoroughly – Check for clarity, grammar, and formatting errors.

For more details, visit 2025 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION – Retail Council of Canada.

Good luck with your application!