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Scholarship Review Process

The Scholarships360 Research Team reviews all scholarships individually and strives to exclude any scholarship where any of the below applies:

  • The scholarship requires a fee to apply
  • The scholarship provider’s privacy policy allows for the misuse of student data
  • The scholarship requires paid membership in an organization (with certain exceptions for reputable trade organizations and others)
  • Student are required to sign up for a site or service to apply*
  • The scholarship seems primarily used for lead generation** or idea harvesting purposes***
  • The scholarship website has many grammatical errors and/or advertisements
  • The scholarship or scholarship providing organization seem untrustworthy
  • There is no evidence the scholarship was previously awarded
  • The scholarship has not been awarded in the past 12 months
  • There is no available contact information

If you believe a scholarship has been published in error, please reach out to [email protected] and we’ll take a look!


* There are certain exceptions to this, for example if the sponsoring organization is a major corporation or nonprofit with its own scholarship application system.
** Lead generation scholarships will require students to sign up for an app or website and require minimal (if any) application requirements.
***Idea harvesting scholarships will require students to submit blog posts or other materials that companies may use for marketing purposes.

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Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.

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Top 105 California Scholarships in September 2023

Written by Gabriel Jimenez-Ekman

Gabriel Jimenez-Ekman is a content editor and writer at Scholarships360. He has managed communications and written content for a diverse array of organizations, including a farmer’s market, a concert venue, a student farm, an environmental NGO, and a PR agency. Gabriel graduated from Kenyon College with a degree in sociology.

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and Cece Gilmore

Cece Gilmore is a Content Writer Intern at Scholarships360. Cece is an undergraduate student at Arizona State University pursuing a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications. While at ASU, she has become the Education Editor as well as a published staff reporter at Downtown Devil. Cece is also the co-host of her own radio show on Blaze Radio ASU.

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Edited by Maria Geiger

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

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Updated: September 21st, 2023

California is the most populous state in the country and home to over 300 four-year colleges. Whether you are a born and bred Californian or a student from out of state who wants to see what all the buzz is about, California scholarships will help lighten the financial cost of education. Keep on reading to learn about the top California scholarships to help you pay for college!

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105 Scholarships
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$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship
$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship

Offered by Scholarships360

1 award worth $10,000
Deadline Jun 30, 2024

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…

The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high school student who hopes to go to college, a graduate student who’s in a master’s program, or an adult learner who wants to return to school, you are eligible for our no essay scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to students who get the most out of Scholarships360 scholarships and content. You will be a strong applicant if you apply to scholarships with the Scholarships360 platform. Finalists for this scholarship will be interviewed about their process for funding their education.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship
Niche $25,000 No Essay Scholarship

Offered by Niche

1 award worth $25,000
Deadline Sep 27, 2023

Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.

Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.

Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA, Other

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

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$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship
$2,000 Sallie Mae Scholarship

Offered by Sallie Mae

1 award worth $2,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…

Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for school.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: HS Upperclassmen, College & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship
$25k “Be Bold” No-Essay Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

1 award worth $25,000
Deadline Oct 1, 2023

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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CCNMA Scholarships
CCNMA Scholarships

Offered by CCNMA: Latino Journalists of California

Multiple awards worth $500 - $1,000
Deadline Sep 30, 2023

The CCNMA Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 per student and are based on several criteria, including: commitment to the field of journalism, scholastic achievement,…

The CCNMA Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 per student and are based on several criteria, including: commitment to the field of journalism, scholastic achievement,…

The CCNMA Scholarships range from $500 to $1,000 per student and are based on several criteria, including: commitment to the field of journalism, scholastic achievement, community awareness and financial need. Students must be enrolled full time for the entire academic year in which they apply. They must also be a California resident or attend an accredited college or university in California. All winners are invited to and recognized at the annual CCNMA Scholarship Banquet. If you meet the below eligibility criteria, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Other

Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino

Academic Interest: Journalism

Other Category: Low Income

State: California

Next steps

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Greenhouse Scholars Program
Greenhouse Scholars Program

Offered by Greenhouse Scholars

Multiple awards worth up to $5,000
Deadline Nov 21, 2023

Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open…

Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open…

Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open to residents of Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New York, and North Carolina planning to attend a four-year university. It is offered by Greenhouse Scholars, is a non-profit organization that seeks to empower young students by providing "personal, professional, and financial resources they need to create lasting change in their own lives and the lives of others, regardless of circumstances." By funding young students' educations, they hope to cultivate leaders and make a difference in communities across the nation. Recipients of the award receive up to $5,000 to help pay for their educational expenses. If this sounds like a good opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Senior

