Are you a high school student deciding where to go to college? Or are you a college student currently attending a university in California? This is just for you! Join us as we delve into the world of California scholarships, exploring the resources available to help you achieve your academic goals.
$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 5
Deadline
This scholarship is available for students who are enrolled at or planning to enroll at Cal-Poly, San Luis Obispo or Alan Hancock Community College. Applicants must have been employed, or have a parent or legal guardian employed as a vineyard worker during the 2017 or 2018 agricultural season.
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$12,000
Award Amount
8
Awards
Mar 10
Deadline
This award is available for self-identified gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and queer students attending or planning to attend San Francisco State University, Stanford University, or University of California at Berkeley. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher, enroll full time, and demonstrate potential to become positive role models for LGBTQ people.
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$8,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 10
Deadline
This award is available for current juniors and seniors attending one of the following universities: California State University, East Bay; San Francisco State University; San Jose State University; Sonoma State University or University of California, Berkeley. The applicant must have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher and be majoring in social sciences, human services, health-related fields or public service.
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$9,500
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 12
Deadline
This scholarship is available for U.S. high school seniors and current/returning college students who have at least two years of academic college-level work yet to complete. Students must have a desire and intention to pursue a professional career in the areas of aviation management, aeronautics, aerospace engineering, aeronautical mechanics and electronics, or other related fields.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
The Erin Aaberg Givans Memorial Scholarship is available for female graduate students who are majoring in a degree related to public administration, healthcare administration, or healthcare policy. Applicants must attend a college or university in California and must plan to pursue a related career within the state.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
The The Paulsen Family Scholarship is provided to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student in Sutter County or Colusa County, California. Applicants must be majoring in or planning to major in agriculture.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
The Roy and Cynthia Kroener Family Scholarship is provided annually to high school seniors in Davis, CA who have a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
The Nadine Dimick Nursing Scholarship is available for undergraduate nursing students in the following California counties: Sacramento, Eldorado, Yolo, or Placer.
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$5,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
This scholarship is available for high school seniors from a high school in Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, Shasta, Yuba, Sutter, Colusa, or Butte Counties. Applicants must plan to major in public affairs, public administration, political science, or another field related to government.
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$3,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 12
Deadline
The Benny Goodman Scholarship is available for students at University of California or California State University who are majoring in music. Preference will be given to students who play clarinet. Click here to learn more and register to apply today!
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$750
Award Amount
3
Awards
Mar 15
Deadline
This scholarship is available for high school seniors residing in Placer County, California. Applicants must identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or must demonstrate a history as a straight ally dedicated to equality and advancing LGBT rights.
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$1,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Bill Clapper Memorial Scholarship is available for members of Monterey High School's various school musical ensambles. Students must have a 3.0 GPA and must plan to major in music. Click here to learn more and to sign up, today!
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Carmel High School Class of 1952 Scholarship is available for graduating high school seniors at Carmel High School in Carmel, California. Applicants must have unmet financial need and a history of using their talents and skills to improve the surrounding community.
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$3,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Carmel Valley Women's Club Foundation Scholarship is available for women in Carmel Valley, California. Applicants must be graduating high school seniors or returning to school after an extended break. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$1,250
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The David L. Ferguson Scholarship is available for graduating seniors at Monterey High School who demonstrate academic potential and leadership. Click here to learn more and apply today!
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$3,000
Award Amount
3
Awards
Mar 15
Deadline
The Dr. Gladys M. Olvis Scholarship is available for residents of Monterey County, California who have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and are planning to major in a heathcare or medical field other than psychology. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$2,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Hausdorf Family Scholarship is available for students graduating from Monterey County Public High Schools. Applicants must show involvement in organized musical groups and must plan to major in music.
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Hugo and Dolores Tottino Family Scholarship is available for graduating seniors at North Monterey County High School. Applicants must have unmet financial need and must demonstrate good character. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$2,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The James Bliss and Annette Sward Forestry and Nursing Scholarship is available for high school seniors and undergraduates in Monterey, San Benito or Santa Cruz counties of CA. Applicants must be majoring in or planning to major in fire science, forestry, nursing, and/or paramedic/EMT training.
