How Do You Get California Scholarships?

In order to get a scholarship, California students should search their high school. Local businesses, nonprofits, and even state aid programs may offer financial aid.

What California Colleges Offer Full Ride Scholarships?

Many of the biggest CA colleges like University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and University of Southern California offer full ride scholarships. For example, UCLA also offers the Stamps Scholars program to ten freshmen.

Are There Scholarships for Out of State Students in California?

Yes, there are scholarships for out of state students with plans to study in California. One award is the UC Davis Regents Scholarship which is merit based. Find out if you qualify and see more out of state awards in California.

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Written by McKenna Deen

✔️ Edited by Dave Moniz

Are you a high school student deciding where to go to college? Or are you a college student currently attending a university in California? This is just for you! Join us as we delve into the world of California scholarships, exploring the resources available to help you achieve your academic goals.

List of California Scholarships for College

Powell Scholarship at University of the Pacific

$44,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jan 15 Deadline

More than just a scholarship, the Powell Scholars program is a ticket to life-altering experiences. We seek high achieving students from across all majors who demonstrate leadership potential, pursue creative endeavors and innovative research, and become game-changers in their communities both locally and globally. Powell Scholars are one-of-a-kind students, and it is a privilege to share in their personal and intellectual growth.

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Cathay Bank Foundation Scholarship

$20,000 Award Amount

20 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

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Chao Family Foundation

$20,000 Award Amount

5 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. Awardees will be notified no later than June 30th. If selected, must submit college acceptance letter for verification. The scholarship award can only be used to cover the cost of attending a university/college. This may include tuition, fees, books, supplies, living expenses, and meals. What is included in the cost of attendance varies by institution.

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First General Bank Scholarship

$8,000 Award Amount

4 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. All of the scholarships have an online application and recommender form that can only be found on our site. The online applications can be found at https://www.apcf.org/scholarships Application requires student to list out community service activities, disclose some family financial information, and answer 2-500 word essay prompts. The applicant must share the recommender form link with their preferred advisor for submission.

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Harold J West Scholarship

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. All of the scholarships have an online application. The online applications can be found at https://www.apcf.org/scholarships Application requires student to list out community service activities, disclose some family financial information, and answer 5-350 word essay prompts.

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Kao Kalio Yang Scholarship

$25,000 Award Amount

5 Awards

Apr 3 Deadline

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Mega Bank Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

5 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. All of the scholarships have an online application and recommender form that can only be found on our site. The online applications can be found at https://www.apcf.org/scholarships Application requires student to list out community service activities, disclose some family financial information, and answer 2-500 word essay prompts. The applicant must share the recommender form link with their preferred advisor for submission.

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Preferred Bank Scholarship

$16,000 Award Amount

8 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. All of the scholarships have an online application and recommender form that can only be found on our site. The online applications can be found at https://www.apcf.org/scholarships Application requires student to list out community service activities, disclose some family financial information, and answer 2-500 word essay prompts. The applicant must share the recommender form link with their preferred advisor for submission.

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State Bank of India (California) Scholarship

$10,000 Award Amount

10 Awards

Apr 15 Deadline

APCF was founded in 1990 by API community leaders in response to the need for alternative funding for Los Angeles-based nonprofit organizations serving API communities. Since 2011, APCF has partnered with donors such as local companies and family foundations to offer scholarship programs to financially assist students in their pursuit of higher education. All of the scholarships have an online application and recommender form that can only be found on our site. The online applications can be found at https://www.apcf.org/scholarships Application requires student to list out community service activities, disclose some family financial information, and answer 2-500 word essay prompts. The applicant must share the recommender form link with their preferred advisor for submission.

