Scholarships

Applications are open from October 1st to February 1st each academic year. Apply at https://kccd.academicworks.com/users/sign_in

No! More than 70% of our scholarships are not need-based. That means, you don't need to have completed a FAFSA or Dream Act application to qualify. However, to be selected for any need-based scholarships, you must have completed a financial aid application. To increase what scholarships can be made available to you, it is wise to complete your FAFSA or Dream Act application before (or soon after) you apply for scholarships.

No! While some scholarships do have high GPA minimums, many of our scholarships require just a 2.0 or higher. However, we do encourage you to make use of all services on campus to improve your grades and give yourself the best chance of receiving scholarships. Tip: If your GPA is on the lower end, put more effort into your personal statement and be sure to mention your commitment to improving your academics.

No! You are only required to enroll at least half-time (6 - 8.5 units) to receive full payment, unless the scholarship criteria specifically states that you must be in a certain number of units (i.e.,  full-time:12 or more units). Please read the scholarship description carefully for enrollment requirements.

YES! Up until the scholarship deadline, you can go back to academic works and make changes to your General Application or Recommended Scholarship applications.

Award notifications generally go out early April. If you were selected for a scholarship, you will be notified via email. At this time, we do not notify students who didn't receive a scholarship. If you do not hear from us before the end of the school year, unfortunately you were not selected for a scholarship. We encourage you to apply again next year.

If you received a “scholarship” that money will be paid to you for the upcoming school year in two installments (unless stated otherwise), half in Fall and half in Spring. If you were selected for an “award”, those funds will be paid out during the Spring semester of the current year.

First, make sure it's not too soon. Remember, the first payment for scholarships won't go out until the upcoming Fall semester. Also know that if you owe money to the school, your scholarship will be applied to that bill first, before the rest is sent to you. If you still feel that your scholarship was not received, please contact the financial aid office to get help.

First, great job applying! Please know that scholarships are very competitive so even great students don't get chosen. The key is to KEEP IMPROVING and KEEP APPLYING! Take a closer look at your academics, community/campus engagement, and essays. If your grades could use some improvement, make use of the services on campus to bring your grades up. If your grades are good but you aren't very involved on campus or in your community, consider joining a club or look for other opportunities to get involved. If writing is not your strength, put more time into your personal statements to make them shine. Visit the Writing Center to hone your skills. 

First and foremost, use someone who knows you as a student! Don't leave your reference wondering who you are. Be sure to discuss your need for a reference before you add their email to your application. If you aren't sure who to use, start a conversation with your professor or favorite student services provider and see if they would be willing to submit a reference for you. Avoid asking family members or friends to provide references (Sorry, Grandma).

Outside scholarships can be found through our External Opportunities Listings. Other search options are mentioned under the Outside Scholarships section on this page. Use caution when providing your personal information online and trust your gut if something seems strange. You never have to pay to apply for a scholarship, nor should you be asked for private information like Social Security numbers or Bank Account information. When in doubt, move on and don't submit.

Be sure to let the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships know if you expect to receive an outside scholarship as it must be factored into your total award package. You can bring the check into the Financial Aid Office to be processed. Some outside scholarship donors will send the check directly to BC. In that case, please have them send it to: Bakersfield College Foundation, 1801 Panorama Dr. Bakersfield, CA 93305