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$4,000
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Jess Harrison Family Scholarship is available for graduating high school seniors at King City High School. Applicants must also have attended San Ardo Elementary School or must currently live in the San Ardo area.
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Kier Memorial Scholarship is available for graduating seniors at Pacific Grove High School who have a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must plan to major in art or education. Click here to learn more and apply today!
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$2,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Libby Olver Scholarship is available for women who are majoring in a STEM field at CSU Monterey Bay. Click here to learn more and apply today!
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$2,000
Award Amount
2
Awards
Mar 15
Deadline
The Monica Abbott Scholarship is available for female students in California who demonstrate athletic achievement, leadership, and academic merit. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$400
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The Robert Hattori Nakamura Memorial Scholarship is available for graduating seniors at Carmel High School in Carmel, CA. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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$1,500
Award Amount
1
Award
Mar 15
Deadline
The San Ardo Fund for Education Scholarship is available for graduating high school seniors who reside in San Ardo, California. Click here to learn more and to apply today!
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EXPERT INSIGHT
The California Ban on Scholarship Displacement Act is a game-changer for students receiving private scholarships. Rather than having those awards inadvertently reduce institutional financial aid, the law ensures private scholarships truly supplement the support package. This allows students with financial need to maximize their funding sources without penalty. The act opens up new possibilities for pursuing higher education goals without being deterred by cost concerns. Students can feel empowered to actively seek out and accept private scholarships on top of their existing aid package, amplifying their ability to afford the education pathway of their choice. It's an incredibly positive step that puts more money directly into the hands of California's college-bound students who need it most.
-JP Novin (BA, MBA, EdD)
With over 750 institutions spread across the state, including 339 colleges and universities, 170 private for-profit trade schools, and 116 accredited community colleges, California offers an incredible amount of academic opportunities.
In 2023, California had over 2.1 million undergraduate students, establishing itself as the leader in higher education enrollment in the United States. Whether you aspire to study engineering, the arts, business, or any other field, California’s educational landscape caters to a multitude of interests and ambitions.
However, we know that pursuing higher education can present financial challenges, especially in a state that’s known to have a high cost of living. That’s where scholarships come in. From merit-based scholarships rewarding academic achievement to need-based assistance, different institutions provide a range of funding opportunities to support your educational endeavors.
Let’s explore how you can pursue higher education in the Golden State!
Understanding Scholarships in California
Before we take a look at scholarships in California, let’s talk about how much tuition costs so you understand why scholarships are so essential for California college students.
If you’re attending one of the 23 California State Universities (CSU), “all students enrolled at a CSU campus pay the same systemwide tuition fee, which is currently $5,742 per academic year for undergraduate students enrolling in more than six units per term and $3,330 for undergraduates enrolling in six or fewer units.” On top of that, every CSU campus also has mandatory fees that all students must pay.
For the 2022–2023 academic year, the average cost of tuition and fees at private colleges in California was $39,400. At public colleges, it was about $10,900 for in-state residents and $28,200 for out-of-state residents. Tuition, housing, and campus fees will vary depending on where you go to college. For 2022–2023, room and board at private colleges in California cost about $14,000, and about $12,000 at public colleges.
So now that you know the numbers we’re working with, let’s talk about how to find scholarships!
How Do You Find California Scholarships?
Finding California scholarships may seem like a daunting task, but with strategic approaches and resourcefulness, you can discover numerous opportunities to support your educational journey in the Golden State. Here are some effective strategies to help you uncover scholarships tailored to your needs and aspirations:
Tip #1: Utilize Scholarship Search Engines:
Take advantage of online scholarship search engines such as our
Scholarship Match Tool. This allows you to filter scholarships based on information specific to you.
Tip #2: Check with Educational Institutions:
Explore scholarship opportunities offered by the colleges, universities, and trade schools you are interested in attending. Many institutions have dedicated scholarship programs for incoming students based on academic merit, financial need, or specific areas of study. Visit the financial aid or scholarship office website of each institution for detailed information.
