How to Apply

the 2024 application is NOW CLOSED. 

Sign up to be notified for the 2025 application below.

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ELIGIBILITY

Candidates must

• Demonstrate outstanding leadership, character, communication skills, academic achievement, and commitment to Ventura County
• Demonstrate strong academic performance (minimum 3.0 grade point average/4.0 scale or equivalent)
• Be citizens of the United States of America
• Graduate from a high school in Ventura County, California during the current academic year (home-schooled high school seniors in Ventura County, California also are eligible)
• Plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study at an accredited two- or four-year college or university in the United States for the entire upcoming academic year

CHARACTERISTICS OF A SCHOLAR

LEADERSHIP

Scholars possess natural leadership skills, vision, and ambition, and pursue roles of influence and service. They use their influence to set a positive example for their peers and set a course for progress in their school and in their community.

CHARACTER

Scholars are rooted in their principles, values, and ethics. They earn the respect of their peers, school administrators, and community leaders by demonstrating integrity, dependability, conviction, and strong personal character.

COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Scholars use their skills as communicators to inspire others and affect positive change in the community. Using clear and purposeful communication skills and strategies, Scholars articulate a clear vision for improving the community and motivate their peers to contribute to a greater cause.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Scholars are driven to excel academically. They value a quality education as a means for personal advancement. Scholars seek the “hard” academic road and diligently pursue a high standard of achievement.

COMMITMENT TO VENTURA COUNTY

Scholars are upstanding representatives of Ventura County. They actively engage in their community and make notable contributions of selfless service. Scholars take pride in their County and are, in turn, considered community assets.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. Basic information about you, your parent/guardian, your high school, and your college plans.
2. Your involvement in extracurricular activities.
3. Your involvement in community service.
4. Your involvement in paid work.
5. Essay on a pivotal leadership experience.
6. Your high school transcripts (semifinalists only).
7. Two recommendations (semifinalists only).
8. A video response to an additional essay question (semifinalists only).