Scholarships

A scholarship is financial aid that does not need to be repaid. Total aid awarded in loans, grants, and scholarships may not exceed a student's total Cost of Attendance.

Types of Scholarships

Pepperdine Scholarships for Continuing Students

For GSEP Pepperdine Scholarships, continuing students are defined as students presently enrolled at Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology in their second term or more in the same academic program. Please note, that transfers from a GSEP Doctor of Education program to the GSEP Doctor of Philosophy in Global Leadership and Change program are considered continuing students for Pepperdine scholarship purposes.

Awards are made based on a variety of criteria, including academic merit, financial need, specific academic programs, and the promotion of cultural diversity at the school.

Please note: Students in the 100% online (Psychology @ Pepperdine) programs are only eligible for the Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship and the Waves Got Your Six Scholarship. These scholarships can be combined with other scholarships except Federal and Institutional Military Scholarships/Benefits, Athletic Scholarships, and the GSEP Diversity Scholarship. Students receiving these scholarships/benefits, or other forms of third-party scholarship(s) will require further approvals. Scholarships are generally awarded at the start of the academic year and students must be enrolled full-time (6 units each term) to remain eligible.

View GSEP Pepperdine Scholarship Policies

L.A. Sheriff's Department University Partnership

LASD University students and their qualifying spouse and children (must apply to the program by age 25) as well as city, county, state, and federal employees. Employees must be in good standing. Discount cannot be applied to previous terms. Please visit https://gsep.pepperdine.edu/admission/lasdu-partnership/ for more information.

Application Process:
Eligible students must submit an employment verification form to receive the discount before or during each term. Verification forms can be obtained by contacting the Financial Aid Office.

Contact the GSEP Financial Aid Office for more information at 310.568.5775 or gsepfaid@pepperdine.edu.

GSEP Urban Initiative Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

The GSEP Urban Initiative Scholarship applies to both currently enrolled and new students and is designed to increase graduate-level higher education access and to promote academic excellence among students engaging with urban communities. This fund seeks to reduce financial barriers for this targeted population and increase their representation and Pepperdine's involvement in urban community activities.

Application Process

The applicant must submit an essay and letter of recommendation from a community leader, demonstrate a strong commitment to Christian values, and be actively engaged in both the church and the broader community. The essay should be approximately 300 words and address one of the following two points:
(1) Please describe how a particular activity or program you are actively engaged in within urban communities, represents the Pepperdine Mission.
(2) How does your academic work/dissertation topic or research interest seek to promote academic excellence among students engaging with urban communities?
As an alternative to the essay, applicants may submit a personal video message expounding on their involvement with an urban community, and how the university's mission is supported in these efforts.

Applications must be submitted electronically to the following link: Urban Initiative Scholarship Application

Governing Policies

This $5,000 scholarship is intended to support one academic year of study and will be allocated evenly across all terms.
The awarded scholarship will be forfeited at the point when the awardee advances through the academic program and completes the coursework.
If there is a leave of absence, the awardee will no longer be eligible for funding and must reapply for consideration.
Recipients of this scholarship are not restricted from receiving other scholarships for which they qualify.

GSEP Endowed Board of Visitors Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

The GSEP Endowed Board of Visitors Scholarship applies to both currently enrolled and new students and is established to provide lived leadership lessons for a doctoral student matriculating in one of the GSEP doctoral programs. The recipient must be in good academic standing and is required to serve as a student representative on the Board and to assist the Secretary of the Board in preparing minutes and other communications for its members. Meetings are held at various locations. The scholarship is for one academic year.

Application Process:

The applicant must submit an essay (approximately 300 words) and three letters of recommendation from church and community leaders. The essay should address the applicant's eligibility with particular emphasis on their ongoing involvement in and contributions to the church and the broader community. It should address their experience with technology and explain their planned technology/leadership project. Scholarships can be renewed annually with proof of good academic standing and an approved technology/leadership project plan. Applications must be submitted electronically to the following link: GSEP Endowed Board of Visitors Scholarship

Administration Policies:

The application deadline is June 15th. A deadline extension can only be approved by the GSEP Dean.
This scholarship is optimally designed to support one (1) year of coursework: Three (3) terms totaling $3,000.00.
This scholarship is designed to cover the coursework and comprehensive exam phase of the academic program.
The dissertation phase of the academic program is not covered by the scholarship.
The awarded scholarship will be forfeited at the point when the awardee advances through the academic program, completes the coursework, and begins the dissertation process.
Undisbursed funds will be added to the interest accrued by the endowment. They will be distributed during subsequent awarding periods in late July or early August.
The scholarship will not be held for awardees who take a leave of absence.
Recipients of this scholarship are not restricted from receiving other scholarships for which they qualify.

Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

Awarded to both currently enrolled and new students who are veterans, active-duty reservists, or dependents (children or spouses) of a veteran or active-duty reservist. Recipients must demonstrate excellent academic performance (cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above) and must be pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in any format (traditional, hybrid, and online) at the Graduate School of Education and Psychology. The scholarship is available to both currently enrolled and new students enrolled at least half-time. Preference is given to students who demonstrate financial need and who have not previously received Pepperdine scholarships or grants. They also must be currently ineligible to receive Yellow Ribbon Program benefits. This fund seeks to reduce financial barriers for this targeted population, either towards tuition or academic balances, or other ancillary costs. This is awarded for one term only.

Application Process:

The Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship will require a separate application and proof of receipt of benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Note: Eligible students are notified via email with application instructions when the application becomes available.

If you qualify based on the criteria above, please complete the following steps:

Please visit https://pepperdine.academicworks.com/users/sign_in. Once on the page, kindly click "Sign In With Your Institution." You must use your Pepperdine Network ID and password. Note: Do not click the "Opportunities" tab on the upper left-hand side.
You must complete the General Application if you have not done so already.
Once the General Application is completed, you will find the scholarship application under "Other Recommended Opportunities" or "Opportunities."
Within the application, students will be asked to complete a personal statement between 300-500 words and a letter of recommendation.

The 2023-2024 application is now closed. All students will be notified via email with instructions to apply when the application is available for 2024-2025.

David Levy Endowed Scholarship for Excellence in Critical Thinking

Eligibility Criteria:

The Dr. David Levy Scholarship Scholarship for Excellence in Critical Thinking applies to both currently enrolled and new students and is intended for graduate students enrolled in the psychology program at the Graduate School of Education and Psychology with a minimum grade point average of 3.5. The recipient must demonstrate excellence in critical thinking, defined as a set of systematic cognitive strategies to examine, evaluate, and understand events, solve problems, and make decisions on the basis of logical reasoning and valid evidence. Components of critical thinking include maintaining an attitude that is both open-minded and skeptical; minimizing personal biases; recognizing the distinction between facts and theories; differentiating dichotomous variables from continuous variables; understanding causal relationships; identifying similarities and differences between phenomena; objectively gathering and weighing, and synthesizing information; forming reasonable inferences; striving for factual accuracy and logical consistency; questioning underlying assumptions and beliefs; discerning creative solutions; and redeveloping a tolerance for uncertainty and ambiguity.

Pat Lucas Award for Excellence in Teacher Preparation

The Pat Lucas Award for Excellence in Teacher Preparation applies to currently enrolled MA Teaching students and is designed to recognize excellence and to help these students complete the program whilst reducing financial barriers.

There is no application process. All qualified MA in Teaching students will be considered as eligible recipients following successful completion of their second semester of courses and their edTPA portfolio. Qualified recipients are candidates who have exhibited excellence throughout the program, successfully completed their 2nd semester of MAT coursework, submitted their edTPA portfolio, plan to enroll immediately in their final semester, and demonstrate financial need.

The Director of the Pat Lucas Center-in coordination with the MA in Teaching leadership will identify & review qualified candidates.

Marco Garcia Memorial Fellowship

Qualified applicants are invited to apply for a scholarship in the amount of $1,500. Several scholarships are available. In addition, the possibility of continued funding for subsequent years is available for a limited number of recipients.

The Enrique and Lucy Garcia Family Foundation established the scholarship in memory of their beloved son, Marco Garcia (1973-1995), who noticed a substantial need for more Mexican-American mental health professionals. The scholarship was instituted to celebrate and remember Marco’s life, spirit, and vision.

Their oldest son was a very talented and gifted artist and musician devoted to social activism. He was a much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend who touched many people differently. Marco was a free-spirited, caring, and loving person who enjoyed skateboarding and snowboarding. He was the type of person who would have given a stranger the “shirt off his back” or his “last dime” because “they needed it more than me,” as Marco would say.

Marco made quite an impact and touched many people during his short life, and he continues to do so in spirit. It is hoped that the Marco Garcia Memorial Fellowship will help him continue to “touch” and impact the lives of others while helping to fill a need in the mental health field.

Eligibility Criteria:

This scholarship is available to students enrolled full-time in either the PsyD in Clinical Psychology or MA in Clinical Psychology (Daytime Format, Evening Format, or Aliento) programs and is intended for those who aspire to use their education in psychology to support the mental health of the Latino/a/x community. Mexican or Mexican-American applicants are encouraged to apply. Students anticipated to graduate this term or in the upcoming term are ineligible to apply for this scholarship. Recipients must also demonstrate excellent academic performance (cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above).

