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Do I need a perfect GPA to receive a scholarship?

No! Scholarships have different GPA requirements. While some recognize academic achievement, others consider financial need, educational goals, major, community involvement, and other factors.

Many scholarships require a minimum GPA of 2.0, while others have higher GPA requirements.

Should I apply even if I don't think I'll qualify?

Absolutely! We encourage all eligible students to apply. There are many scholarships available, each with different eligibility requirements. You may qualify for scholarships you didn't know existed.

Do I need to apply separately for each scholarship?

Not necessarily! Start by completing the scholarship application in AwardSpring.

Based on your responses and college data, AwardSpring will automatically identify scholarships that may be a match for you. Some scholarships may require additional questions, essays, or other materials before your application is considered complete.

Can I apply if I'm transferring to a four-year college or university?

Yes! Many scholarships support students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university for the 2027–2028 academic year.

Some scholarships are specifically for transferring students, while others are available only to students continuing at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½. Be sure to review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship.

Can I apply if I'm continuing at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½?

Yes! Many scholarships are available to students who plan to continue their education at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ during the 2027–2028 academic year.

Do I need to complete the FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA)?

Not for every scholarship. However, if you want to be considered for scholarships based on financial need, you must have a valid 2026–2027 FAFSA or CADAA on file with ÃØÉ«´«Ã½.

Your financial aid information helps determine your eligibility for need-based scholarships.

Learn more about applying for FAFSA or CADAA.

How are scholarship recipients selected?

After the application deadline, eligible applications are reviewed by scholarship selection committees, which may include ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ faculty, classified staff, administrators, and community members.

Depending on the scholarship, selection criteria may include:

• Quality and thoughtfulness of your application essays
• Letters of recommendation
• How closely you meet the scholarship's specific eligibility criteria
• Academic achievement and educational goals
• Community involvement, leadership, or personal experiences
• Demonstrated financial need, when applicable

Each scholarship has its own eligibility and selection criteria. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that you will receive a scholarship.

When will I find out if I received a scholarship?

Scholarship notifications are expected to be sent in April 2027.

Please regularly check:

• Your ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ student email
• Your AwardSpring account for updates and instructions

Be sure to check your spam or junk folder so you don't miss important notifications.

What happens if I'm selected to receive a scholarship?

Congratulations! If you are selected, you will receive instructions through AwardSpring explaining how to accept your scholarship and complete any required follow-up steps.

You will be asked to:

• Formally accept your scholarship award
• Submit a thank-you message to your scholarship donor
• Confirm your attendance at the Scholarship Celebration Luncheon

• Confirm if you plan to continue enrollment at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ for the 2027–2028 academic year or transfer to a four-year university or college for the 2027-2028 academic year.

• Provide information about your transfer college or university, if applicable

Being selected for a scholarship does not guarantee payment. You must complete all required acceptance steps and continue to meet your scholarship's eligibility requirements before funds can be disbursed.

What happens if I am not selected for a scholarship?

We understand that not receiving a scholarship can be disappointing. Scholarship opportunities are competitive, and unfortunately, not every eligible applicant will receive an award. We encourage you to continue exploring other scholarship opportunities and apply again in future application cycles if you remain eligible.

Am I required to attend the Scholarship Celebration?

Yes! All scholarship recipients are required to attend the Scholarship Celebration. This special event is an opportunity to celebrate your achievements, enjoy a complimentary breakfast and lunch, and potentially meet the generous donor(s) who made your scholarship possible.

At the celebration, you will receive your scholarship certificate and award letter, which outlines important eligibility requirements and instructions for receiving your scholarship funds.

We understand that some students may have work, class commitments, or other family obligations that prevent them from attending. If you are unable to attend, please contact Nicole Aguinaldo as soon as possible at [email protected] or (408) 741-4671 to discuss alternative arrangements for receiving your award materials.

Don't worry! If you are unable to attend, your scholarship will not be affected. You will still receive your scholarship as long as you meet the award's eligibility requirements.

When will I receive my scholarship funds?

Students are selected for scholarships in the spring, but funds are typically disbursed during the Fall term.

Before payment, the Foundation and College will verify that you continue to meet your scholarship's eligibility requirements. These may include enrollment status, number of units, major, and transfer status.

Some scholarships may have different payment schedules or additional requirements.

How will I receive my scholarship funds?

Scholarship funds are processed through the College's Financial Aid Office rather than paid directly by the Foundation to students.

If you are continuing at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½, your scholarship will be processed through ÃØÉ«´«Ã½. Scholarship disbursements will be sent the first week of the semester. Funds will be applied toward any outstanding balance; any remaining amount will be refunded to you through BankMobile Disbursements.

Learn more about how to set up your refund selection through BankMobile.

For students transferring to another college or university, a scholarship check will be mailed directly to your transfer school. Scholarship checks are typically mailed by mid-August. After your transfer school receives and processes the scholarship check, they will disburse the scholarship funds to you. If you have questions about your school’s financial aid award disbursement process, please contact them directly

What happens if my major, enrollment, or transfer plans change?

We understand that academic plans can change!

However, scholarships are awarded based on the information you provide in your application. Changes to your major, enrollment, number of units, or transfer plans could affect your eligibility.

For example, if you receive a scholarship specifically for transferring students but decide to continue at ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ instead, you may no longer qualify for that scholarship.

If your academic plans or eligibility information changes, please contact Nicole Aguinaldo at [email protected] as soon as possible.

Depending on your circumstances and the scholarship's requirements, you may still be eligible to receive your award.

Will receiving a Foundation scholarship affect my financial aid?

Foundation scholarships are intended to provide additional financial support for your education.

In most cases, your scholarship can be added to your existing financial aid. However, your total financial assistance cannot exceed your Cost of Attendance (COA), as determined by the Financial Aid Office.

If your scholarship causes your total financial aid to exceed your Cost of Attendance (COA), the Financial Aid Office may need to adjust other forms of aid, such as loans or Federal Work-Study. Alternatively, you can submit a request to increase your COA by completing the Cost of Attendance Adjustment Form. This form allows you to identify additional expenses not already covered, such as childcare, special licensing related to your major, study abroad costs, or the replacement of a broken laptop or computer. By doing this, you may be able to receive the full amount of your scholarship without having to reduce any other types of aid.

For questions about how scholarships may affect your financial aid, contact the ÃØÉ«´«Ã½ Financial Aid Office.