Tony Scherman Graduate Scholarship

The Tony Scherman Graduate Scholarship is a merit-based award established to support graduate students pursuing advanced studies in the fields of fine arts and design at the Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCAD U). Named after Tony Scherman, a distinguished Canadian painter known for his contributions to contemporary art, the scholarship seeks to recognize academic excellence, artistic achievement, and potential for future contributions to the arts community. The scholarship is intended to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in graduate-level programs, helping to alleviate some of the costs associated with advanced education in art and design disciplines. Recipients are selected based on a combination of academic records, portfolio submissions, and demonstrated commitment to their artistic practice. The award amount varies each year depending on available funding and the number of eligible applicants. The scholarship supports the university's mission to foster creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among graduate students, enabling them to focus more fully on their studies and creative projects. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific eligibility criteria and application procedures provided by OCAD U’s Graduate Studies office, as these may be updated periodically. This scholarship is one of several funding opportunities available to graduate students at OCAD U, complementing other merit-based and need-based awards offered by the institution.

The Tony Scherman Graduate Scholarship is designed to assist graduate students enrolled at OCAD U who demonstrate outstanding merit in their academic and artistic endeavors. The scholarship honors Tony Scherman’s legacy by encouraging students to pursue innovative and impactful work in the visual arts. Eligible applicants typically include those enrolled in Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or other graduate programs related to fine arts and design. Selection criteria focus on academic excellence, quality and originality of artistic work, and the potential for professional development within the arts sector. The scholarship amount is determined annually and may vary depending on the university’s funding availability and the number of qualified applicants. Recipients receive financial support that can be applied toward tuition fees, living costs, or expenses related to their creative projects, such as materials and equipment. The application process usually requires submission of academic transcripts, a portfolio of recent work, letters of recommendation, and a statement of intent outlining the applicant’s artistic goals and how the scholarship would support their studies. The award aims to reduce financial barriers and enable recipients to dedicate more time and resources to their graduate studies and creative practice. While the scholarship is merit-based, applicants are encouraged to maintain strong academic performance and active engagement in their discipline. The Tony Scherman Graduate Scholarship is part of OCAD U’s broader commitment to fostering artistic talent and supporting graduate students in achieving their educational and professional objectives.