Awards of $2000 per year for two years are available to students applying to a Canadian college.  Students enrolled in longer programs may reapply for funding beyond two years.

Complete and submit the application form at this website to apply for a college award. Applications are assessed by the RAYS College & Apprenticeships Awards Committee and approved by the RAYS Board of Directors.

We consider applications received at any time of the year. Preference will be given to applications received by midnight on May 8, 2026.

A mentor is assigned to each successful student.

If you have any questions, please send an e-mail to college@raysawards.com and we will try to respond within 48 hours.

To qualify for a RAYS College Award, applicants must:

• Reside within the RAYS Catchment Area.
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Be accepted by and attend a Canadian college.
• Have completed the Ontario Secondary School Diploma or will complete it in 2026.
• Be under 25 years of age.
• Provide the name of a reference person (i.e. teacher, coach or employer) and their contact information.
• Provide an official “Letter of Acceptance” from the college.
• Be approved by the RAYS College & Apprenticeship Awards Committee and the RAYS Board of Directors.

First Time College Student Applicants

You can submit your application at any time. Preference will be given to applications received by midnight on May 8, 2026.

Complete an application by clicking on the “College Student - First Application” link below. The application must be completed in one sitting and cannot be revised after it has been submitted.  You should have the following information available:

• Complete the OSAP Aid estimator to determine the amount of grant and loan assistance available to you. This information is called for in the application, or you may bring it to your interview.
• Provide a screenshot or copy of your official Letter of Acceptance from your college. This letter can be uploaded when you complete the application, or you may bring it to your interview.
• Provide the name and contact information of a reference person (i.e. teacher, coach or employer).

Returning College Students

If you have already received a RAYS college award and are returning for a subsequent year of study, click the “College Student - Returning Student” link below and complete the form.

Your application will be reviewed by the College & Apprenticeship Awards Committee.

RAYS considers financial need to be a key requirement for awards to students attending college.  We assess financial need based on the support offered by OSAP and our understanding of the costs of a student’s post-secondary education and the student’s circumstances.

Your will be contacted to arrange an interview with two committee members.

If your application for a college award is approved by the committee, your name and profile will be submitted to the RAYS Board of Directors for approval.

If you are approved by the Board of Directors, arrangements will be made to deliver a cheque to you and obtain your signature on a Letter of Agreement.

A mentor will be assigned to you.