Scholarship Office

Scholarship Search Strategies
Learn how to effectively find scholarships that fit your unique story—whether through the Moorpark College Foundation or other organizations. We’ll help you develop the skills to identify opportunities that match your goals and experiences.

Application & Essay Guidance
Discover tips and strategies to make your application stand out. We’ll show you how to craft a compelling personal statement and tailor your responses to meet scholarship criteria.

Letters of Recommendation
Find out how to select the right recommenders and professionally request letters that strengthen your application.

Exploring Personal Networks
Learn how to tap into your current connections—teachers, mentors, employers—and how to expand your network. We’ll also guide you on writing networking or introduction letters to help you build new relationships and access more scholarship opportunities.

Moorpark College Foundation Scholarship Application
Get step-by-step guidance on completing the Moorpark College Foundation Scholarship Application. We’ll help you understand the timeline, required materials, and best practices to ensure your application is complete and competitive.

Campus Referrals & Student Support
Explore key campus resources like the Financial Aid Office, Writing Center, Career Center, and others. Our goal is to help you navigate the scholarship process with confidence and clarity.

The Moorpark College Foundation Scholarships are made possible by the generosity of Moorpark College faculty and staff, private citizens, and community donors who believe in the power of education.

These on-campus scholarships celebrate a wide range of student achievements and qualities—including academic performance, financial need, field of study, community involvement, leadership, and unique interests.

One Application, Many Opportunities

Moorpark College students can apply through the Spring 2025 Moorpark College Foundation Scholarship Application on the Scholarship Manager Website. By completing just one application, students are automatically considered for over 100 different scholarships.

Our system uses an algorithm to match your application with scholarships that fit your background, interests, and qualifications. This means that once you submit your application, you'll be considered for all scholarships for which you’re eligible—without needing to apply to each one individually. You can see a list of the scholarships in our program on the Scholarship Manager website. 

This scholarship program is offered annually, so it’s essential to plan ahead and apply during the designated window. The annual application cycle typically opens in early December and closes at the end of January. Award notifications are sent during the spring semester, and funds are disbursed in the incoming academic year. 
 

Behind the Scenes: Selection Process

After the deadline, scholarship committees carefully review matched applications and select recipients based on each donor’s unique criteria. Every scholarship is different—some emphasize grades, others focus on service, leadership, or personal background.

Award Notification & Next Steps

If you’re selected for a scholarship, you’ll be notified by email with instructions on how to proceed.

To receive your award, you must:

• Continue to meet the eligibility criteria for your specific scholarship, if applicable.

• Be enrolled for the Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 academic year.

  • Continuing students must be enrolled at Moorpark College.

  • Transferring students must provide their university Student ID Number. Scholarship funds will be sent directly to your transfer institution.

In addition, all recipients must complete the required agreement paperwork over the summer to ensure disbursement of funds.

• Application Opens: December 1, 2024, at 12:00 AM

• Application Closes: January 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM

• Review Period: February – March 2025

• Award Notifications: April 2025 (sent via email)

• Scholarship Award Ceremony: Late April 2025 (Awardees and donors are invited to attend)

• Fund Availability: Scholarship funds will be available after the Spring 2025 semester to support enrollment for the Fall 2025 – Spring 2026 academic year
  
  The 2026 timeline will be updated soon.

To ensure your application receives full consideration, follow these steps carefully:
 

Complete All Application Questions

• Answer every question in the application questionnaire to the best of your ability. Avoid leaving answers blank whenever possible. 

Upload Your Unofficial Transcript

• You’ll need a current unofficial transcript that includes your finalized Fall 2024 grades.
• Log in to your MyVCCCD portal. 
• Navigate to "Student Records" in the menu and select "Unofficial Academic Transcript." 
• Your unofficial transcript will open in a new webpage. 
• On the webpage, click the printer icon on the right-hand side, as if you were going to print it. 
• Instead of printing, select "Save as PDF" and download the file. Upload the downloaded PDF of your unofficial transcript to your scholarship application. 

Ask for a Recommendation

You’ll need at least one recommendation from someone who knows you in an academic or professional setting, such as a professor, counselor, supervisor, or coworker.

Here's How it Works: 

• Ask early: It’s best to ask your recommender as soon as the application opens (early December) or when you decide to apply. Ideally, give them at least two weeks’ notice. This helps, especially since faculty and staff can be busy during finals.
• Provide their info: Enter your recommender’s name and email address in the recommendation section of your application. Once you do, they’ll get an email with a special link and instructions.
• What they do: Your recommender will complete a short survey and may also upload a formal letter if they choose. They can submit either one or both—both are encouraged but not required. If your recommender doesn’t submit by the deadline, your application will still be reviewed; however, you might not be considered for scholarships that require a recommendation.
• Submit your application: You don’t have to wait for recommendations to be completed before submitting your application. Recommenders have a deadline a few days after yours to finish their part. 
• More recommenders: You can list up to three recommenders. It’s a good idea to have two or three and check in with them to make sure they submit on time.

Deadline: Recommendations for the 2025 application are due Feburary 5, 2025

Prepare your essays 

• Draft your essays in a separate document before pasting them into the application. This allows you to revise your writing and save a backup.
• Take your time—there’s a “Save” option in the application so you can return and finish later.
• Make sure your responses are thoughtful and reflect your personal voice. 
• Need help? Visit the Moorpark College Writing Center to get personalized assistance from a writing coach.

