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Thinking Shad Valley might be right for your son or daughter? If you're considering the program, the following information might help.

First of all, Shad Valley isn't a school--or at least isn't just a school. We don't have tests or exams, but ours is a tour-de-force of learning, and we require real dedication from our participants.

Our program is unique because of its two-pronged approach: Shad Valley's first four weeks are centered on our host university campuses, giving participants a taste of the university environment and plenty of hands-on learning time. Following that month of hands-on work, some students will put their new knowledge into action for the rest of the summer or beyond, through work experience with a Shad supporter.

It's a great deal of work, but as our over 11,000 alumni will attest, it's worth it. Your son or daughter will be exposed to a new world of knowledge and experience, and make friends along the way--it truly could be the opportunity of a lifetime.  

If your child is in the IB program, the Shad Valley program is a perfect extension of the IB diploma program experience. Click here to review the details on how Shad fulfils the Creativity aspect of CAS, and how participating at Shad sets the stage for an effective Theory of Knowledge project and Extended Essay.

"I am involved in counselling students for 'life after AvH', and during an information session with admissions officers from MIT two years ago, it was mentioned that, practically as a matter of course, they expect Canadian engineering applicants to have taken part in the SHAD programme. I think this says it all." - Dr. Gisela Steinle, Stellv. Schulleiterin - Vice Principal (Academic) - Directrice adjointe, Alexander von Humboldt Schule Montreal

There are 500 places this year at Shad Valley, and because the drive to excel knows no borders, students are accepted from around the globe. The program is designed for senior high school students (completing Grade 10, 11 and 12; Québec Secondaire IV, V and CEGEP I; or equivalent international qualifications).

Applications can be obtained either through schools, on our website, or request one through our on-line form and we will mail materials to you directly. The selection process is competitive. All students are welcome to apply, and there is no limit to the number of students accepted to the program from any school, school board, or region.

What are we looking for in Shad Valley applicants?

• High overall academic achievement, with a passion for math and the sciences
• Creative minds--musicians, inventors, young businesspeople, etc.
• Those with initiative and drive, and the consistent determination to see projects through to completion
• Individuals who are strong leaders, communicators, and team members

Fees

An investment in Shad Valley is an investment in your future. It costs nothing to apply. The program fee of $3,500* (a little more than $100/day) is considerably less than the full cost of a place at the program (full cost is $6,000 per place). Generous supporters across Canada who believe in Shad Valley contribute the rest. The fee covers all program activities, accommodations, and meals. NOTE: Transportation to and from the program via car, bus, train or air is the student's responsibility. For international students the fee is $6,000 CDN. Click here for details.

* Significant financial support is available to assist students in need. We also grant scholarships, awarded based on the strength of the overall application. Students that feel Shad Valley is right for them should not hesitate to apply. Once their application is successful, we will work with them and their family to facilitate their participation.

In recent years, Shad has budgeted $300,000 per year for financial awards that include:

• A large bursary fund for participants in financial need.
• Travel bursaries as additional support.
• Scholarships based on the overall strength of the applicant.  (All applicants are automatically eligible to be considered for these scholarships.)
• Resources for participants to fundraise locally. (Ideas on generating your own funds and on reducing fees will be sent to students upon acceptance into the program.)

Ultimately, it's worth it. Shad Valley is an investment that will help your son or daughter shape his or her own future. If you should require further information please email info@shad.ca

Items of interest:

• Read a message from Shad Valley's President, Barry Bisson
• Review some of the recent successes (scholarships & awards) in our alumni group
• Insight into the Shad Valley experience, from alumni, parents and educators
• Read profiles of some of our alumni
• Find out about the scholarship opportunities for Shad alumni
• In 2005, as part of our 25th anniversary celebrations, we prepared a booklet of 25 alumni profiles. Click here to read about some of our alumni's accomplishments!

Shad Valley International is the not-for-profit organization that administers the Shad Valley program.