In 1988, U SPORTS introduced its first Academic All-Canadians, those exceptional student-athletes who achieve an academic standing of 80% or better while playing on one of their university's varsity teams.

Since 2001, over 1,500 Dalhousie student-athletes have received the distinction of U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian.

Students at Dalhousie University strive for excellence in sport, academics and in the greater community. U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian distinction is one of the highest recognitions a university varsity athlete may receive. To earn U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian distinction, a varsity student-athlete must be enrolled full-time and achieve an average of 80% or higher in the academic year. Athletes at Dalhousie University spend over 20 hours per week on school work while committing at least another 20 hours to athletics as they practice daily and compete most weekends. On top of this many student-athletes find time to volunteer with various community organizations. The athletes who earn this prestigious national honour are inspirational to the greater Dalhousie community and the Tigers congratulate them for their work ethic and determination.

2019-20 Virtual Celebration Feb. 2021
2018-19 Luncheon Recap Jan. 2020
2017-18 Luncheon Recap Jan. 2019
2016-17 Luncheon Recap Jan. 2018
2015-16 Luncheon Recap Jan. 2017

U SPORTS Top 8 Academic All-Canadians

Among these outstanding individuals, one female and one male from each U SPORTS regional association are selected annually as Top 8 Academic All-Canadians and receive the Governor General’s Academic All-Canadian Commendation. McGill leads all U SPORTS schools with a record 22 Commendations, while Dalhousie is in second place with 16, followed by the University of Alberta with 14.