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: 3.5

Other Category: Low Income

State: California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New York, North Carolina

Next steps

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Kate Somerville + Foster Nation “Defy Impossible” Esthetics Student Scholarship
Kate Somerville + Foster Nation “Defy Impossible” Esthetics Student Scholarship

Offered by Beauty Changes Lives

1 award worth $20,000
Deadline Nov 30, 2023

The Kate Somerville + Foster Nation “Defy Impossible” Esthetics Student Scholarship is funded by Beauty Changes Lives, an organization focused on empowering the next generation…

The Kate Somerville + Foster Nation “Defy Impossible” Esthetics Student Scholarship is funded by Beauty Changes Lives, an organization focused on empowering the next generation…

The Kate Somerville + Foster Nation “Defy Impossible” Esthetics Student Scholarship is funded by Beauty Changes Lives, an organization focused on empowering the next generation of beauty professionals through scholarships, mentorship, and advanced education to help them build more confidence in the industry. Every cycle, Beauty Changes Lives awards $20,000 to one individual who will or has already aged out of the foster care system and who plans to enroll in a California esthetics program. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more application details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: All Grade Levels

Citizenship: US Citizens

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Academic Interest: Cosmetology

Other Category: Foster Care

State: California

Next steps

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Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship
Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship

Offered by Jazz at the Ballroom

3 awards worth $1,000
Deadline Dec 15, 2023

The Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship is funded by Jazz at the Ballroom, an organization that is committed to keeping swinging, classic jazz thriving, and…

The Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship is funded by Jazz at the Ballroom, an organization that is committed to keeping swinging, classic jazz thriving, and…

The Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship is funded by Jazz at the Ballroom, an organization that is committed to keeping swinging, classic jazz thriving, and creating an environment where every guest feels at home and each artist can share their stories, passion, and talent. Every year, their Jazz at the Ballroom Scholarship awards $1,000 to three high school jazz instrumentalists attending a California high school. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more application details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Students

Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts, Music

State: California

Next steps

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eQuality Scholarships for High School Graduates
eQuality Scholarships for High School Graduates

Offered by eQuality Scholarship Collaborative

10 awards worth $6,000
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

eQuality Scholarships for high school graduates recognize graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in northern and central California students for their service to the…

eQuality Scholarships for high school graduates recognize graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in northern and central California students for their service to the…

eQuality Scholarships for high school graduates recognize graduating high school seniors and recent graduates in northern and central California students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. Applicants must plan to attend or have begun attending an accredited post-secondary institution for the first time in the award year.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Other

Other Category: LGBTQ+

State: California

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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eQuality Scholarships for Medical Students
eQuality Scholarships for Medical Students

Offered by eQuality Scholarship Collaborative

1 award worth $6,000
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

eQuality Scholarships for Medical Students recognize students enrolled or committed to enroll by the interview date in an accredited medical school in California or a…

eQuality Scholarships for Medical Students recognize students enrolled or committed to enroll by the interview date in an accredited medical school in California or a…

eQuality Scholarships for Medical Students recognize students enrolled or committed to enroll by the interview date in an accredited medical school in California or a California resident attending an accredited medical school elsewhere in the United States.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Other

Academic Interest: Healthcare

State: California

Next steps

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eQuality Scholarships for Community College Transfer Students
eQuality Scholarships for Community College Transfer Students

Offered by eQuality Scholarship Collaborative

Multiple awards worth $6,000
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

eQuality scholarships for Community College Transfer Students recognize northern and central California community college students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. Applicants must plan…

eQuality scholarships for Community College Transfer Students recognize northern and central California community college students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. Applicants must plan…

eQuality scholarships for Community College Transfer Students recognize northern and central California community college students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. Applicants must plan to attend or have begun attending an accredited 4-year college or university for the first time in the award year.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Upperclassmen

Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Other

Other Category: LGBTQ+

State: California

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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eQuality Scholarship Collaborative
eQuality Scholarship Collaborative

