Thank you for agreeing to be a reference for a deserving young person who has applied to participate in a Students on Ice (SOI) Program.

Please note that the form cannot be saved and re-opened. It will take up to 30 minutes to complete.

The final day to submit a referral form is on December 9th, 2025 at the latest. We are unable to accept references past this date.

SOI offers an award-winning and globally unique educational program. Since 1999, we have taken more than 3,200 students, educators, elders, scientists, artists, musicians and leaders from 52 countries around the world on educational expeditions to the Arctic, Antarctic and many places in between.

Each year, youth apply to participate in the SOI programs. The process to participate is very competitive, and only a small number of applicants will be selected. Successful youth applicants will take part in an intensive learning journey that requires time, energy, passion and interest, before, during and after the program. Youth will learn from a variety of educators in a mix of indoor, outdoor and remote settings. Youth will also have the opportunity to share their own experiences and perspectives with others. To learn about our programs, please visit our eligibility page. 

As a referee for a potential participant, it is your task to assess the qualities, characteristics, and capabilities of the student who you are recommending in terms of their ability to benefit from, and be a positive addition to, an SOI program. Your appraisal of their character is an important part of their application. We appreciate as much detail as possible – a typical response would be approximately one paragraph in length. Your honesty and candor is appreciated; all information will be treated confidentially. No additional information, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, will be considered to ensure a fair evaluation of the references for each candidate. 

The applications are reviewed anonymously. We therefore ask that you refer to the applicant by first name only. Anonymity also means that we do not accept links, email addresses or other information that may identify the applicant.

Should you have any questions or technical difficulties, please do not hesitate to contact apply@soifoundation.org

Thank you for your time!