Questions?
How many levels are there in the contest?
There are two levels : regional and provincial.
What is the application deadline for the contest?
You must ask the designated contest official in your school or learning centre. The deadline for the Ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport (MELS) to receive applications from schools and learning centres is March 15, 2013.
Are people who obtained their diploma in June 2012 eligible for the 2012-2013 contest?
No, because you must have attended an educational institution during the 2012-2013 school year. On the other hand, a student is considered eligible for the 2012-2013 contest if she enrolled in an education program after the 2011-2012 contest closed (e.g.: in March 2012) and received a diploma the following summer.
Do candidates have to win a regional prize in order to be eligible at the provincial level?
Yes, most of the time. However, for some of the prizes(QESBA), this is not the case. (See the descriptions of the prizes on the Web site for the 2012-2013 contest.)
Can a candidate win prizes at both the regional and provincial levels?
Yes. At the regional level, prizes are worth $500 to $5000, regardless of the traditionally male-dominated program. At the provincial level, prizes range from $2000 to $5000.
Can a candidate apply for more than one provincial prize?
Yes, as long as she answers the questions specific to each prize.
Do candidates have to answer the general contest questions?
Yes, a text answering these questions is required for the regional level and opens the door to the provincial level.
Can candidates have help writing this text?
Yes, candidates are even advised to have someone read their text. People often underestimate themselves. It is important to speak up about your hard work if you want to be rewarded!
Who selects the winners?
Winners are selected by committees consisting of contest sponsors and partners from the education, employment and business sectors, under the direction of MELS.
When will the prizes be awarded?
The regional prizes will be awarded at official ceremonies to be held across Québec in April and May 2013. The provincial prizes will be awarded at the Hats Off to You! and Excellence in Science gala on June 10, 2013.
How to answer the questions specific to the following prizes:
FTQ Equity Prize : Candidates must show that, after careful thought, they have decided to change direction and go into a traditionally male-dominated field that offers better working conditions and more stability.
CSQ Perseverance Prize : Perseverance may be shown in various ways, for example, by taking upgrading courses, overcoming obstacles or making lifestyle choices in order to pursue your studies.
Ministère de l’Éducation, du Loisir et du Sport Prize : Candidates must describe their role as spokespersons and their personal or professional commitment to promoting traditionally male-dominated occupations.