Application Process:

Submit a three-page (single-spaced) essay describing:

Personal background
Professional and volunteer experience
Issues facing the Latino/a community
How your work as a mental health professional will address the issues facing the Latino/a community
Include one letter of recommendation from a Pepperdine University faculty member or clinical supervisor

Application submission through Blackbaud Awards Management

GSEP Financial Aid Endowed Scholarships (application required)

Listed below are endowed scholarships for continuing students enrolled in GSEP on-ground/hybrid programs. Recipients are considered for each scholarship through submission of the annual GSEP Scholarship Application. Applications are reviewed by the scholarship committee and applicants are notified of the status of their application. Chosen recipients will be required to submit a Thank You Letter to their Donor(s).

The 2024-2025 application for continuing students is available and will be open through September 30, 2024.

List of Scholarships

Abbas & Nosrat Amin Endowment

Awarded to a student in a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership or Master of Arts in Social Entrepreneurship and Change programs with preference given to a female of Iranian descent. If this is not attainable, then the award may be given to a female student of Middle Eastern descent enrolled in either of the aforementioned programs.

Benjamin M. Bendat Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in the Master of Arts in Teaching with a preliminary teaching credential program. Eligibility is based on the recognition of academic excellence and financial need.

Bertha Melgoza, Ph.D. Clinical Psychology Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in the following GSEP clinical psychology programs: MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy (daytime, evening & Aliento formats), and Psychology doctoral program. Eligibility is based on financial need.

Chester H. McCall Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program. Eligibility is based on financial need.

Chiang Kai-Shek Scholarship

Awarded to any continuing student who is of Taiwanese nationality or descent in any GSEP on-ground or hybrid face-to-face program.

Claudette S. McLinn Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Danhakl Family Foundation Fellowship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and academic achievement as well as proven themselves as aspiring leaders and active community members. A letter of recommendation is required in addition to the application.

Dr. Farzin Madjidi Scholarship

Awarded to students in the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program. The applicant must demonstrate financial need.

Glen and Gloria Holden Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

GSEP Squaires Scholarship for Women

Awarded to female students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need with a preference for single mothers.

Harry & Izelle Shafer Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs, who demonstrate high academic achievement and offer great promise for leadership in our country or its supporting institutions. A letter of recommendation is required in addition to the application.

J. McDonald and Judy Williams GSEP Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must be members of the Church of Christ (not International Church of Christ) and in good standing. First-time applicants must submit a personal statement describing their church involvement and a letter of recommendation from an elder, deacon, or minister. Current Church of Christ scholarship recipients who wish to be considered for renewal are required to submit a personal statement describing how they have continued to contribute to their church community.

John & Rebecca Barton Scholarship

John and Bertha Garabedian Charitable Foundation

Awarded to students in any GSEP on-ground or hybrid face-to-face program. Recipients must be from any of the following counties in California: Fresno, Kings, Madera or Tulare.

Joseph Chung Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students demonstrating financial need who are interested in a career in special education. Preference is given to students who are citizens of Korea or of Korean descent.

Linda M. Gage AWP Endowed Scholarship

Merilyn O'Neal Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in the Doctor of Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy program. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Michael Y.F. Chau Scholarship

Awarded to students in any of GSEP's education programs. The student must be from China, Hong Kong, or Taiwan.

Pepperdine Black Alumni Council Scholarship

Awarded to African American students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs, in their second year of study or more with a 3.50 GPA who demonstrate financial need as well as leadership and a commitment to service. A letter of recommendation is required in addition to the application.

Randy Clark Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in the Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership program with financial need. Students who express a desire to work for a non-profit organization upon graduation will be given preference for the scholarship.

Sally Edwards Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to students from Hawaii.

Yolanda Aguerrebere Endowed Scholarship

Awarded to students in any GSEP program, not including 100% online psychology programs. Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

Pepperdine Scholarships for New Students

A new student for GSEP Pepperdine Scholarships is defined as a student in his/her first term at Pepperdine University's Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP). Transfers from a 100% online (Psychology@Pepperdine) program to the on-ground Psychology programs are not considered new students for Pepperdine scholarship purposes. Students who are making a program plan change, modality change, or have completed a GSEP Doctor of Education program and are now applying to the GSEP Doctor of Philosophy in Global Leadership and Change program are not considered new students for scholarship purposes.

Awards are made based on a variety of criteria, including academic merit, financial need, specific academic programs, and the promotion of cultural diversity at the school. Note: Scholarship funds are limited and are awarded based on this criteria and on a first-come, first-served basis or until all funds have been distributed.