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Friends of the California State Fair Scholarship Program

$30,000 Award Amount

12 Awards

Mar 8 Deadline

The Friends of the California State Fair offers 12 categories of scholarships with varying eligibility requirements. Applicants may apply for one scholarship category of their choice per year. Applicants must meet all of the criteria for a specific scholarship to be an eligible candidate. Applicants must plan to enroll for both the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters. Students graduating after the fall 2023 are not eligible to apply, as this scholarship is intended for the full academic year. The Friends of the California State Fair offers 12 categories of scholarships with varying eligibility requirements: • Agricultural Students (current college student) • Agricultural Students (high school senior) • Art Major • Business Major • California State Fair Exhibitors or Volunteers • Culinary, Hospitality, or Event Planning Major • International Agriculture Students (sponsored by Blue Diamond) • Sacramento Region Top Achiever • Teacher Credential Program • Top 10 Percent of Class • Trade School Program • Wine & Grape Growing Major Applicants may apply for one scholarship category of their choice per year. Applicants must meet all of the criteria for a specific scholarship to be an eligible candidate. Applicants must plan to enroll for both the fall 2023 and spring 2024 semesters. Students graduating after the fall 2023 are not eligible to apply, as this scholarship is intended for the full academic year.

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Max J. Madrid Law Diversity Scholarship

$10,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Jan 28 Deadline

To advance the goals of diversity and inclusion within the legal profession, Modrall Sperling has established the Max J. Madrid Law Diversity Scholarship. The scholarship provides tuition assistance toward an awardee’s second or third year of law school. Persons in their first or second year of law school may apply if they are from a diverse background that historically has been underrepresented within the legal profession. Modrall Sperling is dedicated to fostering an environment that embraces differences, promotes equality, and engenders mutual respect and inclusion where everyone has the opportunity to excel. To be eligible for the Max J. Madrid Law Diversity Scholarship, applicants must: demonstrate strong academic achievement in college and, if applicable, in the first year of law school; demonstrate leadership qualities with employment and/or community service experience; demonstrate excellence in research and communication skills, including written and oral; make a compelling statement of the applicant’s desire and the ability to overcome obstacles; attend an ABA-accredited law school; and plan to practice law in the state of New Mexico.

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Fracsun STEM California Higher Education Scholarship

$500 Award Amount

1 Award

Jun 30 Deadline

We are excited to announce that the Fracsun scholarship application is now open to all California higher education students! The Fracsun scholarship is a unique opportunity for California students to earn financial assistance for their education while also showcasing their passion for making a positive environmental impact on the world through their field of study. To apply for the Fracsun scholarship, students must submit a 1,000 to 3,000-word essay explaining how their field of study and career path will have a positive impact on our climate and environment. This essay should demonstrate the student's understanding of their chosen field and how they plan to use their education to make a difference. Feel free to include photos, graphs and videos to help us understand your story. The Fracsun scholarship is open to all STEM students, regardless of their field of study. Whether you are studying engineering, medicine, education, or the arts, we want to hear about your plans to make a positive environmental impact. We are especially interested in hearing from students who are working on innovative projects or research. The Fracsun scholarship is a great opportunity for California students to earn financial assistance for their education while also showcasing their passion for the climate and environment. The scholarship is designed to recognize and support students who are committed to using their education to make a positive impact. We encourage all California higher education students to apply for the Fracsun scholarship. The application deadline is noted below. Submit your essay today and take the first step toward earning financial assistance for your education. If you have any questions about the scholarship or the application process, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can read more about our company at www.fracsun.com. We look forward to reading your essays and learning more about how you plan to use your education to make a difference.

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Avalaunch Media Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

At the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range sits Avalaunch Media’s headquarters. Within the office you’ll find a 2-foot statue of a yeti symbolizing the mission and purpose of our team. Although some don’t know what a yeti is, or if it even exists, the tall tale of the yeti inspires us. We’re on a quest to create believers in digital marketing through measurable results. Our abominable snowman – Eddy the Yeti – surrounds our team of digital marketers who believe. Are you a believer? We are excited to announce the launch of our annual Avalaunch Media Scholarship Contest. The winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. Avalaunch Media is committed to supporting students in their educational pursuits and helping to develop the next generation of believers.

