Scholarships are private funds awarded to students who meet specific criteria set by the donor(s). The criteria can be as specialized as the donor(s) may choose and, consequently, are competitive. Frequently used criteria include: academic performance, community service, ancestry, career/profession, race, religion, gender, and specialized skills or talents.

Research/Network places to look for scholarships

At School

• Counseling Office/Career Center

• Bulletin boards

• Daily school bulletins or public announcements

• Special scholarship bulletins

• Teachers and counselors

• School library and internet

• Fellow students

• Scholarship handbooks or guides

Off Campus

• Employer/parents' employer

• Employment personnel office

• Public Library

• Unions

• Church

• Clubs and Organizations

• Community-based groups

• Keep scrolling down for a comprehensive list of scholarships

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Scholarship Presentation

Keep a Portfolio Folder of Scholarship Documents

Personal Statement

Personal Statements express strong, clear, positive information on your background (past), current activities and challenges (present), and your enthusiasm regarding your goals and aspirations (future)

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of Recommendation highlighting your strengths, abilities, goals, personality, and an indication of your financial need and potential for success. If a letter is addressed, "To whom it may concern," and you are given a copy, it may be used for more than one application. Ideal recommendations are from teachers, employers, and/or community members.

Tips regarding letters of recommendation

• Ask only those who will give you a positive recommendation (do not ask to see it).

• Request the letter three or four weeks in advance so the writer is not rushed.

• Provide the writer with the name, address, due date, and any particulars to be included in the letter. If online, be sure the writer has the appropriate link or e-mail address where the recommendation should be sent. (A helpful gesture is to provide a list of particulars, e.g., achievements, awards, community service, talents, challenges, to be mentioned by the writer.)

• Send a "thank you" letter to the writer sharing the outcome of your scholarship application.

Transcripts

Cumulative Student Record (CSR) must be sealed in an envelope by the school to remain official. (Keep your own photocopies of your transcript, in the event unofficial transcripts are acceptable.) Ask your counselor or school registrar for official transcripts. 

Personal Budget

A detailed list of expenses and any income to be received. Costs should include tuition, books, transportation, housing, meals, medical, and personal expenses. Student- budget forms are usually available from the financial aid office or college catalog.

Miscellaneous

Sometimes a photo is requested. Samples of work may also be requested for competitive awards. Your high school portfolio may also be helpful.

Copies of Applications

Be certain to keep copies of all applications to colleges and scholarships so that information can be quickly revised. If you are using a computer, save essay information on a disk.

Be Persistent!

California CHAFEE

• Be persistent! It pays!!! Meet deadlines and follow through as appropriate. Take advantage of every opportunity to network, get to know yourself better, and benefit from the results. Scholarships can be worth your time and effort, but - YOU MUST APPLY - APPLY FOR ALL SCHOLARSHIPS FOR WHICH YOU MAY QUALIFY. It is FREE MONEY which can help you through school. The more scholarships you apply for, the more opportunities for FREE MONEY.

• Note: Be extremely wary of individuals or companies who offer to locate or "guarantee" scholarships or financial aid assistance for a fee (e.g., www.fafsa.com). Do not pay money to apply for scholarships. To learn more about "scholarship scams" visit: www.finaid.org/scholarships/scams.phtml

Cal-SOAP San Diego Scholarship List

Scholarship Websites:

• UNCF (United Negro College Fund)                               www.uncf.org  

• American Indian Graduate Center Scholars                      www.aigcs.org

• Asian & Pacific Islander American Scholarship Fund      www.apiasf.org

• Hispanic Scholarship Fund                                             www.hsf.net

• www.fastweb.com

• www.scholarships.com

• https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/pay-for-college   

• https://www.scholarsnapp.org/

• https://myscholly.com/

• https://scholarshipowl.com/

• https://scholarships360.org/

• https://www.cashcourse.org/

• http://www.cksf.org/

• https://tmcf.org/our-scholarships

• https://www.chegg.com/scholarships

• https://www.raise.me

• https://yescollege.com/guides/weird-scholarships

• https://www.supercollege.com

• https://www.collegenet.com/mach25/app

• https://www.maldef.org/leadership/scholarships/ (for undocumented student)

San Diego Foundation Scholarship (Group of Scholarships with Common Application)

Application Open: Check online in late Fall                                      Award Range:  Varies

Application Deadline: TBA                                                             

Eligibility: For high school seniors. Minimum GPA of 2.0

Website for Application: https://www.sdfoundation.org/students/common-scholarship-app/

BECA Foundation General Scholarship Fund                                      Award Range: $500 - $1,000

Application Deadline:  TBD, Application period usually December 1- March 30 of every year

US Citizenship Requirement:  Not a Requirement

Eligibility Criteria: Applicant must be a San Diego County high school graduate who is entering college in the Fall immediately following graduation. Focus on Latino students.

Website for Application Download: http://www.becafoundation.org/ 

San Diego County Citizens’ Scholarship Foundation

Application Available: January every year

Application Deadline:   March every year                                        Award Range: $10,000        

US Citizenship Requirement:  Not a requirement

Eligibility Criteria: Senior in high school in San Diego County, be a resident of San Diego County for the last year, plan to attend an accredited college in San Diego County, plan to attend college full-time in Fall and Spring, have financial need. 