Please Note: Students in the 100% online (Psychology @ Pepperdine) and MS in Education programs are only eligible for the GSEP Urban Initiative Scholarship, Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship, and the Waves Got Your Six Scholarship. Scholarships are generally awarded at the start of the academic year and students must be enrolled full-time (6 units each term) to remain eligible. These scholarships can be combined with other scholarships except for the Colleagues Grant, Federal and Institutional Military Scholarships/Benefits, Athletic Scholarships, and GSEP Diversity Scholarship. Students receiving these scholarships/benefits, or other forms of third-party scholarship(s) will require further approvals.

View GSEP Pepperdine Scholarship Policies

Education for Life: Up to $4,000

Eligibility Criteria:

Eligibility is based on the receipt date of application for admission and availability of scholarship funds.

See our application page for deadlines.

Application Process:

Once accepted to a qualifying GSEP degree program, any candidate who submitted their application or admission by one of our qualifying deadlines will be eligible for the one-time Education for Life scholarship. No separate scholarship application is required.

Note: Education for Life Scholarship does not apply to applicants who are applying for the following programs:

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology with Emphasis in Marriage & Family Therapy (Daytime Format)
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
100% Online Psychology programs
100% Online MS in Education programs

Please Note: Education for Life scholarships are offered for our early application deadlines and the availability of scholarship funds. The maximum scholarship amount for the Education for Life program is $4,000 per person. Multiple Education for Life scholarships may be combined to reach the $4,000 limit but cannot exceed this amount.

Please Note: The Education for Life and Merit Scholarships cannot be combined. The higher amount between the two will be awarded.

Merit Scholarships: up to $5,000 (one-time award)

Eligibility Criteria:

GSEP offers merit-based scholarships for first-time, full-time students enrolling in GSEP's academic programs. Applicants must have a cumulative 3.5 GPA or higher from their prior, combined undergraduate and graduate (if applicable) degree programs to be considered.

The Merit scholarship is awarded over three academic terms and a 3.0 GPA or higher must be maintained during that time.

Application Process:

Once accepted to a qualifying GSEP degree program, any candidate with a cumulative 3.5 GPA and who has submitted their application for admission by our qualifying complete deadline will be eligible for the one-time Merit scholarship. No separate scholarship application is required.

Note: Merit Scholarships do not apply to applicants who are applying for the following programs:

MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy (Daytime Format)
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
100% Online Psychology programs
100% Online MS in Education program

Please Note: The Education for Life and Merit Scholarships cannot be combined. The higher amount between the two will be awarded.

Pathway to Purpose Scholarships: $1,000-$7,000 (one-time award)

Eligibility Criteria:

This Pathway to Purpose scholarship is designed to support new, first-time GSEP students on their pathway to a life of purpose, service, and leadership through earning a graduate degree at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology.

GSEP is dedicated to building scholar-practitioners through hands-on learning. We recognize experience and contributions within your community are as important as your academic background when preparing for a graduate program. We also recognize the financial impact of pursuing a graduate degree and advancing your pathway to purpose. The Pathway to Purpose scholarship was created to provide financial support to first-time students who are actively engaged in community or volunteer work, service to diverse and underserved populations, or face a significant financial challenge.

The Pathway to Purpose scholarship is awarded over three academic terms and a 3.0 GPA or higher must be maintained during that time. Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $7,000. Once accepted to a qualifying GSEP degree program, candidates may be eligible for the Pathway to Purpose scholarship.

Application Process:

Applicants are asked to write a 250-300 word essay on one of the three following prompts: 1) Contribution to Diversity, 2) Community Service, or 3) Financial Need or Burden. Follow this link to apply.

Note: Pathway to Purpose Scholarships do not apply to applicants who are applying for the following programs:

MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy (Daytime Format)
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology
100% Online Psychology programs
100% Online MS in Education program

Evelyn B. Blake Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

The scholarship is awarded to an incoming student to the Psy.D. program who demonstrates academic achievement and promise. The selection is made by the PsyD Admissions Committee.

Application Process:

No additional application is required.

Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

Awarded to both currently enrolled and new students who are veterans, active-duty reservists, or dependents (children or spouse) of a veteran or active-duty reservist. Recipients must demonstrate excellent academic performance (cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above) and must be pursuing a master's or doctoral degree in any format (traditional, hybrid, and online) at the Graduate School of Education and Psychology. The scholarship is available to both currently enrolled and new students enrolled at least half-time. Preference is given to students who demonstrate financial need and who have not previously received Pepperdine scholarships or grants. They also must be currently ineligible to receive Yellow Ribbon Program benefits. This fund seeks to reduce financial barriers for this targeted population, either towards tuition or academic balances, or other ancillary costs. This is awarded for one term only.