Offered by Horizons Foundation

Multiple awards worth $6,000 - $12,000
Deadline Jan 31, 2024

The eQuality Scholarship Collaborative awards scholarships to honor and encourage California students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. In general, eligible students fall into…

The eQuality Scholarship Collaborative awards scholarships to honor and encourage California students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. In general, eligible students fall into…

The eQuality Scholarship Collaborative awards scholarships to honor and encourage California students for their service to the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender community. In general, eligible students fall into one of these categories: (A) Resident of northern or central California who completed or expects to complete high school (or equivalent) or community college sometime within July 1st (of the year five years prior to the application year) and June 30 of the application year; (B) LGBT+ graduates of Oakland Unified School District high schools; (C) Students pursuing a medical degree at an accredited medical school in California. Applicants of all sexual orientations and gender identities are eligible for most scholarships. Bear in mind that the eligibility requirements are somewhat different for each type of applicant/student. If you're a California student passionate about serving the LGBTQ+ community, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors, College & Graduate Students

Other Category: LGBTQ+

State: California

Next steps

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Doan Foundation Arts Scholarship
Doan Foundation Arts Scholarship

Offered by Bold.org

2 awards worth $500
Deadline Feb 1, 2024

Introducing the Doan Foundation Arts Scholarship, a beacon of hope for aspiring artists in California. In a world that often belittles creative careers, the Doan…

Introducing the Doan Foundation Arts Scholarship, a beacon of hope for aspiring artists in California. In a world that often belittles creative careers, the Doan…

Introducing the Doan Foundation Arts Scholarship, a beacon of hope for aspiring artists in California. In a world that often belittles creative careers, the Doan Foundation believes in the power and significance of art in our lives. Whether it's music, dance, fashion, design, or theater, art is an essential part of our existence. Sadly, students from low-income backgrounds face additional hurdles in pursuing their artistic dreams. That's why this scholarship is here to lend a helping hand to marginalized teens across California, providing them with the necessary resources to thrive in their artistic endeavors. If you're a low-income high school senior with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a burning passion for the arts, this scholarship is for you. Share how the arts have transformed your life and the challenges you've conquered along the way. Additionally, feel free to showcase your proudest artistic creations. Let this be your stepping stone towards a future where art is celebrated.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Senior

Minimum GPA: 2.5

Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts, Music, Dance

Other Category: Low Income

State: California

Next steps

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Ford Opportunity Program
Ford Opportunity Program

Offered by The Ford Family Foundation

Multiple awards worth 90% of Unmet College Expenses
Deadline Mar 1, 2024

Are you an adult learner or parent who resides in Oregon or in Siskiyou County, California? If so, the Ford Opportunity Program could be a…

Are you an adult learner or parent who resides in Oregon or in Siskiyou County, California? If so, the Ford Opportunity Program could be a…

Are you an adult learner or parent who resides in Oregon or in Siskiyou County, California? If so, the Ford Opportunity Program could be a great opportunity to meet 90% of your unmet college costs. Parents of any age or adults over the age of 25 are eligible to apply. If you fit the bill, we encourage you to apply today. This opportunity will pay for the vast majority of your college expenses!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: Yes

Other Category: Low Income, Adult, Parent

State: California, Oregon

Next steps

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Ethical Torch Essay Scholarship
Ethical Torch Essay Scholarship

Offered by The Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest

15 awards worth $500 - $1,500
Deadline Varies

Introducing the BBB Ethical Torch Essay Scholarship - a chance for high school students to showcase their moral compass and win scholarship prizes worth up…

Introducing the BBB Ethical Torch Essay Scholarship - a chance for high school students to showcase their moral compass and win scholarship prizes worth up…

Introducing the BBB Ethical Torch Essay Scholarship - a chance for high school students to showcase their moral compass and win scholarship prizes worth up to $1,500! The Better Business Bureau recognizes the importance of ethics and wants to honor students who make the right choices. If you're in grades 9-12 and reside in Apache, Coconino, Gila, Imperial, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, Navajo, Orange, Pinal, San Diego, Yavapai or Yuma Counties, in Arizona or Southern California you're eligible to apply. Simply submit a 500-word essay on an ethical issue you faced and how you handled it. As the deadline varies for each region, we recommend checking Better Business Bureau's website for your regional deadline before applying. Five students in Greater Arizona, Orange County, and San Diego County will be awarded this impressive scholarship! If you're eligible, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