Website for application: http://sdccsf.org/applicants/

RMHC/HACER Scholarship

Application Deadline:  February 4                  Award Range: $2,000 (San Diego County)/$100,000 (National)     Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: High school seniors who have at least one parent of Hispanic/Latino origin, strong academic performance, personal drive to give back to the community

Website for application: https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/community/hacer.html. To access online application:  https://aim.applyists.net/RMHC

Don Diego Scholarship Foundation           

Application Deadline:  March 21                                                   Award Range: $ 1,000- $ 5,000

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Varies depending on each scholarship category. The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation provides scholarships to deserving San Diego youth who are associated with activities at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, including the San Diego County Fair, and are pursuing their educational interests. The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation also provides grants for agricultural education.

Website for application: http://dondiegoscholarship.org/scholarships/

San Diego Chinese Women’s Association Scholarship

Application Deadline:  TBD. Applications typically open in January

Awards: $1,000 if attending community college/vocational school. $1,500 if attending a 4yr. university.

Citizenship Requirements: N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Must be a high school senior.  Both male and female are eligible. Must be at least one quarter Chinese.  Must be attending a San Diego County School. Have plans for higher education. GPA minimum applies.

Website for Application: http://www.sdcwa.net/scholarship.html     

San Diego Education Fund Future Educators Scholarship Program

Application Deadline:   Typically late February each year

Awards: $1,000/year if attending community college. $2,000/year if attending local college/university

Citizenship Requirements: Must be a U.S. Citizen            

Eligibility Criteria: Must be a High School Senior in a San Diego Unified high school who commits to teach in the San Diego Unified School District for at least three years.

Website for application: http://www.sdef.org/programs/futureeducatorscholars.html

San Diego County Salute to Education (San Diego County Ford Dealers)

Application Deadline:  Typically each February                  Award Range: $1,000 (one scholarship recipient will receive new Ford vehicle as well)

Citizenship Requirement:  U.S. Citizen

Eligibility Criteria: Students must be residents of San Diego County and graduating seniors from an accredited San Diego County high school.

Website for application:  www.salutetoeducation.com    

AMN/HCC Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Yearly, by the end of June             Award Range: $2,000

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: High school seniors and college students enrolled in San Diego County schools who plan to enter the field of health care.

Website for application: https://hccsd.wildapricot.org/AMN/HCC-Scholarship

Ron Brown Scholarship                                                       Award Range: $10,000/ Year

Application Deadline: January 9 each year

Citizenship Requirement: Must be a U.S. Citizen                         

Eligibility: African American high school senior. Applicants must excel academically, exhibit exceptional leadership potential, participate in community service activities and demonstrate financial need.  

Website for Application Download: https://www.ronbrown.org/

Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest

Application Open: Open from May 31 2019 to March 2 2020, Yearly

Application Deadline: March 2                                            Award Range: $10,000

Citizenship Requirement: Must be U.S. Citizen

Eligibility: For high school seniors or current college students. Must be at least 14 years old. Submit original photo, artwork or computer graphics for the front of a greeting card.

Website for Application: http://www.gallerycollection.com/greeting-cards-scholarship.htm

American Indian College Fund (Group of Scholarships)

Application Deadline: January to May 31, Yearly   Award Range:           $1,000-$10,000

Citizenship Requirement: Must be a U.S. Citizen

Eligibility: Registered as a member of a federal or state recognized tribe, or a descendant of at least one grandparent or parent who is an enrolled tribal member. Minimum GPA requirement varies by each scholarship. 

Website for Application: http://www.collegefund.org/students_and_alumni/content/scholarships

Que Llueva Café Scholarship

Application Deadline: Transition year: date TBD                       Award Range: $500

Citizenship Requirement: Must be an undocumented student of Chicano/Latino descent.

Eligibility: For high school seniors.

Website for Application: http://www.ca-core.org/que_llueva_cafe_scholarship_program

U.S Bank Internet Scholarship

Application Deadline:  Every October Award Range: $20,000 ( additional $10,000 and $5,000 awards)           

Citizenship Requirement: U.S or permanent resident

Eligibility Criteria: A high school senior planning to enroll or a current college freshman, sophomore or junior at an eligible four-year college or university participating in the U.S. Bank No Fee Education Loan Program; Enrolled by September in a full-time course of study at an accredited school

Website for Application: https://www.usbank.com/student-lending/scholarship.html

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The Jackie Robinson Scholarship

Application Open:    Yearly in November

Application Deadline:  Yearly February 1                               Award Range:   Varies

Citizenship Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen

Eligibility Requirements: To underserved high school students (seniors) showing leadership potential and dedication to community service.  Must also demonstrate financial need to attend an accredited 4-year college or university of their choice. Minimum SAT 1000 or ACT 21.

Website for Application: http://www.jackierobinson.org/apply/

Enrique S. Camarena Educational Foundation – Drug Abuse Education Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Yearly in April                                 Award Range: $1,000          

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Must be a high school senior.

Website for application: http://camarenafoundation.org/scholarships

Athena San Diego Pinnacle Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Yearly in March                               Award Range: $2,500                      

Citizenship Requirement:  Must have a Social Security Number

Eligibility Criteria: Must be a female graduating high school student entering a four-year accredited college majoring in sciences, math, computer science, or engineering.

Website for application: https://atsd.memberclicks.net/pinnacle-scholarships

Asian Pacific Fund Scholarship Program

Application Deadline:   Yearly in February                            Award Range: $1,000 - $20,000      

Citizenship Requirement:  Varies depending on scholarship

Eligibility Criteria: Incoming college students. Ethnic background eligibility varies by scholarship. Must plan to be enrolled full time in the fall. Minimum GPA 3.0.

Website for application: http://asianpacificfund.org/what-we-do/scholarships/apply-for-scholarship/

Azazie Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Yearly in May                                 Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: High school seniors and college freshman, sophomores, juniors or seniors in the U.S. and Canada. Must be enrolled or accepted and seeking a degree at a U.S. or Canadian college or university. 