Application Process:

The Curtice & Evelyn Booth Veterans Endowed Scholarship will require a separate application and proof of receipt of benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Note: Eligible students are notified via email with application instructions when the application becomes available.

If you qualify based on the criteria above, please complete the following steps:

Please visit https://pepperdine.academicworks.com/users/sign_in. Once on the page, kindly click "Sign In With Your Institution." You must use your Pepperdine Network ID and password. Note: Do not click the "Opportunities" tab on the upper left-hand side.
You must complete the General Application if you have not done so already.
Once the General Application is completed, you will find the scholarship application under "Other Recommended Opportunities" or "Opportunities."
Within the application, students will be asked to complete a personal statement between 300-500 words and a letter of recommendation.

E.V. Pullias Endowed Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

It is awarded to new students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Teaching with Preliminary Teaching Credential (MAT) program. Eligibility is based on high academic merit.

Application Process:

No application is required.

Olaf H. Tegner Endowed Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

It is awarded to new students in the following Education programs only: Master of Arts in Teaching with Preliminary Teaching Credential (MAT) or Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Candidates must be current teachers or individuals who aspire to be in the teaching profession.

Application Process:

No application is required.

Bill and Nancy Mortensen Endowed Teacher Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

It is awarded to a student in the MATP program who is studying to obtain a teaching credential in the subject area of mathematics, U.S. history, or reading. Preference shall be given to minority students who are in good standing in all areas of the University. Preference shall also be given to students who have committed to teaching for three years after graduation.

Application Process:

No application is required.

L.A. Sheriffs Department University Partnership

Eligibility Criteria:

L.A. Sheriff's Department (LASD) University students and their qualifying spouse and children (must apply to the program by age 25) as well as city, county, state, and federal employees. Employees must be in good standing. Discount cannot be applied to previous terms. Please visit https://gsep.pepperdine.edu/admission/lasdu-partnership/ for more information.

Eligible students must submit an employment verification form to receive the discount before or during each term. Verification forms can be obtained by contacting the Financial Aid Office.

Contact the GSEP Financial Aid Office for more information at 310.568.5775 or gsepfaid@pepperdine.edu.

City Year University Partnerships Program

Eligibility Criteria:

Scholarships awarded to City Year alumni for at least one year of service and City Year staff members employed for at least two years.

The scholarship is a 10% discount on tuition. Applicants can be considered for private scholarships based on donor criteria.
Application Fee Waiver is available.
A one-year deferral for students admitted to a graduate program who decide to serve with City Year before starting their study with Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology.

Application Process:

Apply to a program: Click here to access the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology's admissions website and apply online. Deadline: Application deadlines vary by program. Most programs accept applications on a rolling basis and encourage applicants to apply well in advance of the posted deadlines.
City Year verification: To get the application fee waived and to be considered for the scholarship, a service verification letter must be requested by emailing alumni@cityyear.org with "Pepperdine GSEP" in the subject line. Within the email, include the site where you served and your corps graduation month and year. This letter will be sent electronically by City Year to the university's Admissions Office and added to your application.
To identify and verify your City Year affiliation: Please contact the Enrollment Office by calling (800) 888-4849 or (310) 258-2850 or emailing gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu to get the application fee waived and be considered for the scholarship described above. Please state that you served with City Year and reference our partnership.

Note: The City Year University Partnership scholarship does not apply to individuals who are applying for any 100% Online Psychology, 100% Online MS in Education, MA in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy (Daytime Format), and Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Programs.

GSEP Urban Initiative Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

Application Process

Applications must be submitted electronically to the following link: Urban Initiative Scholarship Application

Governing Policies

This $5,000 scholarship is intended to support one academic year of study and will be allocated evenly across all terms.
The awarded scholarship will be forfeited at the point when the awardee advances through the academic program and completes the coursework.
If there is a leave of absence, the awardee will no longer be eligible for funding and must reapply for consideration.
Recipients of this scholarship are not restricted from receiving other scholarships for which they qualify.

GSEP Endowed Board of Visitors Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria:

Application Process:

Administration Policies:

The application deadline is June 15th. A deadline extension can only be approved by the GSEP Dean.
This scholarship is optimally designed to support one (1) year of coursework: Three (3) terms totaling $3,000.00.
This scholarship is designed to cover the coursework and comprehensive exam phase of the academic program.
The dissertation phase of the academic program is not covered by the scholarship.
The awarded scholarship will be forfeited at the point when the awardee advances through the academic program, completes the coursework, and begins the dissertation process.
Undisbursed funds will be added to the interest accrued by the endowment. They will be distributed during subsequent awarding periods in late July or early August.
The scholarship will not be held for awardees who take a leave of absence.
Recipients of this scholarship are not restricted from receiving other scholarships for which they qualify.

