Canadian Senate Page Program - Selection Process

Selection Process

A written examination and an interview will determine the candidates’ competencies for the position of Page (see “Rated Requirements” below). More details will be provided when the candidates are convened for the selection process.

Many factors are taken into consideration when making the final selection in establishing a pool of qualified candidates which is used to appoint candidates to the position of Senate Page. These factors include the candidate’s performance during the interview/letters of recommendation (including involvement in extracurricular and/or volunteering activities and achievements); provincial representation; linguistic duality; diversity; male/female ratio; and written test results. As well, the Senate may give priority, once the selection process is completed, to a qualified candidate who has demonstrated a personal need for financial assistance to further his or her education.

Basic requirements:
To be eligible for the Page Program, candidates must:

a) Be full-time students pursuing their first undergraduate degree in one of the four National Capital Region universities ( Carleton University, Saint-Paul University, University of Ottawa and Université du Québec en Outaouais);

b) Not have previous experience as a Page on Parliament Hill (such as experience in the Canadian House of Commons Page Program);

c) Be able to communicate orally, at the advanced level, in both official languages (English and French);

d) Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.

Rated requirements:
An examination is designed to assess:

• Knowledge of the organization of the Senate and Canadian Parliamentary Procedures; knowledge of the Standing Operating Procedures for a Senate Page; and knowledge of current events

An interview will assess:

• The ability to communicate effectively and orally in the official language of his or her choice; and effective interpersonal relationships, judgment, initiative, and reliability