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All Star Verified Scholarship

$3,000 Award Amount

3 Awards

Aug 31 Deadline

The Problem: We've been in the scholarship world for over two decades! In that time we have seen the explosion of fake, scammy and downright misleading scholarships. Back when we started, spotting a scholarship scam was easy. They always charged a fee for entry. That's how they made money. But today your personal information is more valuable than a fee. Even worse than trading your personal information to apply for a scholarship is the fact that many of these scholarships are never even awarded. Back in the day you mailed (as in through the post office) application forms and something called a SASE. What the heck is a SASE? It's short for Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope or basically an envelope with your address on it as well as a stamp. This way the scholarship organization could just drop the letter in the mail to let you know they received your application. Also, if they were really on the ball they would send you a list of winners once the scholarship was over. So why in the 21st century do most students submit their application online and then never hear a thing from scholarship providers? This is worse than in the old days and is unacceptable in our opinion. Our Solution: We started Verified Scholarships as a solution to this problem. By verifying all scholarships, we guarantee that the awards you find are worth your time to apply. We also encourage scholarship providers to improve their programs from the perspective of the applicant. Make the award details clear and easy to find. Publish a list of winners on a regular basis. And, please communicate regularly with applicants. The internet has made finding awards much easier. But applying still takes the same amount of time as before. Therefore, we believe that all scholarship providers should have the interest of their applicants as priority number one. We hope you find Verified Scholarships useful and remember that everything on our site is free for you -- the user. If you want to get involved, there is one favor you can do for us. While our staff of superstar scholarship verifiers are working every day, they cannot match the collective power of our users. If you see an issue with any scholarship in our database, please use the "Error Report" link next to the scholarship listing to let us know. Together we will create a world where only verified scholarships thrive!

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Extensiv Supply Chain Scholarship

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Jul 1 Deadline

The Extensiv Supply Chain Scholarship is intended to give aspiring logistics and supply chain professionals financial support during their educational journey. It is also meant to inspire new ideas for the supply chain and warehousing industry. Read the requirements below to see if you qualify to earn a $2500 scholarship for the 2023 Fall Semester.

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Rise Above Scholarship

$1,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 1 Deadline

It is a great feeling to be a part of a team working towards a common goal. Working for a good company instills essential values and develops people socially and professionally. At Silberman & Lam LLP, we advocate for the everyday employee. Our firm works on cases primarily regarding Workers’ Compensation law, and we are very familiar with seeing employees being taken advantage of by their employers. Often, people are uninformed of their rights as employees, and managers or executives can exploit their labor and time. That is why we created the Rise Above Scholarship to hear from students across the nation about any similar experience that shaped them. As a workers’ compensation firm, we hope this scholarship will create helpful discussions between students to instill confidence as an employee. We ask people to share a time when they felt like they were being taken advantage of as an employee, intern, or group member. How did this experience affect your professional relationships with those involved? Has your experience helped you look for future or current employment red flags? How did a negative, professional situation turn out to be a positive one in the long run, and how did you learn from it?z

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Making Waves Scholarship

$500 Award Amount

1 Award

May 22 Deadline

At Mattis Law, we’ve dedicated our practice to Family Law, and we do everything we can to ensure that children and their families will have a safe and happy future. In this spirit, we’re offering a $500 scholarship to benefit a San Diego County high school senior or graduate who wishes to improve their future by pursuing higher education. This scholarship is open to 2024 California high school graduates pursuing a four-year college degree and current college students who graduated from a California high school and are pursuing a four-year degree or are currently enrolled in a two-year college and planning to transfer to a four-year college degree program upon completion.

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Sief Khafagi Scholarship

$2,500 Award Amount

1 Award

Dec 12 Deadline

The Sief Khafagi Scholarship is dedicated to fostering the pursuit of higher education among students who exhibit exceptional academic achievements. This program offers a $2,500 scholarship aimed at supporting students in state-sponsored colleges or universities. We believe in the transformative power of education and are committed to assisting dedicated students in achieving their academic aspirations. Apply for the Sief Khafagi Scholarship today and take a step toward realizing your higher education dreams.

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The Vipin Agrawal Memorial Scholarship fund

$8,000 Award Amount

4 Awards

May 30 Deadline

The Vipin Agrawal Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to students from low-income and immigrant backgrounds. In order to create diversity in the industry and spark new innovations, it is important to platform diverse undergraduate students.

