Hats Off to You! and its Excellence in Science segment
Hats Off to You! and its Excellence in Science segment
2026 Edition
Stay tuned for the start of the new edition, to be launched in november 2025.
The Hats Off to You! contest and its Excellence in Science segment showcase the determination and work of women enrolled in a vocational training or technical training program, or a bachelor’s program in science or engineering that leads to a career in a traditionally male-dominated occupation.
The contest:
- recognizes women who choose a traditionally male-dominated occupation
- rewards their hard work
- promotes the academic success of women within a predominantly male group
- provides role models for women who wish to venture off the beaten track
Eligibility for the contest
You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, have resided in Québec for at least one year, and must not have failed in more than two subjects in your last school term.
You are eligible if:
- you are enrolled full-time in one of the vocational training or technical training programs selected for the contest
- you are enrolled in a school or centre under the jurisdiction of a school board, a CEGEP or a private educational institution in Québec
Certain prizes are reserved for graduates. Refer to the Hats Off to You! Prizes section in the Application Guide (PDF 2.63 Mb).
You are eligible if:
- you are enrolled full-time in a bachelor’s program in one of the science or engineering selected for the contest
- you are attending a university-level institution in Québec
Refer to the Excellence in Science in the Application Guide (PDF 1.69 Mb).
How to participate
To participate in the contest, follow these steps:
- Carefully read the details on how to submit an application in the Hats Off to You! or Excellence in Science guides :
- Prepare the following documents in PDF, JPEG or PNG format:
- the answers to the general questions on your career choice
- the answers to the additional questions related to the prizes you applied for (select the prize or prizes that best match your profile)
- a resumé (for candidates in Excellence in Science only)
- a copy of your transcript or report card
- the recommendation from your educational institution
Carefully read the instructions in the application guide.
Make sure you fully understand all the questions and the conditions for each prize.
Be clear and concise.
Provide well-structured answers using concise sentences. Be as specific as possible. Aim to write approximately 300 words per question.
Include examples in your answers.
Be sure to highlight your specific achievements and personal experiences, and describe projects that demonstrate your particular skills and commitment. You can use photos to enhance your application.
Highlight your involvement.
Whether in your studies, teamwork or volunteer work, show how you stand out.
Personalize your answers.
Tailor each answer to the objectives of the prize for which you are applying.
Proofread your answers.
Check your answers for spelling, grammar and clarity. The presentation of answers is an important selection criterion.
Respect the formatting standards.
Follow a consistent structure and use a separate page for each prize to facilitate the jury’s review of your application. Include your name and program of study in the top right corner of each page. Make sure to number your answers.
Be yourself and be positive.
Be sincere. Share your passions and motivation in order to leave a lasting impression on the jury.
Apply for multiple prizes.
To increase your odds of gaining recognition and winning a prize, apply for all the prizes you are eligible for.
Prepare your application documents.
Be sure to have your most recent transcript on hand to avoid any last-minute stress. Prepare your answers to the general questions as well as those for each additional prize you are applying for.
List of prizes
The prizes awarded to the winners are worth between $2 000 and $5 000, and amount to nearly $177 750, including one Career Development Trip Abroad prize.
Awarding of prizes
Provincial prizes will be awarded on June 8, 2026, at the Hats Off to You! and Excellence in Science official ceremony.
See also
Last update: February 14, 2026