The Lila Fahlman Scholarship

The Lila Fahlman Scholarship is an award established in memory of Dr. Lila Fahlman, a distinguished educator and founder of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW). It provides financial support to Canadian Muslim women pursuing higher education, supported through donations from the community and sponsors. Each scholarship awarded is valued at $1,500.The Lila Fahlman Scholarship is an award established in memory of Dr. Lila Fahlman, a distinguished educator and founder of the Canadian Council of Muslim Women (CCMW). It provides financial support to Canadian Muslim women pursuing higher education, supported through donations from the community and sponsors. Each scholarship awarded is valued at $1,500.

Eligible applicants are Muslim women who:

• Are Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada.

• Are enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or certificate program at a Canadian college or university for the upcoming academic year.

• Are committed to completing the full academic year.

• Have a record of civic engagement or volunteering that positively impacts society.

No, the Lila Fahlman Scholarship is exclusively for undergraduate and certificate programs. Students entering or enrolled in graduate programs are not eligible.

No, applicants must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or certificate program to qualify.

Only Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible. International students on temporary study permits are not eligible to apply.

Yes, applicants who meet the criteria for both initiatives may be considered for each. You do not need to submit separate applications if you qualify for both; the same application will be reviewed for both scholarships.

Applications typically open at the beginning of the year. Please check our website and social media for updates on exact dates.

Applicants must submit the following:

• A completed, signed scholarship application form.

• Applicants can submit either a 1-2 minute video or audio statement, or a 500-word written essay describing why they are a deserving candidate. This should include their civic engagement, volunteer activities, academic achievements, accomplishments, and goals.

• A completed financial summary using the Student Budget Calculator Worksheet.

• Two letters of reference (from an educator or someone familiar with their community service; a CCMW member reference is also welcome). Volunteering with CCMW in local communities is considered an asset.

• A copy of the most recent academic transcript.

While there is no minimum GPA requirement, academic achievement is considered in the evaluation process. Strong academic performance can enhance an applicant’s profile.

Civic engagement can include volunteering with community organizations, participating in social justice initiatives, or any activity that positively impacts society. CCMW values applicants who have a record of meaningful community service or activism, especially related to CCMW’s mission.

No, reference letters from family members are not accepted. References should be from educators, mentors, or individuals familiar with your academic or community service achievements.

The video or audio should be a common format, such as MP4 for video or MP3 for audio. Ensure the file is clear, and keep it between 1-2 minutes in length.

Application deadlines are typically announced on the CCMW website each year. We encourage applicants to check regularly for updates.

Selected recipients will be contacted directly by CCMW. Successful applicants are also publicly announced on CCMW’s platforms.

The scholarship is typically paid directly to the educational institution. Recipients will be required to provide proof of enrollment before funds are disbursed.