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First Year Scholarship

$80,000 Award Amount

200 Awards

Mar 15 Deadline

This award is available for U.S. high school seniors who are Catholic, of Italian descent, or have a non-Italian Catholic parent or grandparent who is a member of the Italian Catholic Federation. Students must have a grade point average of 3.2 or higher and live within the Catholic Dioceses of California, Nevada, Illinois, or Arizona. A complete list of participating branches is available online.

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California Wine Grape Growers Foundation (CWGGF) Scholarship

$30,000 Award Amount

6 Awards

Mar 5 Deadline

This award is available for current high school seniors whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) worked as a vineyard employee of a winegrape grower during the 2017 or 2018 season. Applicants must plan to enroll full time in a University of California, California State University or California community college.

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Brigadier General John Bissell Scholarship

$2,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Mar 15 Deadline

The Brigadier General John Bissell Scholarship is available for graduating seniors at Seaside High School in Seaside California. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement, financial need, good character, and a strong potential for leadership. Click here to learn more and apply today!

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The Fauneil J. Rinn Scholarship

$5,000 Award Amount

1 Award

Feb 28 Deadline

The Fauneil J. Rinn Scholarship is available for women who are studying political science or public administration at San José State University. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

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John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship Fund

$5,000 Award Amount

2 Awards

Jan 29 Deadline

The John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship Fund is available for current high school seniors and prior graduates of a high school in Ventura County, California. Applicants must be majoring in or planning to major in a field of public service.

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Bob and Evie Florence Memorial Scholarship Fund

$500 Award Amount

1 Award

Jan 29 Deadline

The Bob and Evie Florence Memorial Scholarship Fund is available for high school seniors and current undergraduate students in Ventura County or Los Angeles County who are majoring in or planning to major in music.

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EXPERT INSIGHT The California Ban on Scholarship Displacement Act is a game-changer for students receiving private scholarships. Rather than having those awards inadvertently reduce institutional financial aid, the law ensures private scholarships truly supplement the support package. This allows students with financial need to maximize their funding sources without penalty. The act opens up new possibilities for pursuing higher education goals without being deterred by cost concerns. Students can feel empowered to actively seek out and accept private scholarships on top of their existing aid package, amplifying their ability to afford the education pathway of their choice. It's an incredibly positive step that puts more money directly into the hands of California's college-bound students who need it most.

-JP Novin (BA, MBA, EdD) Expert Quote from JP Novin

With over 750 institutions spread across the state, including 339 colleges and universities, 170 private for-profit trade schools, and 116 accredited community colleges, California offers an incredible amount of academic opportunities.

In 2023, California had over 2.1 million undergraduate students, establishing itself as the leader in higher education enrollment in the United States. Whether you aspire to study engineering, the arts, business, or any other field, California’s educational landscape caters to a multitude of interests and ambitions.

However, we know that pursuing higher education can present financial challenges, especially in a state that’s known to have a high cost of living. That’s where scholarships come in. From merit-based scholarships rewarding academic achievement to need-based assistance, different institutions provide a range of funding opportunities to support your educational endeavors.

Let’s explore how you can pursue higher education in the Golden State!

Understanding Scholarships in California

Before we take a look at scholarships in California, let’s talk about how much tuition costs so you understand why scholarships are so essential for California college students.

If you’re attending one of the 23 California State Universities (CSU), “all students enrolled at a CSU campus pay the same systemwide tuition fee, which is currently $5,742 per academic year for undergraduate students enrolling in more than six units per term and $3,330 for undergraduates enrolling in six or fewer units.” On top of that, every CSU campus also has mandatory fees that all students must pay.

For the 2022–2023 academic year, the average cost of tuition and fees at private colleges in California was $39,400. At public colleges, it was about $10,900 for in-state residents and $28,200 for out-of-state residents. Tuition, housing, and campus fees will vary depending on where you go to college. For 2022–2023, room and board at private colleges in California cost about $14,000, and about $12,000 at public colleges.

