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Whether you're planning your next academic step or seeking support to continue your journey, this page is here to help you explore a wide range of scholarship opportunities. From merit-based awards to need-based assistance, you'll find resources designed to make higher education more accessible and affordable. We encourage you to review the listings, note important deadlines, and take advantage of the support available to help you succeed.
Email the College Access Program team to schedule your personalized Scholarship Support Meeting!
Best Practices for Successful Scholarship Applications
Search online databases, your college or university's Financial Aid website, and on social media for scholarships.
Start a list or spreadsheet of scholarships that you are planning to apply to and mark which applications you submitted.
Always carefully review the scholarship's terms and conditions; don't waste time on scholarships you're not eligible for or incomplete applications.
Do your research on the organization you apply to, this might give you ideas for your essay.
Schedule time in your calendar for scholarships; start early so you can ask mentors for letters of recommendation if needed.
Use an email address you can check frequently and where you notice communication about scholarships quickly.
Save your essays and use them as guides. This way you don’t have to start all over each time.
Save them in categories such as “Meaning of Education”, “My Goals”, and “Funny Story”
Reference your brag sheet
Avoid Scholarship Scams
Research the scholarship and look for contact information.
Never share your Social Security number.
Legitimate scholarships won’t ask for fees.
Learn more about avoiding scholarship and financial aid scams from the Federal Trade Commission.
Where to Find Scholarships
Exclusive Alumni Opportunities: After graduating from high school, you can join the alumni network through the GradSurvey. Fill out the form and keep an eye out for updates!
Institutional: Check with your postsecondary institution to see which opportunities they offer and which resources are available through your state.
Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Ask any future employer if they offer this benefit.
Local Community: Libraries, nonprofits, and local businesses may offer scholarships.
Online Platforms: Create an account to get personalized opportunities in your email inbox.
Tracking Tools
It is important to stay organized to start your applications early and not miss a deadline. Use whatever system works best for you:
A virtual tracking spreadsheet with columns for the scholarship name, organization, application link and deadline, award amount, etc. This can be as simple or detailed as you would like.
A free scholarship tracking app.
Pen and paper, if you prefer a low-tech approach. Mark deadlines in your calendar.
Learn more: Scholarship Tracker Tools by Cirkled In
LLAC Annual Graduation Scholarship
The LLAC Annual Graduation Scholarship is an annual, exclusive financial opportunity for graduates planning to attend a university, community college, or vocational/trade school. It’s designed to support students and alumni as they take their next steps in education and career development.
Details:
Scholarship Amount: $500 or $1,000 (decided by the school Principal)
Deadline: For application details and deadlines, contact your school counselor.
Eligibility Requirements:
GPA of 2.75 or higher
Completed one semester or six learning periods at a Learn4Life school
Graduating during the 2025–2026 school year
Letter of recommendation from a Learn4Life teacher or school counselor
English 4A Personal Statement or 500-word essay
L4L-CAP-CalKids-Flyer.pdfCalifornia Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS)
California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS)
The California Kids Investment and Development Savings Program (CalKIDS) is a children’s savings account program, administered by the ScholarShare Investment Board, an agency of the State of California. CalKIDS will provide eligible participants with college savings accounts, including seed deposits and other potential incentives, to help pay for future qualified higher education expenses.
This account starts with $500 FREE MONEY!
+ $500 for foster youth!
+ $500 for homeless youth!
Eligible grade 1-12 CA public school students automatically have a CalKIDS account created in their name. 17 to 26-year-olds can request funds to be sent directly to their postsecondary institution. Students only need to register online to get access.
School Counselors and the CAP team can provide students' Statewide Student Identifier numbers to verify eligibility and register an account.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is probably the most well-known financial support for college or university and we encourage every student to apply. The FAFSA application is used to apply for several types of financial aid, including grants, student employment, and federal student loans.
Many states and colleges set priority deadlines by which you must submit the FAFSA form to be considered for the aid programs they administer. There is also a federal deadline each academic year, click here to review the deadlines: DEADLINES
The FAFSA was recently updated; it is now shorter and includes new terms and sections School Counselors can help students with.
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