Application Guidelines

Nova Scotia Talent Trust Scholarship Application Guidelines

Before you begin the online application process, make sure you have all support materials ready: PDF files, video/sound link, and other support materials. If you need support with your application, we are here to help! Send any questions to scholarship@nstalenttrust.ns.ca or book an appointment.

Before starting your application, ensure you have the following: 

• Verification of acceptance into your program of study, if available 
• Online link to the course outline or program description, as provided by the school, university, or institution (or resume/website of your instructor or mentor)
• Artistic resume
• Artist Statement in written or video format
• Budget, as outlined in the online application form
• Support material for your discipline
• Index of your support material

All documents should be provided in PDF format whenever possible.

Support Material should be merged into one video or one PDF document.

General Application Guidelines

The Nova Scotia Talent Trust (NSTT) is an open and encouraging organization that invites applications from all developing, pre-professional Nova Scotia artists. We support the artistic endeavors of all Nova Scotians, from all areas of the province and all walks of life. Every application we receive is treated with respect and careful consideration.

Inclusion and Equality

NSTT embraces the principles of inclusion and equality. We recognize some emerging artists may need support with the online application system or file conversion. We are here to help – please reach out and we will help you with your application.

Deadlines

• Spring/Summer Applications : Must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Atlantic Standard Time (AST) on March 1
• Fall/Winter Applications : Must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. Atlantic Daylight Savings Time (ADT) on May 1.

Important Notes:

• If you are applying from outside Nova Scotia in a different time zone, ensure your application is submitted on time. Applications receive a time stamp at the moment they are submitted.
• Applicants may submit applications for both deadlines, but a separate online application is required for each period. You can only apply to the Fall/Winter deadline after the Spring/Summer deadline has closed.

Application Tips

• Apply Early : Avoid waiting until the last minute. The application portal closes at 5:00 p.m. AST on March 1 and 5:00 p.m. ADT on May 1 .
• Prepare Carefully : Supporting materials—such as recordings, reproductions, or written work—should be well-organized, clearly presented, and accessible. 
• Focus on Quality : Use the highest quality resolution available for recordings or visual materials and seek assistance when possible.
• Check Language and Grammar : Ensure all written material is clear and free from grammatical errors.
• Provide Program Details : If you are studying at a recognized institution, include a course outline or program description as a PDF or direct web link.
• Translated Materials : Applicants are responsible for providing translated copies of any support materials not in English or French.
• Review the Guidelines for Support Material specific to your discipline. Follow all instructions outlined in the guidelines.
• Enhance Videos for Repeat Applications : If applying for both deadlines, add a new introduction and one new piece of content to your video for the May 1 deadline. If this is not possible, include a written or video statement explaining why.
• Seek Guidance : Ask your teacher or mentor for feedback on your application.
• Contact Us : For questions or concerns, email us at scholarship@nstalenttrust.ca

Private Teacher Requirements

If you plan to study with a private teacher, include the following information in PDF format with your application: 

• Formal course outline, including proposed repertoire/curricular goals.
• Number of lessons, as well as the duration and cost of each lesson.
• Statement of interest from your teacher explaining why this course of study would be beneficial.
• Anticipated curricular outcome of your successful completion of the study program.
• Current resume from your teacher.

Mentorship Requirements

If you are furthering your arts education through a mentorship with an established artist, include the following in your application (PDF format):

• Name and resume or biography of your mentor.
• Detailed project plan.
• Letter of support from your mentor.
• Balanced budget and proposal indicating how funds will be used (e.g., mentor honorarium, living expenses, equipment/supplies).

Note: Ensure your teacher/mentor has enough time to prepare these documents.

Selection Process

• Scholarship applications are reviewed twice per year.
• You are competing with other well-qualified candidates from various disciplines.
• NSTT is committed to fairness and transparency, avoiding conflicts of interest during evaluations.
• The Scholarship Selection Committee includes 12–14 established artists active in Nova Scotia’s arts community. Additional guest professionals may join for specific disciplines.

Assessment Criteria

The Scholarship Selection Committee evaluates applications based on the following:

• Demonstrated skill, passion, potential 40%
• Exceptional talent, ambition 20%
• Fit of chosen study for artistic career goals, ability to complete 15%
• Overall strength of the application (artist statement, resume, budget) 25%

Additional Notes

• Applicants are notified of results approximately 6 weeks after the deadline via email.
• All decisions of the Scholarship Selection Committee are final.
• Submissions and support materials become the property of NSTT.

By submitting an application, you agree to these terms.

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