Tip #3: Research State and Local Scholarships:
California offers various state-funded scholarship programs, including the Cal Grant program, which provides financial aid to eligible California residents pursuing higher education. Additionally, check with local organizations, businesses, and community foundations in your area for scholarships specific to your city or region.
Tip #4: Review Professional Associations and Organizations:
Investigate scholarships offered by professional associations, industry organizations, and nonprofit foundations related to your intended field of study or career path. These organizations often provide financial support to students pursuing degrees or certifications in specific fields.
Tip #5: Tap into Ethnic and Cultural Resources:
Explore scholarships available to students from diverse ethnic or cultural backgrounds. Many organizations offer scholarships to support underrepresented
minority students in pursuing higher education. For example, the Asian Pacific Community Fund offers scholarships to Asian and Pacific Islander American students in California who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement.
Tip #6: Attend Scholarship Fairs and Workshops:
Keep an eye out for scholarship fairs, workshops, and information sessions hosted by educational institutions, community organizations, or scholarship providers. These events provide valuable opportunities to learn about available scholarships, network with representatives, and receive guidance on the application process.
Tip #7: Stay Organized and Persistent:
Create a spreadsheet or document to track scholarship opportunities, deadlines, and application requirements. Stay organized and set aside dedicated time each week to search for and apply for scholarships. Be persistent in your efforts, as the process may require patience and perseverance to secure funding for your education.
How Do I Apply for Scholarships in California?
If you plan to attend an accredited college in California, you may qualify for scholarships based on financial need or merit. Besides being a state resident, your grades, college major, gender, and ethnicity may help you earn California scholarships.
- Scholarships for High School Students in California. Some awards may be for students who graduated from a specific high school district. California high school scholarships may also be used at community colleges or four-year schools.
- State Grants and Scholarships. If you’re a state resident, you may qualify for CA state financial aid. These tend to be used at state schools that partner with these programs.
- Field of Study. Many students in CA qualify for scholarships based on their major. For example, the Dr. James L. Hutchinson and Evelyn Ribbs Hutchinson Medical School Scholarship. It is for high school grads in San Mateo County or Santa Clara County. Also, you must be a college senior. You also must be currently enrolled full-time in an accredited medical school program.
- Where You Live. There are scholarships for in-state and out-of-state students in California. You may have to be a resident in a certain county such as San Francisco Bay Area.
- Academic Achievement. Providers may require a minimum GPA and SAT/ACT test scores. Community service and leadership experience may also be required.
- Financial Need. Making a college degree more affordable in CA is what these scholarships are about. Providers may assess your family income by looking at your FAFSA.
- Gender and Ethnicity. Find college scholarships for Hispanic, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, African American, and first-generation Americans.
Merit-Based Scholarships in California
Merit-based scholarships in California recognize students for their outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement within the state. These scholarships are highly competitive and are awarded based on merit rather than financial need.
Here are some notable examples of merit-based scholarships available exclusively in California:
- The University of California Regents Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to incoming freshmen at any of the nine University of California campuses. Recipients are chosen based on their exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and contributions to their communities. The Regents’ Scholarship covers full tuition and fees for four years of undergraduate study.
- The California State University (CSU) Presidential Scholarship: The CSU Presidential Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving incoming freshmen at any of the 23 campuses in the California State University system. Recipients are selected based on their academic excellence, leadership abilities, and commitment to community service. The scholarship covers full tuition and fees for four years of undergraduate study.
Scholarships for High School Students in California
High school students in California have access to scholarships to support their academic pursuits and future endeavors. These scholarships are specifically tailored to recognize the achievements and potential of high school students within the state.
Here are some notable examples of scholarships available exclusively to high school students in California:
- The California Scholarship Federation (CSF) Scholarships: The CSF offers scholarships to high-achieving high school seniors who are members of the California Scholarship Federation. Recipients are selected based on their academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and community service. The CSF scholarships provide financial assistance to support students’ college education.
- The California Association of Student Councils (CASC) Scholarships: The CASC awards scholarships to outstanding high school student leaders in California who have demonstrated leadership skills, initiative, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and communities. These scholarships recognize students’ contributions to student government, community service, and campus activities.