Website for application: https://www.azazie.com/scholarship

ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship

Application Open: Yearly in February

Application Deadline: April 20 annually                            Award Range: $1,000-$6,000

Citizenship Requirement: No requirement

Eligibility Criteria: You may be a senior in high school, an undergraduate student, graduate or post graduate student planning/pursuing a degree with focus on cybersecurity or information assurance to be eligible. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3

Website for application: https://iamcybersafe.org/scholarships/womens-scholarships/  

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Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Due May/June , Yearly                     Award Range: $250-$3,000

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Students currently being treated for epilepsy that are currently enrolled or will be enrolled in a college, university, or trade school in Fall. Letter from doctor verifying the treatment for epilepsy/seizure disorder.  All applicants must be residents of San Diego or Imperial counties, but may be attending school outside the area.

Website for application: http://epilepsysandiego.org.s163008.gridserver.com/college-scholarships/

VFW Voice of Democracy Scholarship

Application Deadline:   October 31 annually                       Award Range: $1,000-$30,000

Citizenship Requirement:  U.S. Citizenship not required, but must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (the application for which has not been denied.)

Eligibility Criteria: The Voice of Democracy is a scholarship program offered through the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW.) Each year, nearly 40,000 high school students compete at the local, state, and national levels for more than $2 million in scholarships and incentives. Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $16,000 and the national first-place winner receives $30,000.  Students in grades 9 to 12 can compete by writing and recording an audio essay based on this year's theme, " What Makes America Great.” The Voice of Democracy Program is open to students in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States and its territories.

Website for application: https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/youth-scholarships

Shout it Out Scholarship

Application Deadline:   September 30, Yearly                     Award Range: $1,500

Citizenship Requirement:  U.S. Citizenship not required but must be legal U.S. residents.

Eligibility Criteria: Have something on your mind? Let it out, or better yet SHOUT it out. Give your thoughts a voice and earn free college money at the same time. Our Shout It Out Scholarship committee wants to know what you have to say. Whether it's a message for the world or just a quick "hi mom," this is your opportunity to speak up and win money for college. We're listening! Let your keyboard be your megaphone, and shout out your message. This unique scholarship gives you the platform to speak up - and cash in. The "loudest" applicant will receive the $1,500 Shout It Out Scholarship reward. Submit an online written response to the question: "If you could say one thing to the entire world at once, what would it be and why?"

Applicants must be 13 years of age or older at the time of application and be currently enrolled or enroll no later than the fall of 20205 in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher education.

Website for application: https://www.unigo.com/scholarships/our-scholarships/shout-it-out-scholarship

Coffee for Less "Hit the Books" Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Two Cycles, Yearly (Jan and Aug)      Award Range: $500

Citizenship Requirement:  Not a requirement

Eligibility Criteria: Candidates submit an essay of no more than 500 words on the subjects of the importance of education in their lives and how the scholarship money will assist the students’ goals. Bonus points will be awarded to those students who find a creative way to include their passion for coffee within their essay without losing sight of the primary topic.

Eligible students will be aged 18-25 and enrolled in an accredited college or university

Website for application: https://www.coffeeforless.com/scholarship

AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship

Application Deadline:   March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31

Award Range: $2,500-$10,000

Citizenship Requirement:  Must be a legal resident.

Eligibility Criteria: The AfterCollege-AACN Scholarship Fund supports students who are seeking a baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree in nursing. Special consideration will be given to students in a graduate program with the goal of becoming a nurse educator; students completing an RN-to-BSN or RN-to-MSN program; and those enrolled in an accelerated program. Please note that all applicants must already be enrolled (not just accepted) at an AACN member institution.

Website for application: https://www.aftercollege.com/content/article/aftercollege-aacn-scholarship/

Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Oct 31 annually                           Award Range: $2,000

Citizenship Requirement:  Must be a legal resident.

Eligibility Criteria:  Our Zombie Apocalypse Scholarship committee wants to know your plan to avoid the zombies, where you’d hide, and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive. We're giving one successful survivor $2,000 towards his or her college education. Do you think you have what it takes to make the cut? Applicants must be thirteen (13) years of age or older at the time of application, and be currently enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher education. Submit an online written response to the question: "Imagine that your high school or college has been overrun with zombies. Your math professor, the cafeteria ladies, and even your best friend have all joined the walking dead. Flesh out a plan to avoid the zombies, including where you’d hide and the top-five things you’d bring to stay alive."

Applicants must be thirteen years of age or older at the time of application

Be currently enrolled or enroll no later than the fall of 2025 in an accredited post-secondary institution of higher education.

Website for application: https://www.unigo.com/scholarships/our-scholarships/zombie-apocalypse-scholarship

The Diabetes Council Scholarship

Application Deadline:   Varies                                       Award Range: varies depending on scholarship

Citizenship Requirement:  Varies depending on scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:  Varies depending on scholarship. Recipients are usually managing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes and other criteria varies by scholarship. 

Website for application: https://www.thediabetescouncil.com/diabetes-scholarships-everything-you-need-to-know/

Dream Award Scholarship

Application Deadline:  October 15, annually; renewable       Award Range: $5,000-$15,000

Citizenship Requirement:  US Citizen, Permanent Resident or DACA

Eligibility Criteria:  Must be at least 17; have received a high school diploma or the equivalent from a U.S. school by September; have completed or expect to successfully complete a minimum of one full year of postsecondary education by June; plan to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at the sophomore year level or higher at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school in the United States for the entire academic year; be studying to obtain an associate’s or first bachelor’s degree; have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent); demonstrate financial need.