So now that you know the numbers we’re working with, let’s talk about how to find scholarships!

How Do You Find California Scholarships?

Finding California scholarships may seem like a daunting task, but with strategic approaches and resourcefulness, you can discover numerous opportunities to support your educational journey in the Golden State. Here are some effective strategies to help you uncover scholarships tailored to your needs and aspirations:

Tip #1: Utilize Scholarship Search Engines:

Take advantage of online scholarship search engines such as our Scholarship Match Tool. This allows you to filter scholarships based on information specific to you.

Tip #2: Check with Educational Institutions:

Explore scholarship opportunities offered by the colleges, universities, and trade schools you are interested in attending. Many institutions have dedicated scholarship programs for incoming students based on academic merit, financial need, or specific areas of study. Visit the financial aid or scholarship office website of each institution for detailed information.

Tip #3: Research State and Local Scholarships:

California offers various state-funded scholarship programs, including the Cal Grant program, which provides financial aid to eligible California residents pursuing higher education. Additionally, check with local organizations, businesses, and community foundations in your area for scholarships specific to your city or region.

Tip #4: Review Professional Associations and Organizations:

Investigate scholarships offered by professional associations, industry organizations, and nonprofit foundations related to your intended field of study or career path. These organizations often provide financial support to students pursuing degrees or certifications in specific fields.

Tip #5: Tap into Ethnic and Cultural Resources:

Explore scholarships available to students from diverse ethnic or cultural backgrounds. Many organizations offer scholarships to support underrepresented minority students in pursuing higher education. For example, the Asian Pacific Community Fund offers scholarships to Asian and Pacific Islander American students in California who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.

Tip #6: Attend Scholarship Fairs and Workshops:

Keep an eye out for scholarship fairs, workshops, and information sessions hosted by educational institutions, community organizations, or scholarship providers. These events provide valuable opportunities to learn about available scholarships, network with representatives, and receive guidance on the application process.

Tip #7: Stay Organized and Persistent:

Create a spreadsheet or document to track scholarship opportunities, deadlines, and application requirements. Stay organized and set aside dedicated time each week to search for and apply for scholarships. Be persistent in your efforts, as the process may require patience and perseverance to secure funding for your education.

How Do I Apply for Scholarships in California?

If you plan to attend an accredited college in California, you may qualify for scholarships based on financial need or merit. Besides being a state resident, your grades, college major, gender, and ethnicity may help you earn California scholarships.

Scholarships for High School Students in California. Some awards may be for students who graduated from a specific high school district. California high school scholarships may also be used at community colleges or four-year schools.

State Grants and Scholarships. If you’re a state resident, you may qualify for CA state financial aid. These tend to be used at state schools that partner with these programs.

Field of Study. Many students in CA qualify for scholarships based on their major. For example, the Dr. James L. Hutchinson and Evelyn Ribbs Hutchinson Medical School Scholarship. It is for high school grads in San Mateo County or Santa Clara County. Also, you must be a college senior. You also must be currently enrolled full-time in an accredited medical school program.

Where You Live. There are scholarships for in-state and out-of-state students in California. You may have to be a resident in a certain county such as San Francisco Bay Area.

Academic Achievement. Providers may require a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test scores. Community service and leadership experience may also be required.

Financial Need. Making a college degree more affordable in CA is what these scholarships are about. Providers may assess your family income by looking at your FAFSA.

Gender and Ethnicity. Find college scholarships for Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, African American, and first-generation Americans.

Merit-Based Scholarships in California

Merit-based scholarships in California recognize students for their outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement within the state. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on merit rather than financial need.

Here are some notable examples of merit-based scholarships available exclusively in California:

The University of California Regents Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to incoming freshmen at any of the nine University of California campuses. Recipients are chosen based on their exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and contributions to their communities. The Regents’ Scholarship covers full tuition and fees for four years of undergraduate study.
The California State University (CSU) Presidential Scholarship: The CSU Presidential Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving incoming freshmen at any of the 23 campuses in the California State University system. Recipients are selected based on their academic excellence, leadership abilities, and commitment to community service. The scholarship covers full tuition and fees for four years of undergraduate study.