David Levy Scholarship for Excellence in Critical Thinking

Eligibility Criteria

GSEP Diversity Scholarship (only available to NEW students)

Eligibility Criteria:

The GSEP Diversity Scholarship is a need-based grant awarded each year to two students of academic merit and achievement who contribute to the University's ethnic diversity enrolled in any Doctorate of Education or PhD in Global Leadership and Change programs. Qualified students are awarded approximately $50,000 over Years 1-3 covering 50 percent of each student's tuition per year provided they meet the financial need requirements each year via FAFSA. The purpose is to reflect the University's commitment to achieve a diverse student population for the educational benefit of all of its students, and to educate and train students from underrepresented groups.

The scholarship will be available for the first two years of coursework for students enrolled in any Doctorate of Education program or 2.5 years of coursework for students enrolled in the PhD in Global Leadership and Change program. Students are not eligible for this scholarship once the dissertation phase of their program begins.

Application Process:

Applicants wishing to apply for the GSEP Diversity Scholarship must submit an essay of up to 350 words of personal narrative describing their past, present, and anticipated contributions and service to underrepresented groups. Applicants for the Diversity Scholarship must also complete the FAFSA. Application Deadline: June 15th.

Applications must be submitted electronically to the following link: Diversity Scholarship Education Application Link .

External Scholarships

Students are encouraged to seek scholarships from private organizations. Below is an updated list of scholarships sectioned as follows: applicable to all GSEP Students, Psychology programs, Education programs, and Dissertation students.

Scholarships Applicable to All GSEP Students:

ACB Scholarship Program - The American Council of the Blind's (ACB) Scholarship Program was established in 1982. The American Council of the Blind (ACB) and the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) have now partnered together to offer educational scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $7,500 for those attending a technical college or as an entering freshman, undergraduate, or a graduate student.
Hispanic Scholarship Fund - Multiple scholarship programs are available with different requirements. All applicants must be a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or an eligible non-citizen and pursuing a first graduate degree.
$5,000 Monthly Scholarship Sweepstakes - Undergraduate and graduate students (and their parents) can enter to win 1 of 12 monthly scholarships worth $5,000 each. No essay or lengthy application is required. Please review Discover's scholarship flyer. See Official Rules for details and deadlines.
18 Exclusive Mental Health Scholarships in 2023 - Bold.org provides students with a list of mental health scholarships to raise awareness of the mental health of college students. The scholarships are open to all students to support students battling mental illness.
Scholarship Foundation of Santa Barbara - Scholarships are available to eligible graduate students based on financial need, potential, and motivation. Scholarship awards range from $500 to $5,000 per academic year. To be eligible, students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must have attended at least four of the six years between grades 7-12 at a Santa Barbara County school.
JVS Scholarship Program - Jewish Vocational Service offers scholarships to Jewish students who are permanent residents of Los Angeles County and have financial needs. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Annual deadline of January 1st.
Gates Millennium Scholars Program - Scholarships are available to continuing Gates Millennium Scholars in the area of education to help fund the cost of education by covering unmet need and self-help aid.
Elevate Black Entrepreneurs Scholarship - A $1,000 semi-annual grant designed to empower the next generation of Black entrepreneurs. The scholarship is open to current or aspiring Black entrepreneurs across any field or business stage who will be considered. Winners will be selected on the merit of their business idea, and on the impact that additional support would have for them.
$10,000+ in Life Reimagined Scholarships - Life Reimagined Scholarships includes multiple scholarship opportunities that apply to various groups and causes and aim to help motivated and high-achieving students to elevate the palace to a better place. Scholarships are ranged from $500 to $1,000.
National Council of Jewish Women/Los Angeles (NCJW/LA) - This organization provides scholarships to those who live and attend school in the Greater Los Angeles area. The selection of recipients is based on merit without bias in regard to race, ethnicity, religion, age, or national origin. The scholarships range from $1,000 to $2,000.
"$$$ Isn't Everything" Grant - A winner will be selected every month for a $550 grant which exists to help reduce a little worry about money each month for a student and get a bit of time back to focus on important things. A new winner is announced and a new deadline at the end of every month.
45+ College Scholarships for Minority Students - Purdue University Global provides minority students a continuously updated list of scholarship resources and tips for applying.
EduMed Scholarships for Hispanic and Latino Students - To help alleviate some of the burden that paying for a degree can cause, EduMed guides students who are of hispanic and Latino descent to get financial help with a list of scholarship resources. Please be aware of your eligibility.
The LGBTQ Scholarship Fund - Point Education offers three scholarships to empower promising lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students to achieve their full academic and leadership potential to significantly impact society.
Exclusive Scholarships Only for Military Spouses - There are many scholarships for military spouses, but due to limitations and degree restrictions they are often difficult to apply for. Did you know scholarships are available to Military spouses through The National Military Family Association (NMFA)? These scholarships are uncomplicated and easy to apply for, and awardees can receive a scholarship more than once. NMFA has awarded scholarships to pay for everything from GEDs, Ph.Ds, professional licenses, and certifications.
Sallie Mae Scholarship - The Sallie Mae Fund offers students facing financial challenges the scholarship to complete their education program. By registering, you'll be entered for a chance to win $1,000 for college, so you could pay less out of pocket.