Website for application: https://scholarshipamerica.org/dreamaward/

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Coca-Cola Scholarship

Application Deadline:  October 31 annually                      Award Range: $1,000-$20,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, U.S. Permanent Residents, Refugees, Asylees, Cuban-Haitian Entrants, or Humanitarian Parolees. Cannot be temporary residents, DACA students or International students.

Eligibility Criteria:  Must be a current high school senior planning to pursue a degree at an accredited U.S. postsecondary institution. Achievement-based. Scholarships available for four-year and two-year programs. Applicants may not be children or grandchildren of employees or high school graduates

Website for application: http://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org/apply/ and http://www.ptk.org/scholarships.aspx

Tall Club Scholarship

Application Deadline:  September 1-Febraury 1 annually      Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: Not a requirement

Eligibility Criteria:  Must be under 21, entering college in the upcoming fall, must be at least 5'10" (women) or 6'2" (men) and be sponsored by a local Tall Club member.  

Website for application:  http://www.tallclubfoundation.org/scholarship-program.html

Duck Brand Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest

Application Deadline:  Annually in April                         Award Range: Up to $10,000

Citizenship Requirement: Legal Resident

Eligibility Criteria:  Must be at least 14, must attend prom, must make prom outfit out of Duck Brand tape. Students must attend a high school, home school association, or other school-sanctioned prom during the current calendar year. There is also a PromPosal competition.

Website for application: http://stuckatprom.com/

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San Diego County Citizens' Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 2                                     Award Range: Varies

Citizenship Requirement: Resident of California

Eligibility Criteria: Need-based scholarships for high school seniors attending college full-time in San Diego County this fall. No minimum GPA is required; students must demonstrate a financial need. Applicants must have resided in San Diego County for the last 12 months. Applicants must be first time college students. Applicants must be enrolled in college full-time, a minimum of 12 credit hours. Applicants must have completed an application for financial aid (FASFA or a dream act application). Colleges will include an authorization to release awarded students’ names and grades to the SDCCSF Board of Directors, in application materials.

Website for Application: http://sdccsf.org/applicants-2/

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North Island Credit Union Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 16                                   Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Ten scholarships of $1,000 each for San Diego County high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA and with evidence of school and community involvement. 

Website for application:  https://www.ccu.com/educators/school-employees/scholarships-grants/1000-college-scholarship-program

San Diego Association of Black Journalists Scholarship

Application Deadline: April of every year                       Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors who are interested in majoring in journalism and/or mass communication at a four-year college or university. Must provide official transcripts and proof of enrollment from a four-year college or university to receive funds for this scholarship.

Website for Application: http://www.sdabj.org/archives/3360

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Cal Coast Scholarship Program

Application Deadline: April Annually                             Award Range: $10,000- $30,000

Citizenship Requirement: None

Eligibility Criteria: The high school scholarships are for San Diego County seniors who are current members or a child or grandchild of a current member of California Coast Credit Union. Minimum 3.0 GPA required. The foster youth scholarships are for high school seniors who are or have been in the foster care program. Minimum 2.5 GPA required

Website For Application:  https://www.calcoastcu.org/cal-coast-cares-foundation.htm#studentscholarships

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Cox Charities Scholarship

Application Deadline:   February yearly                          Award Range: $2,500 - $5,000        

Citizenship Requirement:  U.S. Citizen or permanent resident

Eligibility Criteria: Scholarships are available to graduating seniors who live in Cox's San Diego County service area, are enrolling to a full-time two or four year university within the U.S., and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Active involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or work experience. Demonstrated financial need

Website for application: https://www.coxcharitiesca.org/cox-scholars

House of Blues Music Forward Foundation Scholarships

Application Deadline:   March yearly                             Award Range: $10,000        

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Established in 2016, this is one of the few scholarship programs specifically designed to support students interested in the core aspects of the concert business, including: concert promotion, venue operation, ticketing, sponsorship, e-commerce and artist management.

Website for application: https://hobmusicforward.org/programs/scholarships/

Automotive Design Scholarship

Application Deadline:    April yearly                               Award Range: Varies

Citizenship Requirement: Legal U.S residents

Eligibility Criteria: U.S high school students in grades 10-12

Website for application: https://fcadrivefordesign.com/#/

Association of African American Educators Scholarships

Application Deadline:    April yearly                               Award Range: Varies           

Citizenship Requirement:  N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Scholarship candidates must be a graduating high school senior with written proof of acceptance at an accredited institution of higher learning. To be eligible for selection, candidates must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and must complete the Application and Personal Statement essay. Additionally, students must provide two letters of recommendation, test score and a certified copy of the most recent transcripts.

Website for application: www.aaaesandiego.org 

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College Board Opportunity Scholarships

Application Deadline: February 29                                  Award Range: $500-$40,000           

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Criteria: Students must attend a public, private, or home school, located in one of the fifty (50) United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, or any other U.S. territories and possessions;

Are, as of December 5, 2018, juniors in high school, i.e., students in their third year of secondary school; and have a College Board online account.

Website for application: https://opportunity.collegeboard.org/

ThanksUSA Scholarship Program

Application Deadline: May yearly                                  Award Range $3,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Be dependent children, age 24 and under of U.S. military service personnel or be spouses of U.S. military service personnel and be current high school seniors or graduates who plan to enroll or students who are already enrolled in undergraduate study at an accredited two-or four-year college or university or vocational-technical school for the entire 19-20 school year.  Dependent children must enroll full-time. Spouses may attend full or part-time and have at least a 2.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA) on a 4.00 scale or its equivalent on their relevant academic record (e.g., high school record for incoming freshmen or postsecondary school record for those already enrolled in a college, university or vocational/technical school).

