Supported by the Canadian General Surgery Foundation and the Canadian Association of General Surgeons

Awarded annually the UpSurge Student CSF Travel Bursary provides financial support to recipients to offset the costs associated with attending the Canadian Surgery Forum. Each annual recipient receives a complementary CSF registration and up to $3,000 to cover eligible expenses for travel and accommodation. Additionally, each recipient will receive a 1-year complimentary membership to the Canadian Association of General Surgeons.

Deadline for applications is June 12, 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

This award is open to all medical students who meet the following criteria:

  • Currently enrolled as a medical student at a Canadian medical school in any year of training
  • Self-identify as UriM: Extended AAMC definition for anyone identifying as not being historically represented in medicine/surgery including individuals who are black, Indigenous, people of colour, immigrant/refugee, from a low socioeconomic background, from a rural community, LGBTQ2S+, and more
  • Demonstrate interest in general surgery and commitment to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility
  • Express intent to attend the Canadian Surgery Forum in the year of application and participate in the UpSurge Outreach Event
  • Applicants are not required to be presenting at Canadian Surgery Forum

Note: Current members of the UpSurge Executive at any institution are ineligible from applying. 

Application Process

All applications are to be submitted online by the posted deadline.

In addition to demographic and contact information, applications must include:

  • Proof of medical school enrolment
  • Essay outlining applicant’s notion of equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in surgery
  • CV highlighting relevant experiences of scholarship, advocacy, leadership and community involvement

Review Process & Notification

All applications will be submitted to UpSurge and the CAGS Executive Committee for review. Applications will be scored using a standardized rubric evaluating the CV for academics, leadership, team work and advocacy; essay component; and the anticipated impact of attendance.

The successful applicant will be contacted by email in mid-July and travel and accommodations must be booked by early August.

Requirements of the Recipient

  • Submit receipts and expense report to CAGS within 14 days of the end of the Canadian Surgery Forum
  • Complete a brief post-conference survey and reflection activity