State: Arizona, California

Next steps

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Promise of Nursing Faculty Fellowships
Promise of Nursing Faculty Fellowships

Offered by The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association (FNSNA)

Multiple awards worth up to $7,500
Deadline Rolling

Are you a graduate student enrolled in a nursing program in hopes of becoming a nursing educator? If so, consider applying for the Promise of…

Are you a graduate student enrolled in a nursing program in hopes of becoming a nursing educator? If so, consider applying for the Promise of…

Are you a graduate student enrolled in a nursing program in hopes of becoming a nursing educator? If so, consider applying for the Promise of Nursing Faculty Fellowships! The fellowships are open to registered nurses enrolled in graduate-level, degree-granting colleges and universities in one of the "Promise of Nursing" regions. Applicants should also be committed to becoming nurse educators upon completion of their program. The Foundation of the National Student Nurses' Association (FNSNA) offers this and other opportunities to assist nursing students in completing their education. The FNSNA’s mission is to “support nursing education and promote the nursing profession.” Thus, every year, they award scholarships worth up to $7,500 to help multiple recipients afford tuition, academic fees, and books. If you are passionate about becoming a nurse educator, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents

Academic Interest: Education, Healthcare, Nursing

State: California

Next steps

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California Veterans Association College Fee Waiver Program
California Veterans Association College Fee Waiver Program

Offered by California Veterans Association

Multiple awards worth Varies
Deadline Rolling

Are you a child or spouse of a veteran who suffered a disability, died during service, was captured, or was declared missing in action? Further,…

Are you a child or spouse of a veteran who suffered a disability, died during service, was captured, or was declared missing in action? Further,…

Are you a child or spouse of a veteran who suffered a disability, died during service, was captured, or was declared missing in action? Further, are you attending a public university in California? If so, you may qualify for the California Veterans Association College Fee Waiver Program. The program is open to the dependent children and spouses of Veterans who suffered a disability or death, or who were declared missing or captured. Applicants must also be attending an accredited public institution in California. The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) offers this program for California veterans and their families. CalVet works to serve the veteran community through education, advocacy, and direct services. Eligible applicants receive a waiver for mandatory system-wide tuition and fees at any State of California Community College, California State University, or University of California campus. If you are attending a public university in California and are related to a veteran, we recommend that you check your eligibility using the CalVet College Fee Waiver Calculator. If you are eligible, we encourage you to apply!

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College & Graduate Students

Other Category: Relative of Current or Former Military Member

State: California

Next steps

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Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund
Macy’s Emergency Scholarship Fund

Offered by LNESC & Macy's

Multiple awards worth up to $500
Deadline Rolling

Are you a college student facing economic hardship? Further, are you residing in California, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, or Texas?…

Are you a college student facing economic hardship? Further, are you residing in California, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, or Texas?…

Are you a college student facing economic hardship? Further, are you residing in California, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, or Texas? If so, consider applying for Macy's Emergency Scholarship Fund! The scholarship is open to full-time university students residing in the listed states/regions who are experiencing emergency financial need. Events that will qualify students for this scholarship include the following: change in family income, loss of job, death of an immediate family member, natural disaster, eviction or home foreclosure, burglary, and fire. Each year, the scholarship awards multiple recipients up to $500 to support them during their times of need. If you're a college student in California, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, or Texas that has been impacted by an unexpected hardship affecting your education, we encourage you to apply! 

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Students

Citizenship: Permanent Residents

Minimum GPA: 3.0

Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino

Other Category: Low Income

State: California, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Texas

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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The ​Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers
The ​Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers

Offered by The ​Bill H. James Foundation

Multiple awards worth Varies
Expected deadline July 2024

The Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers is funded by The ​Bill H. James Foundation, an organization that believes that receiving…

The Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers is funded by The ​Bill H. James Foundation, an organization that believes that receiving…

The Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers is funded by The ​Bill H. James Foundation, an organization that believes that receiving the proper support and guidance can transform an already bright individual into so much more. Thus, every year, the "Bill H. James Foundation Scholarship for Aspiring African American Engineers" awards scholarships of varying amounts to African American college juniors, seniors, and graduate students in California who are pursuing a degree in engineering. If this scholarship sounds like a fit for you, keep on reading for more application details.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: College Upperclassmen & Graduate Students

