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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 (June 30 - July 26, 2013) 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 a volunteer work experience with a Shad Valley supporter.

It's a great deal of work, but as our over 12,000 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 Valley fulfils the Creativity aspect of CAS, and how participating at Shad Valley 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 600 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).

Brochures 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. The application deadline has passed for 2013. Watch for our 2014 application materials in September. For general enquiries, email info@shad.ca

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
• Participation in extracurricular activities

Fees

An investment in Shad Valley is an investment in your future. It costs nothing to apply. The program fee is $3,950, which is a portion of the full program cost. The fee covers all program activities, accommodations, and meals. NOTE: Transportation to the program via car, bus, train, or air is the student's responsibility. For international students the fee is $8,000 CDN. Click here for details.

Additional financial support is available to assist students in need. We also grant merit-based scholarships that are 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.

Shad Valley has a substantial budget for financial assistance, which includes:

• A large bursary fund for participants in financial need
• Travel bursaries as additional support
• Scholarships based on the overall strength of the application, and all applicants are automatically eligible to be considered for these scholarships
• Resources for participants to fundraise locally towards their fee

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 Valley alumni 

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