Recognizing the important role immigration plays in Canada’s social, cultural and economic development, RBC is launching a new scholarship program specifically for young people who have been through the immigration experience.

The new scholarships are designed to encourage students to share their views on how immigration has shaped Canada and to provide advice to others going through a similar experience.

“Many new Canadian families place a top priority on education,” says Mark Whitmell, director, cultural markets. “We hope the RBC Royal Bank Scholarship for New Canadians will help some of our best and brightest students realize their fullest potential. Given the challenges of beginning a life in a new country, their efforts are worthy of recognition.”

Seven scholarships, each worth $2,000, will be awarded to individuals who have graduated high school or CEGEP and are planning to pursue full-time studies at an accredited Canadian college or university this fall. The winners will also be invited to an all-expenses paid awards dinner in Toronto. The deadline for applications is July 5.

To be eligible for the scholarships, applicants must have been born outside of Canada, and be either permanent residents or citizens of Canada. Applicants must have also achieved at least a 70% average in their previous year of study. Scholarships will be awarded based on academic achievement and three, 250-word essay questions on how immigration has helped to shape the country we live in today.

RBC is also launching a new scholarship for undergraduate students that will reward those who can create the most practical and inspirational ideas for innovation and improvement in the field of business, science or visual arts.

A total of nine scholarships are being offered. The top three “gold” award winners will each receive $5,000 and will be invited to choose from among several one-of-a-kind educational experiences designed to give students a first hand look at life in the field of business, science, or visual arts. A typical experience will include hands-on activities and provide students with exclusive one-on-one time with leading professionals in their chosen field. The experiences can last between one and three days and may take place in one of several different locations across Canada, all travel expenses included.

Three “silver” and three “bronze” awards will also be offered, each worth $3,000 and $2,000 respectively. The final date for applications is July 27.

To be eligible for the RBC Royal Bank Scholarship for Undergraduates, applicants must be either permanent residents or citizens of Canada, enrolled in an accredited college or university, and at least entering their second year. Applicants must have also achieved at least a 70% average in their previous year of study. Applicants will be asked to identify and articulate concrete ideas for innovation in business, science, or visual arts. This includes presenting a plan to implement their idea, and describing how it will have an impact in their field.

For more information about RBC Royal Bank scholarships, as well application forms, please visit www.rbcroyalbank.com/scholarships.