Psychology Programs:

Southern Counties Regional Partnership (SCRP) Graduate Stipend Program- Intends to award educational stipends of $6,000 to graduate students training in their final year in a treatment facility operated by a county-run or county-contracted mental health/behavioral health agency. The program will recruit graduate students in the fields of clinical psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, professional counseling, and psychiatric nurse practitioner with the goal of addressing the workforce needs of the SCRP counties: Imperial, Kern, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Tri-Cities (Claremont, La Verne, Pomona) and Ventura. Application available: December 6 - January 31.
LA County DMH Stipend Program application is now live and available to students in Social Work, Marriage and Family Therapy, Psychology (PhD/PsyD) or Psychiatric Nursing who will complete their degree between September 1, 2023 and August 31, 2024.
Hope for Healing - FHE Health offers one $5000 award for undergraduate and one $5000 award to graduate students to support them pursue a vocation in addiction and mental health.
Counseling and Psychology Scholarships - College Consensus offers a list of top 25 counseling and psychology scholarships.
CAMFT Scholarships & Grant - The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (CAMFT) Educational Foundation. Applications are now open until November 3, 2023. You may only apply for ONE Scholarship. If you apply for more than one, none of your applications will be considered.
HCAI Funding Opportunities - The California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) is promoting funding opportunities, at least two of which are particularly relevant to GSEP's Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology students and alumni: The Advanced Practice Healthcare Scholarship Program and the Licensed Mental Health Services Provider Education Program. To determine if you are eligible for a program and what program you can apply for, please use the HCAI edibility tool. You can also click here for information on HCAI loan repayments, scholarships, and grants. For questions, contact Allied Healthcare Scholarship Program (AHSP) Support at hwdd-sch@hcai.ca.gov or (916) 326-3700.

Future Counselors of America Scholarship - Annual scholarship awards of $1,000 to those majoring in psychology and who seek a career in relationship counseling or a related field. Applicants are selected based on academic achievement and a 500 to 900-word essay. Annual deadline of June 30th.

APA Scholarships, Grants, & Awards - The American Psychological Association and its affiliated organizations provide a wide range of grants and scholarships. Use this website to search for relevant awards.
APF Scholarships and Grants - The American Psychological Foundation supports multiple programs to help graduate students further their education in psychology.
Psi Chi Awards & Grant - Psi Chi sponsors a wide variety of awards and grants each year for graduate psychology students who are members of Psi Chi. Please visit the Psi Chi website for application deadlines and other eligibility requirements. For information on the Psi Chi, Student Group click here.

Air Force Health Professions Scholarship - Every year, the Air Force awards scholarships through its Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). The HPSP pays for tuition, books, and most fees, as well as a monthly stipend for living expenses while students attend school. To be eligible for a scholarship, students must be a U.S. citizen and be accepted at an accredited graduate institution in an appropriate health professions training program. Scholarship recipients must make a commitment to serve on active duty as an Air Force health professional for a minimum of three years. For more information regarding the application process and for the most up-to-date information contact the local Air Force Health Professions recruiter at 800.588.5260 or visit the website.
Mental Health Loan Assumption Program (MHLAP) - MHLAP was created by the Mental Health Services Act (Act), passed by California voters in November 2004. The Act provided funding to develop a loan forgiveness program in order to retain qualified professionals working within the Public Mental Health System (PMHS). Through the Workforce Education and Training component of the Act, $10 million is allocated yearly to loan assumption awards.

Education Programs:

AASA Awards and Grants - American Association of School Administrators created these scholarships to support outstanding graduate students in school administration who intend to go into the superintendency.

