The Sir James Lougheed Award of Distinction recognizes academic excellence and provides Alberta students in graduate programs with the opportunity for study outside of Alberta at institutions anywhere in the world. Each year up to fifteen students may be eligible for these awards. For the Master's level, seven awards of CAD $15,000 may be given; and for the Doctoral level, 8 awards of CAD $20,000 may be given. Students enrolled in a doctorate program who have not previously completed one-year of graduate studies are only eligible for an award of CAD $15,000. Applicants must be enrolled for both fall and winter terms at a post-secondary institution located outside of Alberta in a master's or doctoral level program. The program must be focused on academic research such as a Doctor of Philosophy. Applicants must submit two reference letters from professors or associate professors; someone who can affirm the applicant's name, award name, program of study, research (if applicable), and accomplishments. Applicants must be a Canadian citizen, Permanent Resident of Canada or Protected Person under Canada's Immigration and Refugee Protection Act; Visa students are not eligible. They must be an Alberta resident, and to be considered an Alberta resident one of the following conditions must apply: one parent, or legal guardian has maintained permanent residence in Canada for at least 12 consecutive months immediately prior to commencing post-secondary studies and be residing in Alberta; or Alberta is the last place the student has lived for 12 consecutive months immediately prior to commencing post-secondary studies; or the student's spouse or partner is an Alberta resident. Applications may be submitted through online or mail. Please visit the scholarship's website or contact the Alberta Heritage Scholarship Fund for more information.