These scholarships represent just a selection of the opportunities available to high school students in specific regions in California:
- The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Scholarships: LAUSD offers a range of scholarships to graduating high school seniors within the district. These scholarships may be awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, community service, or specific criteria established by individual schools or organizations within the district.
- The Silicon Valley Community Foundation (SVCF) Scholarships: SVCF offers scholarships to high school students in the Silicon Valley region of California, supporting students’ educational goals and aspirations. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or awarded to students pursuing specific fields of study or career paths.
Scholarships for High School Seniors in California
If you’re a high school senior, you’re on the brink of an exciting chapter: college. Fortunately, a variety of scholarships are designed specifically to support you during this pivotal time. Let’s explore some notable examples available exclusively to high school seniors in California:
- The California State PTA Scholarship Program: Sponsored by the California State Parent Teacher Association (PTA), this scholarship program supports graduating high school seniors across the state. Seniors are selected based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities. The PTA scholarships provide financial assistance to help seniors pursue higher education in California.
- The California Association of Directors of Activities (CADA) Leadership Scholarship: Sponsored by CADA, this scholarship honors high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and made significant contributions to their school’s activities and events. Recipients are selected based on their leadership roles, impact on campus culture, and commitment to fostering a positive school environment.
Scholarships for College Students in California
When it comes to scholarships for college students in California, several popular options attract a large number of applicants each year. These scholarships are highly sought after and offer significant financial support to students pursuing higher education in the state. Here are some examples:
- The Cal Grant Program: The Cal Grant program is one of the most well-known and widely utilized financial aid programs in California. It provides need-based grants to eligible California residents attending qualifying colleges and universities in the state. Cal Grants cover tuition and some fees, making them a valuable resource for many college students in California.
- The California Chafee Grant for Foster Youth: This grant provides financial assistance to current or former foster youth who are enrolled in college or vocational school. Eligible students can receive up to $5,000 per year to help cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, and living expenses while pursuing their education in California.
- The California Dream Act Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically for undocumented students who qualify for in-state tuition under the California Dream Act. The scholarship, funded by the state of California, provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing higher education at any accredited institution in California.
- The Californians for Making College Affordable Scholarship: This scholarship, sponsored by the California Student Aid Commission, is awarded to California high school seniors who demonstrate financial need and academic promise. Recipients receive financial assistance to cover educational expenses at eligible colleges and universities in California.
Scholarships for Graduate Students in California
Many California graduate students may find scholarships to use when pursuing a master’s, PhD, or professional degree in the state. If you’re attending one of the 23 California State Universities (CSU), “in a graduate or another postbaccalaureate program” you can expect to “pay a tuition fee of $7,176 for more than six units and $4,164 for six or fewer units.”
According to the Education Data Initiative, “The cost of a Master’s degree typically ranges between $56,000 and $75,000 depending on the school, the major, and the length of the program.” As a result, saving money on this next part of higher education may make your graduate studies affordable and support your career plans.
Grad school may have awards for niche fields. Nursing students may find grad school scholarships in California. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) offers awards at partner grad schools.
California State University Sacramento is one. The Polly Bednash Scholarship of $5,000 goes to outstanding nurses. Recipients may use the funds to help pay for a master’s or doctoral program at AACN member schools.
Grants for Students in California
Grants can often be essential for offsetting the cost of higher education in California since they offer vital financial support without the burden of repayment. The Cal Grant Program leads the charge, providing need-based aid to eligible students at state-approved institutions.
Administered by the California Student Aid Commission, various grant programs cater to diverse student populations, including undocumented students, foster youth, and veterans. Federal Pell Grants also play a crucial role, in assisting undergraduates with financial needs.
The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is another program that aids undergraduates with exceptional financial needs. Additionally, colleges and universities in California often provide institutional grants based on academic achievement or financial need.
