The Ottawa School of Art is proud to support emerging artists through a wide range of scholarships for Fine Arts Diploma students. These awards recognize creativity, dedication, and artistic growth — and thanks to the generosity of donors, they make it possible for students to focus on what truly matters: creating art.

If you’re enrolled in OSA’s Fine Arts Diploma or Portfolio Certificate Program, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to apply for Fall 2025 scholarships — including deadlines, requirements, and a few tips from past recipients.

Why Apply for an OSA Scholarship?

Scholarships at OSA are more than financial awards — they’re an acknowledgment of your talent and effort. They:

• Provide recognition for your artwork and dedication to your practice.

• Help offset the cost of tuition through direct tuition credits.

• Strengthen your portfolio and confidence as a developing artist.

• Connect you to a legacy of generosity from artists and families who believe in supporting creative growth.

As one recipient shared:

How to Apply for Fall 2025 OSA Scholarships

Applying for scholarships can feel intimidating, but at OSA it’s designed to be an opportunity — a chance to reflect on your artistic journey and showcase your best work. Here’s how to navigate the process with confidence.

Step 1: Get the Application Forms

Start by reviewing the application forms for this year. The forms were shared by email from Adrian Gor, but you can also:

• Download the application form here.

• Pick up printed copies from Adrian’s mailbox (second floor, beside the computer room) starting Tuesday, Oct 21.

• Attend one of the Scholarship Information Sessions to collect forms and ask questions:

  • Thursday, Oct 23 at 12:30 PM (Room 305, lunchroom)

  • Monday, Oct 27 at 12:15 PM (Room 305, lunchroom)

    
    

Each scholarship has its own application form, so be sure to select the ones that apply to your year and discipline.

Step 2: Choose and Prepare Your Artwork

You’ll need to submit five pieces of artwork for consideration. Choose pieces that tell a story about your artistic growth.

Think about:

• Cohesion – Do your works speak to each other visually or conceptually?

• Progress – Can jurors see how your skills or ideas have developed?

• Presentation – Is your work clean, labeled, and easy to view?

Here’s what to include:

• A short (2–3 sentence) artist statement explaining your approach or theme.

• A typed image list with piece numbers, titles, dates, materials, and dimensions.

• Your name clearly labeled on each artwork.

💡 Pro tip: Ask two classmates or instructors for feedback before finalizing your five selections. A fresh set of eyes can help you see which pieces best represent your voice.

Step 3: Install Your Artwork

On Monday, Nov 10 from 12:00–1:00 PM, you’ll install your artwork in your assigned room:

• 1st-year students: Room 405 and Computer Lab

• 2nd-year students: Room 303

• 3rd-year students: Room 305

Bring everything you need to hang or display your pieces — tape, pins, easels, or stands. Make sure your space looks intentional and professional.

If you prefer, you can drop off your work at the Director’s Office starting Wednesday, Nov 5.

Label your pieces clearly (especially if you’re submitting more than one package).

All work must be removed by 4:30 PM on Nov 10, so plan ahead for pickup.

📌 Application Deadline: Monday, Nov 10, 2025 at 12:00 PM sharp.

Fall 2025 Scholarships at a Glance

1st-Year Students

• Lillian Evenchick Memorial Sculpture Scholarship – $1,400

• Sheila Durno Memorial Scholarship – $600 (2 awards)

All Diploma Students

• Lee Matasi Memorial Scholarship – $1,500

• Lillian Rapport Memorial Scholarship – $1,000 (2 awards)

• Ted Marshall Memorial Scholarship – $1,000 (2 awards)

• Ottawa Mixed Media Artist Scholarship – $200

• Betty Davidson Scholarship – $440 (open to part-time or full-time Diploma students, all disciplines)

  
  

All scholarships are awarded as tuition credits applied directly to student accounts.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early – Don’t wait until the last week to curate your five pieces. Give yourself time to revise and present with care.

• Tell a story – Choose works that feel like a conversation about your development as an artist.

• Check every form – Each scholarship has its own application. Read carefully and ensure nothing is missing.

• Present intentionally – How your work looks on the wall or table is part of your artistic voice.

• Use your resources – Attend info sessions, ask instructors for guidance, and proofread your artist statement.

The Meaning Behind OSA Scholarships

Every scholarship represents a gift from someone who believes in art and in you. Many are established in memory of OSA alumni and local artists whose creative spirit continues through these awards. When you apply, you’re participating in that ongoing story — one of mentorship, generosity, and artistic growth in Ottawa.

Apply Now

The deadline to apply for Fall 2025 OSA Scholarships is Monday, November 10 at 12:00 PM.

Prepare your best work, fill out your forms carefully, and take this opportunity to showcase how far you’ve come as an artist.