Citizenship: US Citizens

Minimum GPA: 3.2

Race/Ethnicity: Black/African

Academic Interest: Engineering

State: California

Next steps

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ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship
ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship

Offered by La Unidad Latina Foundation

Multiple awards worth $2,000 - $20,000
Expected deadline July 2024

The ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship Program is intended to assist and encourage outstanding Hispanic college freshmen who plan to pursue a degree in engineering at U.…

The ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship Program is intended to assist and encourage outstanding Hispanic college freshmen who plan to pursue a degree in engineering at U.…

The ExxonMobil Engineering Scholarship Program is intended to assist and encourage outstanding Hispanic college freshmen who plan to pursue a degree in engineering at U. S. post-secondary institutions. Applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent, and plan to enroll in an accredited college or university. Applicants must reside within the following cities and surrounding areas and meet the following criteria to be considered for a scholarship: Albuquerque, New Mexico; Austin, Texas; Bayamon, Puerto Rico; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Corpus Christi, Texas; Dallas, Texas; El Paso, Texas; Houston, Texas; Kansas City, Missouri; Miami, Florida; Oxnard, California; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; San Antonio, Texas; San Diego, California; and Vancouver, Washington. If you're a Hispanic college freshman passionate about engineering, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.

Eligibility information

Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Freshmen

Citizenship: US Citizens

Minimum GPA: 3.5

Race/Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino

Academic Interest: Engineering

State: California, Colorado, Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington

Next steps

Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.

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California is the most populous state in the country and home to over 300 four-year colleges. Whether you are a born and bred Californian or a student from out of state who wants to see what all the buzz is about, California scholarships will help lighten the financial cost of education. Keep on reading to learn about the top California scholarships to help you pay for college!

How to win California scholarships

From the stunning forestry and redwoods of Northern California to the sun soaked beaches of Southern California, California is amazing! As you seek out California scholarships, keep an eye out for scholarships that embrace California’s diversity. Ultimately, use your own individuality to stand out and demonstrate how you can enrich California. 

The California scholarship scene extends beyond just traditional academic merit. Rather, California’s booming industries in technology, entertainment, and sustainability offer unique opportunities for aspiring California students. Investigate scholarships that align with your passions and career aspirations as you demonstrate your commitment to these fields and their impact on California’s sunny future. 

Additionally, California has a thriving arts scene which will allow you to discover scholarships that celebrate your creative talents. From prestigious conservatories to local theaters, California offers many opportunities for artists, performers, and creatives to thrive. Let your artistic talents shine through on your California scholarship applications! 

Scholarship application resources for California students

No matter what stage you are at in the scholarships application process, we have some helpful Scholarships360 resources. Need help writing an authentic essay about yourself? We have you covered!  Be sure to also check out our Scholarships360 guides on how to start a scholarship essay and how to end your scholarship essay for help from start to finish! 

If you are ready to surf the waves of academic achievement, California’s scholarship opportunities offer something for everyone. Ultimately, you should harness the diversity and creativity of California while letting your talents, passions, and uniqueness shine through. This will guide you towards a future as bright as the California sun! 

Learn more: The ultimate guide to finding & winning scholarships

California student loan debt snapshot

According to the Department of Education, California residents owe $141.8 billion in federal student loan debt, with student borrowers owing $37,084 on average (not including private student loans). 51.7% of student loan borrowers in California are under the age of 35. As you begin your higher education, remember that scholarships allow students to take less loans. Make sure that you apply to as many as you qualify for. Keep on reading to learn more about merit scholarships from colleges in California!

Merit scholarships at California colleges and universities

University of California – Berkeley 

  • Eligibility: California residents and AB540 eligible students entering from high school with a 4.1+ GPA; California residents and AB 540 eligible students entering UC Berkeley from a community college with a 3.5+ GPA; Continuing students with a 3.5+ GPA. Complete the FAFSA
  • Amount: $6,000
  • Deadline: New and returning students who have completed the application to UC Berkeley and the FAFSA by mid-March

University of Southern California

  • Eligibility: First-year year students enrolling in University of Southern California. Awards are made based on academic excellence, leadership, service, and talent
  • Amount: Up to full cost of tuition
  • Deadline: April 1

University of California – Los Angeles 

  • Eligibility: First-years and transfer students entering UCLA. Recipients are selected on the basis of merit-based, need-based and non-need-based monetary awards
  • Amount: $2,000+
  • Deadline: Be accepted to UCLA and complete the FAFSA by March 2

