Make College More Affordable with Scholarships
Scholarships are funds that help pay for college and do not need to be repaid, helping reduce your out-of-pocket education costs. At Cal State San Bernardino, scholarships are available through the university, academic departments and outside organizations. You may qualify based on financial need, academic achievement, leadership, community involvement and personal experiences. Many scholarships recognize more than academics and value the experiences, involvement and goals you bring to campus.
How Scholarships Compare to Other Types of Financial Aid
Unlike loans, scholarships do not need to be repaid, helping you reduce college costs and graduate with less debt. While grants also typically do not require repayment, loans must be paid back with interest, and work-study provides funding through part-time employment. Scholarships can make college more affordable while recognizing your achievements, experiences and potential.
- Scholarships: Funding that does not require repayment
- Grants: Financial aid that typically does not require repayment
- Loans: Borrowed funds that must be repaid with interest
- Work-Study: Money earned through part-time employment
Types of Scholarships
Scholarships are available from a variety of sources, including CSUSB, private organizations and community groups. They may be awarded based on academics, financial need, personal background, leadership, involvement or field of study. Many scholarships also recognize your experiences, achievements and future goals.
How Scholarships Fit into Your Financial Aid Picture
Scholarships are one part of your overall financial aid package, which may also include grants, work-study, savings and loans. Combining different types of aid can help reduce your out-of-pocket college costs and make earning your degree more affordable. Understanding how scholarships and financial aid work together can help you make informed decisions about paying for college.
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“The [Presidential Academic Excellence Scholarship] was life changing. Without the scholarship, my college experience would have looked very different.”
Ashley Colstock Horn
Biology major and first-generation college student
Tips for Securing Scholarships
Applying for scholarships often takes planning, consistency and attention to detail. Starting your search early and applying for multiple opportunities can increase your chances of receiving funding. These tips can help you stay organized and make the scholarship process more manageable:
- Take time to write thoughtful applications
- Follow instructions carefully
- Ensure your materials are complete and submitted on time
FAQs for Scholarships
Log in to the CSUSB Scholarship Portal through your MyCoyote Student Portal and complete the scholarship application. Be sure to submit any required materials before the deadline and check your CSUSB email for updates.
CSUSB students can apply for scholarships offered through the university, academic colleges and departments, campus programs, and generous donors. Students are also encouraged to explore scholarships from outside organizations and opportunities specifically designed for international students. Additional opportunities may be available through the My Opportunities section of the CSUSB Scholarship Portal, which matches students with scholarships based on their profile and eligibility.
No. While some scholarships consider academic achievement, many also award funding based on factors such as financial need, leadership, community service, work experience, talents, career interests, and personal experiences.
Submit a copy of your scholarship award notice to the CSUSB Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. If the scholarship provider is sending funds directly to the university, have payments mailed to Student Financial Services and include your name and Coyote ID number to ensure the funds are credited to your student account.
Not necessarily. Scholarship eligibility varies by award, and many CSUSB scholarships are open to students regardless of California residency or citizenship status.