Website for application: https://www.thanksusa.org/scholarship-program.html

PixelPlex Annual Scholarship

Application Deadline: August, annually                           Award Range: $2,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen or Permanent Resident

Eligibility Requirements: At the date of the award, you must be enrolled (or accepted with plans to attend) in a college or university in the United States.Your field of study is related to engineering, science, math, physics, economics, or business management.

Website for application: https://pixelplex.io/scholarship/

ACWA Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 1                              Award Range: $3,500

Citizenship Requirement: California resident

Eligibility Requirements: Applicant must be a California resident at the time of application.

Applicant must be attending an accredited, University of California or California State University. Applicant must be pursuing an undergraduate degree in a water resources-related field related to engineering, agricultural and/or urban water supply, environmental studies, or public administration. Applicant must be at least a junior at the time of the award. Applicant must commit to full-time enrollment (12 semester units or 16 quarter units) for the entire academic year. Each year, ACWA awards scholarships to deserving students in a water-resources related field of study. Awards are based on a combination of scholastic achievement and a commitment on the part of the applicants to their chosen fields, best demonstrated by pursuing a degree related to or identified with engineering, agriculture or urban water supply, environmental studies and public administration associated with resources management

Website for application: https://www.acwa.com/about/scholarships/acwa-scholarship/

Migrant Farmworker Baccalaureate Scholarship

Application Deadline: July 1, 2020                                    Award Range: $20,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Recent history of movement for agricultural employment, scholastic achievement, financial need, successful completion of at least one year at an accredited post-secondary institution. Purpose: to provide financial support to a deserving student with a history of migrating for employment in agriculture who has successfully completed one year of college. This support, up to a possible $20,000.00, will cover expenses beyond what the youth has been able to procure in federal/state and other scholarship assistance. This scholarship is designed to assist the youth in obtaining a baccalaureate degree without being encumbered by substantial debt.

Website for application: https://migrant.net/scholarships/

Banatao Family Filipino American Education Fund

Application Deadline: February 23                                    Award Range: $20,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Grade level: Incoming freshman enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university in 2019-20. Minimum GPA: 3.0. Major: engineering, mathematics, computer science, environmental or physical science. Note: those pursuing health careers are not eligible (i.e. physician, nurse, pharmacist, dentist, etc.) Ethnic heritage: Filipino heritage (at least 50%) Financial need.  Residency: Northern California counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Merced, Monterey, Napa, Sacramento, San Benito, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus or Yolo. Southern California counties: Los Angeles, Orange or San Diego.

Website for application: http://asianpacificfund.org/what-we-do/scholarships/apply-for-scholarship/#banatao

 La Jolla Rotary Scholarship Programs for Graduates of La Jolla High Schools

Application Deadline: April 22                                        Award Range: $3,000- $5,000

Citizen Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirement: Applicant must attend a four-year college or university in the United States as a full-time student with enrollment commencing in the fall after graduating high school. Applicant must be a citizen of the United States. Applicant must have an un-weighted cumulative GPA of at least 3.5. Applicant cannot be a child, grandchild, niece or nephew of a member of La Jolla Rotary. Applicant must submit a completed application (refer to section C.) before the specified deadline (refer to section E.). Evaluation criteria include academic achievement, financial need, extracurricular activities, community service, notable experiences or skills, and interview impression.

Website for application: http://www.rotarycluboflajolla.com/scholarships/

Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 31                                        Award Range: $4,000

Citizen Requirements: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Those who have battled cancer at any point in their lives (not limited to mesothelioma). Those who have a parent, sibling, immediate family member or close friend that has battled or is currently fighting cancer. Must be enrolled full-time at an accredited two-year or four-year university, community college or junior college, or a graduate degree program. Students must be in academic “Good Standing” and have a minimum Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher to be eligible.

Website for application: https://www.mesothelioma.com/scholarship/

Adrian Rubin Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline: August 1                                          Award Range: $1,200

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirements: You are eligible to apply for this scholarship if you are a high school senior that has been accepted into a college or a current college student that hasn’t reached their last year in college. The Adrian Rubin Foundation Scholarship was created by Philadelphia based photographer Adrian Rubin to help students across the nation be able to afford to continue their education after high school. This is the second year that Mr. Rubin has funded this project and he looks forward to continuing it years into the future.

Website for application: https://adrianrubinfoundation.com/

Deana’s Wish Memorial Scholarship

Application Deadline: March annually                                 Award Range: $2,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Applicant has been diagnosed with, or have an immediate family member (spouse, parent, grandparent, sibling or child) who has been affected by esophageal or stomach cancer? Maintained a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.0. SAT score of at least 1100 or/an ACT score of at least 24. Provide one or more letters of recommendations

Website for application: https://www.dlhfoundation.org/scholarship

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American Chemical Society                                          

Application Deadline: March Yearly                                   Award Range: $2,500- $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen or permanent resident

Eligibility Requirements: Senior of African/ American, Hispanic/ Latino, or American Indian descent. GPA of 3.0 or higher. Demonstrates financial need. Planning on majoring in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a chemically related science. he ACS Scholars Program awards renewable scholarships to underrepresented minority students majoring in undergraduate chemistry-related disciplines and are also intending to pursue careers in chemistry-related fields. Selected recipients are awarded up to $5,000* per academic year. To date, over 3,000 students have received a funding from the ACS Scholars Program.

