Merit Award Scholarship Program

 

 

Schools of Humanities & Social Sciences and Natural Sciences & Mathematics

What is the Merit Award Scholars Program?
Founded in 1991, the Merit  Award Scholars Program provides $5,000 scholarships to graduates of Kern County high schools.  Awards are paid over four years: first year $1,000; second year $1,100; third year $1,300, and fourth year $1,600.  We currently have 17 Merit Award Scholars majoring in disciplines ranging from biology to philosophy. The program is funded through the generosity of private donors.

Why should I apply?
If you are an outstanding student and would like to be recognized for your academic achievement, you should apply for a Merit Award Scholarship.  While financial need is considered in the award of most scholarships, the selection of Merit Award Scholars is based entirely on academic achievement.  In addition, Merit Award Scholars have the opportunity to engage in research, receive faculty mentoring, and participate in the  Personalized Honors Program.

What are the eligibility criteria?
To be considered for a Merit Award Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:
•   Must be a first-time college freshman;
•   Have a minimum GPA of 3.8;
•   A minimum SAT score of 1150 (Critical Reading & Math) or ACT score of 26;
•   Declare a major in a discipline within the School of Humanities & Social Sciences
    or the School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics (see list at right)
•   Maintain an annual CSUB cumulative GPA of 3.3;
•   Participate in Honors Seminars;
•   Commit to completion of a degree within four years.

How do I apply?
Applications for Fall 2009 are available on this website and will be accepted from January 1 through  March 19, 2010. In addition to the completed application, you must submit by mail two faculty recommendations, official high school transcripts, and copies of  your SAT or  ACT scores.  If you meet the minimum requirements, your application will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of scholarship donors, university faculty, and advisory board members. Recipients will be announced in April 2010.

Whom do I talk to if I have questions?
If you have questions about the Merit Award Scholars Program, please contact Lori Lowrimore at 661-654-2213 or llowrimore@csub.edu.

  California State University, Bakersfield
seal

9001 Stockdale Highway
Dorothy Donahoe Hall
Room B102
Bakersfield, CA 93311-1099
Phone:  661-654-2213
FAX:  661-654-2132
E-Mail: llowrimore@csub.edu

Eligible Majors

Anthropology
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Communications
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
English
Geology
History
Liberal Studies
Mathematics
Music
Natural Sciences
Nursing
Philosophy
Physics
Political Science
Pre-Engineering
Pre-Law
Pre-Medical
Pre-Veterinary
Psychology
Religious Studies
Sociology
Spanish
Theatre

Links

Application Materials
•  Application Form
 Personal Statement
•  Faculty Recommendation Form

Current Students & Donors