UC Santa Cruz scholarships are awarded to undergraduate students by the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office and by campus departments.  Graduate Fellowships are awarded to graduate students by academic departments. Each year, about 2,200 undergraduate students receive scholarships from campus, government  and private sources.  More than 670 graduate students receive fellowships from campus, government and private sources. 

All students are automatically considered for scholarships - an application is not required.  Students applying for admission to UC Santa Cruz are encouraged to complete the scholarship section of the admission application.  Graduate students should contact their academic department for information.

The major scholarship programs administered by the Financial Aid and Scholarship Office for undergraduate students are listed below.

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  Regents Scholarship

  This is UC Santa Cruz's most prestigious scholarship, and is awarded annually to approximately 50 incoming undergraduates, including freshmen (for four years) and entering advanced standing students (for two years). Applicants to UC Santa Cruz are automatically considered for the Regents scholarship.  In addition to a monetary award, scholars receive priority enrollment and a campus housing guarantee. 
  
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  Campus Merit Scholarship

  Campus Merit Scholarships are funded by university alumni and friends.  Scholarships are awarded to students in recognition of both academic achievement and demonstrated financial need. Each year, about 1,100 students receive renewable scholarships which pay from $500 to $1,500 per year.
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  Karl S. Pister Scholarship

  The Karl S. Pister Leadership opportunity Awards Program was established in 1993 by former chancellor Karl S. Pister to increase opportunities for talented community college students who want to transfer to UCSC. Awards are $10,000 per year for two years.
  
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  Alumni Scholarship

  Scholarships are sponsored by the UCSC Alumni Association for new and current students. Awards honor high-achieving students who have compelling financial need. For new first year students awards are $9,000 paid over four years
  
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  Page and Eloise Smith Scholarship

  The Page and Eloise Smith Scholastic Society helps former foster youth, orphans, wards of the court, and homeless youth achieve their dream of a college education. The Smith Society offers a wide array of student support services, a close and caring community, and various opportunities to become involved. 

  Some of our Smith students created a video to share their stories.   

• Undergraduate Dean's Award

  This award recognizes the academic achievement of non-resident students.  Beginning fall 2011, new non-resident students receive the Undergraduate Dean's Award which pays $20,000 over 4 years for entering first year students and $10,000 over 2 years for entering transfer students.  Note: The Dean's award is intended to offset non-resident tuition and will be rescinded if the student becomes a California resident.

• Restricted Scholarships

  Scholarships are for students who meet one or more of the criteria established by the donor.  Criteria vary - examples include county/city of residence, special interests, and major field of study.  Students who meet donor criteria are automatically considered for scholarships - no separate application is required.  However, it is important to respond to the scholarship questions on the UC admission application when you apply for admission.