Every year, a diverse population of students can access quality education courtesy of California State University scholarships. Whether it’s through a merit-based scholarship or a need-based scholarship, students get the rare opportunity to overcome obstacles standing in the way of their academic dreams.
More so, these California State University scholarships help them to unlock greater opportunities for their academics and careers. Here, you will discover available funding options for CSU students and a step-by-step application guide.
About California State University
California State University is the largest public university system in the United States. It has 23 campuses and boasts over 447,000 students and 44,000 employees.
The university stands out due to the quality of its educational programs. Students benefit from superior teaching across different fields and study levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral degrees.
Every year, the school offers scholarships to outstanding students. These awards are funded by both internal and external donors.
List of California State University Scholarships
Gregson Bautzer Scholarship
In 1991, Mrs. Nichola Bautzer established a funding program to assist graduates of the California State University Academy of Mathematics and Science seeking to advance their education. However, they can only access this award as freshmen in a new degree program at one of CSU’s campuses. The scholarship is worth $3,000
Eligibility criteria
- Demonstrable academic excellence and financial need
- Registered for a full-time undergraduate program
- Scholars must send a note of appreciation to Mrs. Nichola Bautzer
- Must be first-year students
Fly Fishers Club of Orange County Richard Fanning Marine Studies Scholarship
This scholarship was created in memory of Richard Fanning, an avid fisherman. It’s dedicated to supporting students pursuing marine-related programs and passionate about the conservation of fisheries.
Requirements
- Enrolled as a CSU student
- Pursuing a full-time or part-time degree in a marine-related field
- Interested in community service in the fisheries biology field
Award amount: $3,000
Howard C. Christiansen Endowed Scholarship Fund
Founded in 2016, the Howard C. Christiansen scholarship supports both graduate and undergraduate students studying engineering. It is valued at $5,000.
Criteria
- Outstanding academic performance with a GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0
- Proof of financial need cleared by the financial office
- Enrolled in a full-time engineering program at the CSU campus
Also Read: 2025 Swedish Institute scholarships for international students
Nathaniel R. and Valerie Dumont Scholarship
This is one of the few California State University Scholarships that focuses on students with physical or visual impairments. Selected candidates will receive $5,000.
Minimum criteria
- Minimum of 2.8 GPA on a scale of 4.0
- Preference will be given to students with impairments
- Verification and medical report from a licensed physician
- Enrolled for a full-time undergraduate program at any of CSU campuses
Richard K. Leffingwell Scholarship
This award aims to support the next generation of students who can make useful contributions to the public. Eligibility will be based on academic merit and interest in public service.
Eligibility criteria
- Interested in nonprofit or public service
- Full-time graduate student at CSU
- Minimum of 2.75 GPA on a scale of 4.0
- Pursuing a degree in business, economics, or fields useful to public service
Award value: $3,500
How to apply
- Visit the financial aid office at your campus and create an FSA ID. Prepare a 300-word personal statement outlining your experiences that have shaped you and how the scholarship will impact your career. Also, attach two letters of recommendation and proof of academic excellence.
- Reach out to the financial aid office for the deadlines and ensure you submit on time.
Frequently Asked Questions on California State University Scholarships
Can a student be awarded multiple scholarships?
Yes. Outstanding students may be awarded more than one scholarship at California State University.
Is it possible to apply for scholarships for every new academic session?
Except for final-year students, the university encourages students to apply for fresh scholarships for the current academic year.
Can a student’s scholarship be revoked at the California State University?
Yes. Funding may be revoked if students fail to maintain their eligibility criteria or do not submit a thank you note to donors before the deadline.