Website for application: https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/funding-and-awards/scholarships/acsscholars/apply.html

American Institute of Architects/ American Architectural Foundation Minority/ Disadvantaged Scholarship

Application Deadline: January Annually                                         Award Range: Varies

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Varies by scholarship. A scholarship from the Architects Foundation can help you reach them. Every year, the foundation awards thousands of dollars in architecture scholarships to high school students, architecture students in NAAB-accredited undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and Architect Registration Exam (ARE) candidates who are working toward becoming licensed architects.

Website for application: https://expd.uw.edu/expo/scholarships/aaf

American Legion Legacy Scholarship

Application Deadline: April annually                                               Award Range: $20,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Children of U.S. military members who died while on active duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001. Children of post-9/11 veterans having been assigned a combined disability rating of 50 percent or greater by the Department of Veterans Affairs also qualify. High school senior or high school graduate currently accepted or attending an accredited institution of higher education within the United States.

Website for application: https://www.legion.org/scholarships/legacy/about

American Nuclear Society “ Incoming Freshman” Scholarship

Application Deadline: February                                                       Award Range: $1,000- $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: No requirement

Eligibility Requirements: Undergraduate and graduate scholarships are open to ANS student members enrolled in a course of study relating to a degree in nuclear science or nuclear engineering. All applications must be sponsored by a faculty advisor of an ANS Student Section or Alpha Nu Sigma Chapter. U.S. and non-U.S. residents may apply if they are enrolled in and attending an accredited institution in the United States with an established ANS Student Section or Alpha Nu Sigma chapter. Incoming freshmen scholarships are open to graduating high-school seniors who have enrolled, full-time, in college courses pursuing science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) with an interest in working in nuclear science and technology.

Website for application: https://www.ans.org/honors/scholarships/

American Veterans JROTC National Scholarship Program

Application Deadline: April annually                                   Award Range: $1,000-$6,000

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Senior who has a 3.0 GPA or higher. Child or grandchild or a US veteran who is an AMVETS member, or if deceased, would have been eligible for AMVES membership. Demonstrates academic promise and financial need. Must be an ROTC cadet. AMVETS annually awards scholarships to veterans/active military, their sons, daughters or grand-children. A son, daughter or grandchild of a deceased veteran is also eligible. Awarded on the basis of academic excellence and financial need, the scholarships go to deserving high school seniors, high school JROTC students and veterans pursuing a higher education.

Website for application: https://amvets.org/scholarships/

Annual Zeb Scholarship

Application Deadline: December                                                    Award Range: $2,500

Citizenship Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirements: Must be an undergraduate student

Must attend a university, a four-year college, two-year college or a vocational-tech school

Minimum 3.0 GPA. Must currently be a high school student. Both full-time and part-time students. Must be affiliated with Young American Bowling Alliance. Scholarship is awarded to a USBC Youth member who achieves academic success and gives back to his/her community through service.

Website for application: https://www.bowl.com/scholarships/

ARTBA Highway Worker Memorial Scholarship

Application Deadline: April annually                                             Award Range: $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: n/a

Eligibility Requirements: Eligibility for the scholarship is limited to the sons, daughters

or legally adopted children of highway workers who die or have become permanently disabled in roadway work zone accidents. The applicant’s parent must have been employed by a transportation construction firm or a transportation public agency at the time of his or her death or disabling injury.

Website for application: https://www.artba.org/foundation/scholarship-awards/

Asian and Pacific Islander Scholarship Fund

Application Deadline: September annually                          Award Range: $2,500- $20,000

Citizenship Requirement: Citizen, National or Legal Permanent Resident

Eligibility Requirements: Be of Asian and/or Pacific Islander ethnicity as defined by the U.S. Census Citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and the Republic of Palau are also eligible to apply. Be enrolling as an undergraduate student in a U.S. accredited college or university in the Fall of school year for which applying. APIA Scholars provides scholarships to underserved APIA students with a special focus on those who:

Live at or below the poverty level, or are otherwise of low socioeconomic status;

Are the first in their families to attend college; Are representative of the APIA community’s diversity, (geographically and ethnically}, especially those ethnicities that have been underrepresented on college campuses due to limited access and opportunity; and have placed a strong emphasis on community service and leadership as well as solid academic achievement.

 Website For application: https://apiascholars.org/scholarship/apia-scholarship/

California Association of Collectors

Application Deadline: June Annually                             Award Range: $1,500- $2,500

Citizenship Requirement: none

Eligibility Requirements: CACESF’s scholarship contest is open to current high school juniors and seniors who are enrolled in a California high school and will be attending any accredited public or private college, university, or trade school within 12 months of graduation.

Website for application: http://cacesf.org/rules_app.html

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California Farm Bureau Federation

Application Deadline: March                                                     Award Range: $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: California Resident

Eligibility Requirements: Any undergraduate student entering or attending a four-year accredited college or university in California and pursuing a career in the agricultural field.

Website for application: https://www.cfbf.com/scholarship-foundation

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California Peace Officers Association Scholarship

Application Deadline: June annually                                    Award Range: $2,000- $4,000

Citizenship Requirement: n/a

Eligibility Requirements: Scholarship recipients must be a survivor of a peace officer killed in the line of duty and enrolled on the California Peace Officers’ Memorial Monument. Eligible survivors are: Spouses, Children, Stepchildren, Adopted children.

Students must be enrolled in, at a minimum, the fall semester of the forthcoming school year.

Students must carry a minimum of six (6) units per quarter or eight (8) units per semester.

Students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Past CPOMF scholarship recipients must provide sealed copies of their most recent transcripts. Scholarship funds shall be spent for educational needs and recipients shall return a signed ‘Acceptance of Terms and Conditions statement to CPOMF upon receipt of funds. Individuals may receive a maximum of six (6) scholarship awards.

