President's Scholars

What is the President’s Scholars Program ?

• Since 1979, the President’s Scholars Program has recognized California’s most exceptional high school graduates—students who embody academic excellence, leadership, and the Titan spirit of achievement.
• As Cal State Fullerton’s premier merit scholarship, the program provides more than financial support. It offers a transformative experience that empowers Scholars to thrive academically, grow personally, and lead boldly—on campus and beyond.
• Through dedicated mentoring, holistic advising, exclusive resources, and a vibrant community of high-achieving peers, President’s Scholars are equipped to pursue their ambitions with confidence and purpose.

President’s Scholars Program Eligibility

1. Open to high school seniors entering as first-time freshmen
2. Demonstrates high academic achievement and significant service to community
3. Minimum 3.5 GPA
4. Prospective students must complete the President’s Scholarship Application
5. Selected students will be invited to an in-person or virtual interview with the selection committee.
6. Must be a California Resident

Benefits

• Full Tuition and Fees Scholarship: Covers full cost of tuition and fees for four consecutive academic years
• Priority Registration: Early access to register for classes each semester
• Complimentary Transportation Resource: The scholarship also provides a parking permit or an Orange County bus pass for the fall and spring semesters.
• Access to Personal Laptop: New Apple or Dell laptop for personal use during all four years (up to $1,000 value; must be returned upon program completion)
• Access to the Center for Scholars: Includes free printing, holistic advising, and programming
• Special Invitations: Opportunities to attend and support university events

President’s Scholars Scholarship Application Timeline

• Application Opens: Early November
• Application Closes: Early March
• Interviews: Spring (In-person or Virtual)
• Offers Released: Late Spring

How to Apply to the President's Scholars Program

• • Apply to Cal State Fullerton
    • Before you can apply to the President's Scholars Program, you must first submit your admission application to CSUF. Be sure to complete all required steps for university admission.
  • Access the CSUF Scholarship Portal
    • Once your CSUF application is submitted, visit the scholarship Portal here: Scholarships Portal. Log in using your campus credentials. 
  • Search for President's Scholars
    • After logging in, use the search bar in the Scholarship Portal to look up President's Scholars. 
  • Complete the Application
    • Click on the President’s Scholars opportunity and complete all required sections of the application. Make sure to upload any necessary documents and review your responses before submitting.
  • Complete the Application before March 1^st 
    • After submitting your application, there is no need to check the portal for updates. You will hear directly from our team regarding next steps.