Scholarships for High School Students in California

High school students in California have access to scholarships to support their academic pursuits and future endeavors. These scholarships are specifically tailored to recognize the achievements and potential of high school students within the state.

Here are some notable examples of scholarships available exclusively to high school students in California:

The California Scholarship Federation (CSF) Scholarships: The CSF offers scholarships to high-achieving high school seniors who are members of the California Scholarship Federation. Recipients are selected based on their academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and community service. The CSF scholarships provide financial assistance to support students’ college education.
The California Association of Student Councils (CASC) Scholarships: The CASC awards scholarships to outstanding high school student leaders in California who have demonstrated leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and communities. These scholarships recognize students’ contributions to student government, community service, and campus activities.

These scholarships represent just a selection of the opportunities available to high school students in specific regions in California:

The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Scholarships: LAUSD offers a range of scholarships to graduating high school seniors within the district. These scholarships may be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, community service, or specific criteria established by individual schools or organizations within the district.
The Silicon Valley Community Foundation (SVCF) Scholarships: SVCF offers scholarships to high school students in the Silicon Valley region of California, supporting students’ educational goals and aspirations. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or awarded to students pursuing specific fields of study or career paths.

Scholarships for High School Seniors in California

If you’re a high school senior, you’re on the brink of an exciting chapter: college. Fortunately, a variety of scholarships are designed specifically to support you during this pivotal time. Let’s explore some notable examples available exclusively to high school seniors in California:

The California State PTA Scholarship Program: Sponsored by the California State Parent Teacher Association (PTA), this scholarship program supports graduating high school seniors across the state. Seniors are selected based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. The PTA scholarships provide financial assistance to help seniors pursue higher education in California.
The California Association of Directors of Activities (CADA) Leadership Scholarship: Sponsored by CADA, this scholarship honors high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and made significant contributions to their school’s activities and events. Recipients are selected based on their leadership roles, impact on campus culture, and commitment to fostering a positive school environment.

Scholarships for College Students in California

When it comes to scholarships for college students in California, several popular options attract a large number of applicants each year. These scholarships are highly sought after and offer significant financial support to students pursuing higher education in the state. Here are some examples:

The Cal Grant Program: The Cal Grant program is one of the most well-known and widely utilized financial aid programs in California. It provides need-based grants to eligible California residents attending qualifying colleges and universities in the state. Cal Grants cover tuition and some fees, making them a valuable resource for many college students in California.
The California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth: This grant provides financial assistance to current or former foster youth who are enrolled in college or vocational school. Eligible students can receive up to $5,000 per year to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses while pursuing their education in California.
The California Dream Act Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition under the California Dream Act. The scholarship, funded by the state of California, provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education at any accredited institution in California.
The Californians for Making College Affordable Scholarship: This scholarship, sponsored by the California Student Aid Commission, is awarded to California high school seniors who demonstrate financial need and academic promise. Recipients receive financial assistance to cover educational expenses at eligible colleges and universities in California.

Scholarships for Graduate Students in California

Many California graduate students may find scholarships to use when pursuing a master’s, PhD, or professional degree in the state. If you’re attending one of the 23 California State Universities (CSU), “in a graduate or another postbaccalaureate program” you can expect to “pay a tuition fee of $7,176 for more than six units and $4,164 for six or fewer units.”

According to the Education Data Initiative, “The cost of a Master’s degree typically ranges between $56,000 and $75,000 depending on the school, the major, and the length of the program.” As a result, saving money on this next part of higher education may make your graduate studies affordable and support your career plans.

Grad school may have awards for niche fields. Nursing students may find grad school scholarships in California. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) offers awards at partner grad schools.

California State University Sacramento is one. The Polly Bednash Scholarship of $5,000 goes to outstanding nurses. Recipients may use the funds to help pay for a master’s or doctoral program at AACN member schools.