Website for application: https://camemorial.org/scholarship-program/

Cancer for College Scholarship

Application Deadline: January 31 Annually                        Award Range: $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: n/a

Eligibility Requirements: You must personally have been diagnosed with cancer. You are either attending or planning to attend an accredited college or university, located in the US. You are enrolled/planning to enroll in a degree-earning program, not a certificate-earning program. You will attend school as a full-time student as an undergraduate student or at least part time as a graduate student. Adjusted gross income for the applicant (or their parent/guardian, if they are dependent) for the most recent tax year must be no more than $150,000.

Website for application: https://www.cancerforcollege.org/applications.html

Children of Warriors National Presidents’ Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 1 annually                              Award Range: $5,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirements: The American Legion Auxiliary sponsors the Children of Warriors National Presidents' Scholarship to support the children of our warriors. These scholarships are awarded to 15 students annually who excel in academics and volunteer in their communities. Candidates for this award shall be daughters, sons, grandsons, granddaughters, great-granddaughters, great-grandsons of veterans who served in the Armed Forces during eligibility dates for membership in The American Legion, listed below.

WWI                                                                                     April 6, 1917 - November 11,1918

WWII                                                                        December 7, 1941 - December 31, 1946

Korean War                                                                June 25, 1950 - January 31, 1955

Vietnam War                                                              February 28, 1961 - May 7, 1975

Lebanon and Grenada                                                August 24, 1982 - July 31, 1984

Panama                                                                       December 20, 1989 - January 31, 1990

Desert Shield/Storm Gulf War/War on Terrorism      August 2, 1990 to date of cessation

Website for application: https://www.alaforveterans.org/Scholarships/Children-of-Warriors-National-Presidents--Scholarship/

Edison International- Edison Scholars Program

Application Open: October

Application Deadline: N/A                                                   Award Range: $40,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirements: Must be a high school senior with at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA, plan to pursue studies in the STEM fields at a four-year accredited college or university and show financial need. Eligible STEM majors include computer and information systems, engineering, engineering technology, management information systems, mathematics, natural resources and conservation and physical sciences. Applicants must live in Southern California Edison’s service territory. The top 50 finalists will be required to submit a short video. Don’t stress, it’s simple. Dependents of Edison International and SCE employees and retirees are not eligible

Website for application: https://www.edison.com/home/community/edison-scholars.html

Elizabeth Nash Foundation Scholarship 

Application Deadline: April Annually                                 Award Range: $1,000- $2,500

Citizen Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirement: The Elizabeth Nash Foundation Scholarship program is open to individuals with CF who are in-going or current undergraduate or graduate students at an accredited US-based college or university.  Given limited resources, the program is currently only open to US citizens.

Website for application: http://www.elizabethnashfoundation.org/scholarships.html

GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline: January Annually                             Award Range: $10,000

Citizen Requirement: U.S Citizen

Eligibility Requirement: To be eligible for this award, applicants must:

demonstrate at school, at the workplace, and within the community the attributes of leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship; demonstrate strong academic performance (minimum 3.0 grade point average/4.0 scale or equivalent); be citizens of the United States of America; be current high school seniors attending high school in the United States (students living on U.S. Armed Forces base and homeschooled students are also eligible); and plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study toward a bachelor’s degree at an accredited four-year college or university in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year.

Website for application: https://www.reaganfoundation.org/education/scholarship-programs/ge-reagan-foundation-scholarship-program/

Hispanic Scholarship

Application Deadline: February Annually                                          Award Range: $500-$5,000

Citizen Requirement: US Citizen, Permanent Legal Resident, DACA or Eligible Non-Citizen (as defined by FAFSA)

Eligibility Requirement: Must be of Hispanic heritage. Minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for high school students. Minimum of 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) for undergraduate and graduate students. Plan to enroll full-time in an accredited, not-for-profit, four-year university, or graduate school, during the fall of a scholarship cycle (year). Complete FAFSA or state based financial aid application (if applicable)

Website for application: https://www.hsf.net/scholarship

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Horatio Alger Association Scholarship

Application Deadline: October 25                                                    Award Range: $2,500- $25,000

Citizen Requirement: U.S Citizen or permanent resident

Eligibility Requirement: Senior who plans on pursuing a 4-year college degree (students may begin studies at 2-year college then transfer). Critical financial need 9 $50,000 agi per family is preferred) Involvement in co-curricular and community activities. Perseverance in overcoming adversity. GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Website for application: https://scholars.horatioalger.org/scholarships/about-our-scholarship-programs/

Actuarial Diversity Scholarship

Application Deadline: May 2                                                         Award Range: $7,500

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Must have at least one birth parent who is a member of one of the following minority groups: Black/African American, Hispanic, Native North American, Pacific Islander. Enrolling as or enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student at a U.S. accredited educational institution. Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), emphasis on math or actuarial courses. Entering college freshmen must have a minimum ACT math score of 28 or SAT math score of 620. Intent on pursuing a career in the actuarial profession.

Website for application: https://www.actuarialfoundation.org/scholarships/actuarial-diversity-scholarship/

National Federation of the Blind

Application Deadline: Usually around March 30                                Award Range: $3,000- $12,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Must be legally blind (PDF) in both eyes. Must be residing in the United States, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico. Must be pursuing or planning to pursue a full-time, post-secondary course of study in a degree program at a U.S. institution in the fall of the year of application (one scholarship may be given to a person employed full-time while attending school part-time). Must participate in the entire NFB National Convention and in all of its scheduled scholarship program activities (finalists will receive assistance to attend the national convention).