University of California – Santa Barbara 

  • Eligibility: Incoming first-years to UCSB. Recipients selected based on their application to the university
  • Amount: $5,000 per year
  • Deadline: Considered upon admission to UCSB

University of California – San Diego

  • Eligibility: First-years and transfer students entering UCSD. Have demonstrated academic and extracurricular excellence in your application to the university
  • Amount: Up to $20,000
  • Deadline: November 30 annually

Consider in-state tuition and tuition reciprocity

In-state tuition costs are generally much lower than out-of-state tuition rates, which can save students thousands of dollars in tuition costs each year. Additionally, many universities and colleges reserve scholarships and financial aid for in-state California students, which can help reduce the cost of attending college. 

Here are a few well-known California universities and their in-state vs out-of-state tuition costs:

University of California – Berkeley

  • In-state tuition: $15,444
  • Out-of-state tuition: $48, 018

University of California – Los Angeles

  • In-state tuition: $14,478
  • Out-of-state tuition: $47,052

University of California – San Diego

  • In-state tuition: $18,147
  • Out-of-state tuition: $50,721

How do you get in-state tuition?

In order to establish residency in California to qualify for in-state tuition, students must have maintained legal residence in the state for at least 12 consecutive months prior to enrollment. Then, you will have to obtain legal documentation, such as a California driver’s license, voter registration, or a lease agreement to support your residency claim. Additionally, you must cut ties with your previous state by canceling or transferring your out-of-state driver’s license, registering your vehicle in California, and changing your mailing address. 

Attending a California community college and completing 30 semester units while maintaining a physical presence in California can help in establishing residency. However, it is important to note that residency requirements may vary between California universities. Therefore, it is important to review the specific requirements of your chosen college. 

See also: Tuition-free California community colleges

Does California have tuition reciprocity? 

No, California does not have tuition reciprocity agreements with other states. Therefore, if you are an out-of-state student planning on attending a public university in California, you will typically be subjected to out-of-state tuition rates which are higher than in-state tuition rates.

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Additional California resources

Celebrate the West High School Art Competition

High school-age students in Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, or Wyoming who submit an original two-dimensional art piece informed by their experience living in the West can win $200 – $1,500

Hispanic Education Endowment Fund

Hispanic US Citizens, Permanent Residents and Dream Act/ AB 540 students who live in Orange County. HEEF awards begin at $2,500 but application also considers you for a wide range of awards that range from $1,500 to $5,000

FAFSA guide

On October 1st of every year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens nationwide. California students should complete the FAFSA to be eligible for federal student aid as well as some scholarships.

Keep on reading

Women, high school seniors and Black students can take advantage of specific scholarship opportunities. Some scholarships require essays and applications, but others are no-essay scholarships, making for a quick and easy application process. Scholarships360 is here to provide valuable college application resources and access to scholarships for students throughout your educational journey!

Frequently asked questions about California scholarships

Does California offer free college?

Yes. There are programs available to California students that award up to the full cost of tuition. Some of them are listed above, including the California Veterans Association College Fee Waiver Program and the Blue and Gold Opportunity Plan. Some universities in California offer merit and need-based scholarships that cover the full cost of tuition or attendance, such as the University of Southern California.

What are the UC Personal Insight Questions?

If you are considering applying to a University of California Campus, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, UC Davis, or UC Irvine, you’ll have to respond to four out of eight possible supplemental essay questions. These help the admissions team get a better picture of who you are and what you plan to pursue in college.

There is an art to responding to any supplemental essay question. Luckily, we can help you through it with our guide to responding to the UC Personal Insight Questions. We’ll walk you through each question and describe what the admissions officers are really looking for in your answer.

Can out-of-state students receive scholarships to attend California colleges and universities?

Yes! Out-of-state students may be eligible for some California scholarships. However, many California scholarships are reserved for California residents, so double-check the scholarship requirements.

How can I increase my chances of winning a California scholarship?

Students can increase their chances of winning California scholarships by using the uniqueness of the state of California to their advantage. They should be linking these factors to their personal interests, passions, and career ambitions. Additionally, researching and applying for multiple scholarships, meeting all eligibility criteria and submitting a strong application will help increase your chances of winning a California scholarship as well!
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