Toshiba America Foundation Grants - Education grants are provided to elementary and secondary school classroom teachers, grades K-12, with a focus on math and science. Grant amounts range from about $1,000 - $5,000+.
CABE Teachership Award - The California Association for Bilingual Education Teachership Program awards $2,000 scholarships to graduate students seeking a career in pursuing their bilingual teaching credential. Students must be nominated by a CABE chapter, region representative, or individual nominator. Two recipients are selected in each region.
Teacher Education Scholarship from Daughters of the American Revolution (DAAR) - The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) offers two separate education scholarships of up to $1,500, one for a candidate studying to teach at the elementary level and another studying to teach at the secondary level. Applicants must be a US citizen, at least 25 years of age and have a minimum GPA of 3.5.
California Teachers Association Scholarships - Awards include effective communications by and for local chapters, excellence in public education media coverage, strong social justice, and human rights work, and more. Educational scholarship grants offer financial support to CTA members and their dependents throughout the academic year. Award: $3,000 - $5,000. Annual deadline of January 27th.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarship Program - Encourages students of color to become educators, school nurses, school counselors or school therapists and to promote professional growth for teachers and ESP members of color. Award: $6,000. Annual deadline of February 10th.
PraxisExam Guide to Scholarships for Future Teachers - In addition to school-based financial aid opportunities, there are nationwide, state-wide, and local scholarships specifically for future teachers. These awards are offered by different organizations and people who wish to support those making the choice to become educators. The website linked above provides information on specific scholarships to future educators.
Ford Foundation Fellowship - Awards will be made for study in research-based Ph.D. or Sc.D. programs; practice oriented degree programs are not eligible for support (see eligible fields). Prospective applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements.

Dissertation Students:

AAUW Dissertation Fellowship - American Association of University Women offers support to outstanding women committed to improving their schools and communities through their research studies. Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Open to applicants in all fields of study. Please visit the website for all fellowships and grants available.
AERA Dissertation/Research Grant - The American Educational Research Association, along with funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), offers a grant program that supports research projects that are quantitative in nature and is available to support doctoral students in dissertation. Awards are $20,000 for one year and are not renewable. Applicants may be U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or non-U.S. citizens. Annual deadline of January 10th.
AERA Minority Dissertation Fellowship - The American Educational Research Association offers this program for members of racial and ethnic groups historically underrepresented in higher education who are in dissertation. A one-year stipend of $19,000 and up to $1,000 in travel support is awarded beginning July 1 or later and is nonrenewable. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents. Annual deadline of December 1st.
APA Dissertation Research Award - The purpose of the American Psychological Association Science Directorate Award program is to assist science-oriented doctoral students of psychology with research costs. Awards may be up to $5,000. Annual deadline of February 1st.
NAEd/Spencer Dissertation Fellowship - The Spencer Foundation provides fellowships to doctoral students who are in dissertation in the field of education. Applicants do not need to be U.S. citizens. Recipients will receive up to $25,000 for one academic year.
GoGrad Fellowships

Scholarship Search Websites

Bold Explore exclusive scholarships, fellowships, and grants, matched to you.

CareerOneStop Search more than 7,000 scholarships, fellowships, and grants with this search tool provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Cappex College student scholarships are scholarships awarded to students who are currently attending or are about to attend college. Students who have graduated and been accepted to a college or university can typically apply for these scholarships.

Fastweb A large, free, personalized scholarship search that matches you with scholarships.

FinAid A comprehensive guide to financial aid including loan and scholarship information as well as calculators.

GoGrad GoGrad has scholarship guides that offer a variety of general scholarship information including hundreds of scholarships, fellowships and grants, key information to include when applying for funding, and a variety of resources for specific groups including women, military veterans, and LGBTQ students.

GrantsA tool for searching and applying for grant funding. New opportunities are posted every year.

JobstarsThe following List of Education Professional Associations & Organizations is a key resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded Education professionals.

StudentScholarshipSearch.com A free scholarship and grant search database that does not require registering.

The College Board Scholarship Search Find scholarships, other financial aid, and internships from more than 2,200 programs, totaling nearly $6 billion.

Tuition Funding Sources (TFS) Scholarships A free service exclusively sponsored by Wells Fargo that links students to more than 7 million individual scholarships and to more than $41 billion in aid.

TUN Scholarship Search Engine The University Network (TUN.com) is helping students fund their education journey by offering them tools and resources to navigate the scholarships they created, managed, and promoted.

Scholly The adaptive scholarship matching engine that connects you with scholarships tailored just to you.

Scholarships A free scholarship search website that could match international students with scholarships.

ScholarshipOwl A Scholarship match website designed to speed up your application process.

Scholarship for Development Scholarship for Development provides lists of scholarships, grants, and fellowships for international students.

Scholarship America Scholarship America is an organization and search database that works directly with students, parents, colleges, businesses, and communities to help students fulfill their college dreams. Since it was founded in 1958, Scholarship America has distributed $4.2 billion to more than 2.5 million students ... and counting.

200 Free Scholarships for Minorities This free scholarship list is created by Black Excel with over 1,000 scholarships. Most are awarded on an annual basis.