The WHL provides the top young talent in the west with the opportunity to develop their skills on the ice at the highest possible level, without compromising their academic goals. The WHL is committed to recognizing academic excellence. Awards are presented annually to the WHL’s Scholastic Player of the Year and Team of the Year.
For each season played in the WHL, a player is awarded with a one year post-secondary scholarship, which includes:
Tuition
Compulsory fees
Required textbooks
A player is able to attend any career enhancing institution of his choice, including universities, colleges, technical institutes, trade schools, or any other institution which will help the player achieve his academic and career goals.
The WHL Scholarship is guaranteed to the player through him and his parent or guardian signing a WHL Standard Player Agreement, provided he does not sign a professional hockey contract in the NHL or with a top-level European club. Players are allowed to play one season of minor professional hockey (AHL, e.g.) before they must activate their scholarship. Also, the while using his WHL Scholarship, the player must remain a full-time student, and must not be forced to withdraw due to failure to maintain passing grades.
Over 320 WHL graduate players attend post-secondary institutions of full WHL Scholarships each year, at over 80 different institutions across North America. Since 1993, the WHL has awarded over 4,900 scholarships to graduate players representing an investment in access of $17.5 million. The WHL is the leading supplier of scholarships in Western Canada, and offers the most comprehensive scholarship in North America.
“The education program is the reason I came to the WHL. It’s reassuring knowing that if things don’t work out in your favour you have a backup plan.”
-Carey Price, Montreal Canadiens, Former Tri-City American