California Scholarships for Out-of-State Students
California’s allure as a destination for higher education draws students from across the country. California boasts a renowned reputation for innovation and academic excellence, with prestigious universities and colleges renowned for their cutting-edge research, world-class faculty, and dynamic learning environments. Additionally, the state’s diverse cultural landscape, picturesque scenery, and vibrant communities offer a rich tapestry of experiences for students seeking personal and academic growth.
However, despite these educational and professional opportunities, out-of-state students may face financial barriers when considering tuition and living expenses. To alleviate these concerns, consider looking into colleges that offer non-resident and out-of-state scholarships.
Some examples include The UC Berkeley Achievement Award for Out-of-State Students, The UCLA Chancellor’s Blue and Gold Scholarship for Out-of-State Students, The Cal Poly SLO Non-Resident Scholarship, The USC Presidential Scholarship for Out-of-State Students, and The Pepperdine University Non-Resident Scholarship.
What California Colleges Provide Full-Ride Scholarships?
Securing a full-ride scholarship can alleviate the financial burden of higher education, covering tuition, fees, room, board, and sometimes even additional expenses. While full-ride scholarships are competitive, several California colleges offer such prestigious awards to exceptional students. Let’s explore some of the California colleges known for providing full-ride scholarships:
Stanford University:
Stanford University is renowned for its generous financial aid program, which meets the demonstrated financial need of admitted students. Through a combination of scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities, Stanford ensures that students from all backgrounds can afford to attend.
University of Southern California (USC):
USC offers the Mork Family Scholarship which can be up to $56,225 in financial assistance per year. Scholarships are renewable for eight semesters of enrollment. The scholarship includes full tuition. Along with that, the recipient gets housing and other living expenses. The total dollars awarded for this scholarship is $225,000.
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA):
UCLA’s Stamps Scholarship program provides full tuition, room, board, and a stipend for outstanding students. Recipients of the Stamps Scholarship demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and service. The scholarship covers all expenses for four years of undergraduate study.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech):
Caltech offers the Caltech Scholarship, which covers tuition, fees, room, and board for all four years of undergraduate study. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.
University of California, Berkeley:
UC Berkeley’s Regents’ and Chancellor’s Scholarships provide full tuition, fees, room, board, and a stipend for outstanding incoming freshmen. Recipients are chosen based on academic achievement, leadership, and contributions to their communities.
10 Scholarships in California You Should Apply For
There are a wealth of California scholarships to apply for in 2024 including:
- Banatao Filipino American Education Fund Scholarship
- CA Teachers Association Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Scholarship
- CTA Scholarship For Dependent Children
- Cal Grant B Competitive Award
- Cal Grant A Entitlement Award
- California Farm Bureau Scholarship
- Central California Asian Pacific Women Scholarships
- ACWA Scholarship
- AIST San Francisco Member Chapter Scholarship
- Northern California Asian Peace Officer’s Association Scholarship
When searching for scholarships in California, it’s also worth exploring beyond the conventional options to discover some interesting opportunities tailored to specific interests and backgrounds. Here are some examples of scholarships that offer a unique twist and might just be a perfect fit for you:
- The California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who have a passion for agriculture and a commitment to promoting agricultural education in their communities. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement in agriculture-related activities, and an essay detailing their future goals in the field of agriculture.
- The California Water Service Group Scholarship: This scholarship supports high school seniors who plan to pursue degrees in fields related to water resources management, environmental science, or engineering. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and demonstrated interest in addressing water-related challenges.
- The California Thoroughbred Breeders Association (CTBA) Scholarship: Sponsored by the CTBA, this scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who have a passion for the horse racing industry and plan to pursue careers in fields such as equine science, veterinary medicine, or business administration related to the Thoroughbred industry.
Our Scholarships
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$1,500 – I Have a Dream
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$10,000 – Unigo $10K Award
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$1,500 – Sweet and Simple
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$2,500 – Superpower
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$3,000 – All About Education
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$1,500 – Fifth Month Scholarship
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$1,500 – Do-Over
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$1,500 – Flavor of the Month
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$1,500 – Make Me Laugh
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$1,500 – Shout It Out
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$2,000 – Zombie Apocalypse
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$5,000 – Education Matters
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$1,500 – Top Ten List