Grants for Students in California

Grants can often be essential for offsetting the cost of higher education in California since they offer vital financial support without the burden of repayment. The Cal Grant Program leads the charge, providing need-based aid to eligible students at state-approved institutions.

Administered by the California Student Aid Commission, various grant programs cater to diverse student populations, including undocumented students, foster youth, and veterans. Federal Pell Grants also play a crucial role, in assisting undergraduates with financial needs.

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another program that aids undergraduates with exceptional financial needs. Additionally, colleges and universities in California often provide institutional grants based on academic achievement or financial need.

California Scholarships for Out-of-State Students

California’s allure as a destination for higher education draws students from across the country. California boasts a renowned reputation for innovation and academic excellence, with prestigious universities and colleges renowned for their cutting-edge research, world-class faculty, and dynamic learning environments. Additionally, the state’s diverse cultural landscape, picturesque scenery, and vibrant communities offer a rich tapestry of experiences for students seeking personal and academic growth.

However, despite these educational and professional opportunities, out-of-state students may face financial barriers when considering tuition and living expenses. To alleviate these concerns, consider looking into colleges that offer non-resident and out-of-state scholarships.

Some examples include The UC Berkeley Achievement Award for Out-of-State Students, The UCLA Chancellor’s Blue and Gold Scholarship for Out-of-State Students, The Cal Poly SLO Non-Resident Scholarship, The USC Presidential Scholarship for Out-of-State Students, and The Pepperdine University Non-Resident Scholarship.

What California Colleges Provide Full-Ride Scholarships?

Securing a full-ride scholarship can alleviate the financial burden of higher education, covering tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes even additional expenses. While full-ride scholarships are competitive, several California colleges offer such prestigious awards to exceptional students. Let’s explore some of the California colleges known for providing full-ride scholarships:

Stanford University:

Stanford University is renowned for its generous financial aid program, which meets the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. Through a combination of scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, Stanford ensures that students from all backgrounds can afford to attend.

University of Southern California (USC):

USC offers the Mork Family Scholarship which can be up to $56,225 in financial assistance per year. Scholarships are renewable for eight semesters of enrollment. The scholarship includes full tuition. Along with that, the recipient gets housing and other living expenses. The total dollars awarded for this scholarship is $225,000.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA):

UCLA’s Stamps Scholarship program provides full tuition, room, board, and a stipend for outstanding students. Recipients of the Stamps Scholarship demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and service. The scholarship covers all expenses for four years of undergraduate study.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech):

Caltech offers the Caltech Scholarship, which covers tuition, fees, room, and board for all four years of undergraduate study. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.

University of California, Berkeley:

UC Berkeley’s Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarships provide full tuition, fees, room, board, and a stipend for outstanding incoming freshmen. Recipients are chosen based on academic achievement, leadership, and contributions to their communities.

10 Scholarships in California You Should Apply For

There are a wealth of California scholarships to apply for in 2024 including:

Banatao Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship
CA Teachers Association Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Scholarship
CTA Scholarship For Dependent Children
Cal Grant B Competitive Award
Cal Grant A Entitlement Award
California Farm Bureau Scholarship
Central California Asian Pacific Women Scholarships
ACWA Scholarship
AIST San Francisco Member Chapter Scholarship
Northern California Asian Peace Officer’s Association Scholarship

When searching for scholarships in California, it’s also worth exploring beyond the conventional options to discover some interesting opportunities tailored to specific interests and backgrounds. Here are some examples of scholarships that offer a unique twist and might just be a perfect fit for you:

The California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who have a passion for agriculture and a commitment to promoting agricultural education in their communities. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement in agriculture-related activities, and an essay detailing their future goals in the field of agriculture.
The California Water Service Group Scholarship: This scholarship supports high school seniors who plan to pursue degrees in fields related to water resources management, environmental science, or engineering. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated interest in addressing water-related challenges.
The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) Scholarship: Sponsored by the CTBA, this scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who have a passion for the horse racing industry and plan to pursue careers in fields such as equine science, veterinary medicine, or business administration related to the Thoroughbred industry.