How to Apply

Open the Door to Your Future

Open the Door to Your Future

A scholarship from Bay Scholars is based on need + merit. We are looking for exceptional individuals who simply need someone to open the door to a better education.

How to Apply

Open the Door to Your Future

Open the Door to Your Future

A scholarship from Bay Scholars is based on need + merit. We are looking for exceptional individuals who simply need someone to open the door to a better education.

How to Apply

Open the Door to Your Future

Open the Door to Your Future

A scholarship from Bay Scholars is based on need + merit. We are looking for exceptional individuals who simply need someone to open the door to a better education.

Who becomes a Bay Scholar?

While strong academics matter, it’s not just about grades. We look for future leaders — young people whose character, perseverance, and desire to serve set them apart. Bay Scholars stand out for their:

Kindness

caring for those around them

Generosity

giving back and serving others

Leadership

taking initiative and inspiring others

Maturity

showing responsibility and sound judgement

Motivation

pursuing learning with drive and persistence

Curiosity

desire to ask questions and explore new ideas

These qualities reflect the spirit of a Bay Scholar — a student ready to learn, lead, and create positive change in the world.

 Application Process

Important Dates to Note

Online applications available: September 5, 2025

Application & required forms/materials due: February 6, 2026

Scholarship recipients notified: after March 23, 2026

Apply Online by February 6th, 2026

Send Us Your Financial Documents

Please scan then email your income verification for all adults in the household (e.g., federal tax return or other current income statements such as child support, SSI, disability, foster care, etc.). Documents can be emailed to kaelah@bayscholars.org

Income Eligibility Guidelines
2 Family Members = $39,000     5 Family Members = $70,000
3 Family Members = $49,000     6 Family Members = $80,000
4 Family Members = $59,000     7 Family Members = $90,000

*For each additional family member, add $10,000
Source: California Department of Education, 2025-26
Income is only one factor in our decision-making, but no award is based on income alone. The guidelines above, reflect typical eligibility ranges and are not rigidly applied. We encourage families to apply even if their income exceeds these guidelines

Send Recommendation Form Link

Please share the link to the recommendation form with your 8th-grade principal, counselor, or a teacher who has known you for two years or more.

Scholarship Notification

Scholarship recipients will be notified after March 23, 2026 — the Monday after admissions decisions are released by schools. Accepted students who would like to accept the scholarship will be asked to provide a parent’s signature on release forms in order to receive their award.

Scholarship Awarded

Each Bay Scholar receives $3,500/year. Funds are sent directly to the school in December and applied toward tuition.

 Application Process

Important Dates to Note

Online applications available: September 5, 2025

Application & required forms/materials due: February 6, 2026

Scholarship recipients notified: after March 23, 2026

Apply Online by February 6th, 2026

Send Us Your Financial Documents

Please scan then email your income verification for all adults in the household (e.g., federal tax return or other current income statements such as child support, SSI, disability, foster care, etc.). Documents can be emailed to kaelah@bayscholars.org

Income Eligibility Guidelines
2 Family Members = $39,000     5 Family Members = $70,000
3 Family Members = $49,000     6 Family Members = $80,000
4 Family Members = $59,000     7 Family Members = $90,000

*For each additional family member, add $10,000
Source: California Department of Education, 2025-26
Income is only one factor in our decision-making, but no award is based on income alone. The guidelines above, reflect typical eligibility ranges and are not rigidly applied. We encourage families to apply even if their income exceeds these guidelines.

Send Recommendation Form Link

Please share the link to the recommendation form with your 8th-grade principal, counselor, or a teacher who has known you for two years or more.

Scholarship Notification

Scholarship recipients will be notified after March 23, 2026 — the Monday after admissions decisions are released by schools. Accepted students who would like to accept the scholarship will be asked to provide a parent’s signature on release forms in order to receive their award.

Scholarship Awarded

Each Bay Scholar receives $3,500/year. Funds are sent directly to the school in December and applied toward tuition.