Website for application: https://nfb.org/programs-services/scholarships-and-awards/scholarship-program

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Small Title

Vida Scholarship for LGBTQ Latinx students

Application Deadline: Usually in spring                                Award Range: TBD

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: TBD

Website for application: https://vida.community/scholarship

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BBB Ambassador Scholarship

Application Deadline: October annually                                Award Range: $1,000-$2,500

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: Through the Better Business Bureau's (BBB) Ambassador Scholarship program, students can win scholarships between $1,000 and $2,500 for delivering presentations to their peers with tips and resources for navigating topics such as credit, rentals, loans, and employment scams as they near college and beyond. Each ambassador or team needs to deliver a minimum of three presentations to groups of any size organized through school or other extracurriculars. The application deadline in 2019 is Oct. 31.

Website for application: https://www.bbb.org/pacific-southwest/student-scholarship/student-ambassador-program/

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BBB Ethical Torch Essay

Application Deadline: September annually                                Award Range: $500-$1,500

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: The BBB will award five scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500 to students in grades 9-12 who submit an essay about the importance of ethics and integrity in the community. The application deadline is Sept.10. Winners must be present at the Torch Awards for Ethics event Oct. 9. The application deadline in 2019 is September 10.

Website for application: https://www.bbb.org/pacific-southwest/student-scholarship/torch-award-scholarship/

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USD's Character Development Center Essay Contest

Application Deadline: September annually                                Award Range: $100-$300

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

The University of San Diego's Character Development Center announces the fifth annual Fall Essay Contest sponsored by The Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation and the Character Education Resource Center.  

This year's theme, Who is Your Hero?, asks students in grades 6 to 12 to reflect on the core values of the U.S. Marine Corps and our society by exploring what the virtues of honor, courage, and commitment mean in their own lives. Cash prizes are awarded to first through third place winners, and teachers of winning students receive a cash award as well.

The essay contest opens Sept. 9 and all entries must be received by Nov. 11.

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Website for application: https://flyingleathernecks.org

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Uncommon Goods Scholarship

Application Deadline: July 15 and December 15 annually                  Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

We're looking for current or future undergraduate art or design majors at accredited universities, at least 16 years of age. Our Scholarship Committee will consider artwork across all mediums. Past winners include aspiring photographers, industrial designers, and fashion designers. Please note you are only eligible to receive the UncommonGoods Scholarship once. Everyone else: Please keep trying!

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Website for application: https://www.uncommongoods.com/scholarships

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Cards Against Humanity Science Ambassador Scholarship

Application Deadline: December 9, 2019                                    Award Range: Full-tuition

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

A full–tuition scholarship for a woman in science, technology, engineering, or math.

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Website for application: https://www.scienceambassadorscholarship.org/

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Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Scholarships

Application Deadline: Varies; annually as early as December 1         Award Range: Up to $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards are the nation’s longest-running and most prestigious recognition program for creative teens in grades 7–12. This year, students submitted nearly 340,000 works of visual art and writing to the Scholastic Awards; nearly 90,000 works were recognized at the regional level and celebrated in local exhibitions and ceremonies. The top art and writing at the regional level were moved onto the national stage, where more than 2,700 students earned National Medals. National Medalists and their educators were celebrated at the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City.

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Website for application: https://www.artandwriting.org/scholarships/

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Sleep-related Scholarships/Mattress Advisor

Application Deadline: Varies; March 20 annually for Mattress Advisor     Award Range: Varies; around $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

Students who share an essay about their relationship with sleep health will be considered for the Mattress Advisor award. In addition to offering the Sleep Science scholarship, here is a list of other great sleep-related scholarships that students can apply to. If you have any questions regarding our scholarship, please contact our scholarship coordinator Kelly Yates at sleepscholarships@gmail.com and she will be happy to assist you.

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Website for application: https://www.mattressadvisor.com/sleep-scholarships/

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Sleep-related Scholarship/Mattress Nerd

Application Deadline: April 1 annually                                            Award Range: $1,000

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

• All applicants must be enrolled, or due to be enrolled, as a full-time student at an accredited US college or university for the semester that they are applying to receive the scholarship. 

• Applicants are not required to have a minimum GPA. 

• Applicants are not required to have a specific Major.

• Domestic, international, and undocumented students may apply.

• Students attending online universities are welcome to apply.

• Applicant must be someone who is promoting positive environmental change

• Write a 500-1,000-word essay answering the following questions: What choices can we make as consumers to better our carbon footprints? What reuse and recycle innovations do you think are leading the change in business environmental conscientiousness? What have you altered about your own day-to-day life to reduce your own environmental impact?

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Website for application: https://www.mattressnerd.com/scholarship/

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Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. San Diego Alumnae Chapter Scholarship

Application Deadline: March 31 annually                                            Award Range: Unspecified

Citizenship Requirement: N/A

Eligibility Requirement: 

• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., San Diego Alumnae Chapter recognizes and honors female students who are committed to academic excellence, positive leadership, and community service. 

• Scholarships are limited to African-American female high school seniors and college/university undergraduate students who reside in San Diego Alumnae Chapter’s Service Area.  The applicant must demonstrate the following: 

• Academic achievement (minimum 2.75 G.P.A. on a 4.0 scale or 3.5 G.P.A. on a 5.0 scale in all classes)

• Leadership ability as demonstrated by participation in extracurricular activities, community service, and/or holding positions in various organizations. Questions: sdac.scholarships2019@gmail.com. Website: https://www.dstsandiego.org/scholarship

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Website for application: Download SDAC 2020 Scholarship Application

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