Draft your essays in a separate document 

• Draft your essays in a separate document before pasting them into the application. This allows you to revise your writing and save a backup.

• Take your time—there’s a “Save” option in the application so you can return and finish later.

• Make sure your responses are thoughtful and reflect your personal voice. 

Need help? 

• If you’d like assistance with your essays, contact the Moorpark College Writing Center to schedule an appointment with a writing coach. 

Mandatory General Essays 

There are five mandatory general essays, each with a maximum of 300 words. All applicants must complete these short essays in order to submit their application.

The prompts are: 

1. Educational Goals: Explain the relationship between your academic pursuits and career ambitions. What have you already accomplished, and what do you envision for your future? 
2. Campus Activities: Describe your involvement in campus life and its impact on your overall experience. What has it meant to you? 
3. Community Service: Describe your experience with community service. How has this involvement shaped your personal or professional aspirations? 
4. Financial Need: Tell us about a financial challenge you've faced during your education and how it has influenced your approach to your studies. 
5. Scholarship Impact: How would receiving this scholarship affect your educational journey? Please share your thoughts. 

Optional/Special Essays 

There are also optional special essays on the application to be considered for specific awards. Most of these scholarships have a 350-word minimum and a 600-word maximum. 

For a full list of eligibility requirements, please visit the list of scholarships offered on Scholarship Manager

• Brian Wolverton Anthropology Scholarship: State how you intend to use your knowledge of anthropology and/or archaeology to improve the lives of other people.  This essay should contain information about how you first became interested in anthropology.   Also, tell us how prior anthropology classes at Moorpark College have affected your thinking and how you intend to continue your studies.  Give examples of where you have used your anthropological knowledge to understand some aspect of your life and/or to improve the lives of others. This essay has a 600 word minimum and 1,200 word maximum
• Clean Power Alliance Voyager Scholarship: How are you active in environmental sustainability? 
• Psychology Department Scholarship: Describe how your experience with campus activities or community service relates to the field of Psychology. Psychology majors only. 
• ASMC Earn & Learn Scholarship
  • ASMC Scholarships are awarded as part of the organization's mission to support and empower fellow students. To ensure fairness and impartiality in the review process, all applications are evaluated anonymously. Do not include your name or any identifying information in the essays or resumes.
  • Provide an original response to each of the following prompts:
  • What motivated you to pursue work alongside your studies, and how has it influenced your academic or career goals?
  • Describe a typical day balancing work and school. What strategies do you use to manage your time?
  • How would receiving the Earn & Learn Scholarship contribute to your success?
• ASMC Global Opportunities Scholarship:
  • ASMC Scholarships are awarded as part of the organization's mission to support and empower fellow students. To ensure fairness and impartiality in the review process, all applications are evaluated anonymously. Do not include your name or any identifying information in the essay.
  • To be considered, applicants must provide an original response to 2 out of 3 of the following prompts: 
  • Describe a challenge you've faced as an undocumented, refugee, or international student. How has it impacted your educational journey?
  • How did your experiences (indirect or direct) growing up influence the student you are today?
  • Describe a person, class, or program at Moorpark College that has had a significant impact on you.
• Bruce Garber Legacy Scholarship: Describe how you uphold the values championed by Bruce Garber—intellectualism, human rights, social justice, civility, environmentalism, and respect for all life—in your educational journey. How do you plan to continue embodying these values in your personal and academic pursuits?
• George Floyd Memorial Scholarship: In what significant ways have you contributed to the uplift of the Black community or worked to improve race relations between Black and other ethnic groups?
• John and Daniel Sherwood Memorial Scholarship: Write a creative response describing a real or fictional travel story
• LGBTQIA+ Scholarship: Tell us about your relationship to the LGBTQIA+ community. Describe activities and/or education (formal or informal) that demonstrates your advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Multicultural Day Scholarship: In what ways have you promoted understanding among racial and ethnic groups?

Other Writing Prompts:

• Norman F. Garrow Jr. Creative Writing Scholarship: Submit an original work of creative writing. The writing can be fiction, poetry, or prose.
• Producer’s Choice Award: Submit an original 10-15 page script. FTMA majors only. 

• I cannot access the link or do not know where to apply
  • Apply online via the Scholarship Manager portal 
• Who can apply for Moorpark College Foundation Scholarships?  
  • Moorpark College students whose primary campus is Moorpark College. 
  • You MUST have a student ID number (900#) as an admitted student. 
• If my primary campus is Oxnard College or Ventura College, can I still apply?  
  • The Moorpark College Foundation prioritizes students whose primary campus is Moorpark College. 
  • Oxnard College and Ventura College students are encouraged to apply for scholarships at the Oxnard College Foundation and Ventura College Foundation.
• Are there opportunities for International students?
  • Yes! International Students are encouraged to apply. 
• Can I return to my scholarship application after I have started it?  
  • Yes, you can save your application progress and return to it. You must complete and submit your application before the deadline.
  • It is highly recommended to do your essays in a separate document and copy/paste it into the essay fields on the application rather than writing inside the application itself.
• Will there be an extension on the due date?  
  • No, there will not be an additional extension on the due date. Applications are due January 31, 2025.
  • Recommenders must get their recommendation in by February 5, 2025
• How do my references/recommenders submit a recommendation?
  • Applicants must provide the name and email address of at least one reference to complete the application. You may have up to three references.
  • Each reference will receive an automated email from our system containing a link and a PIN to submit their recommendation.
  • When a recommender clicks the link, they will enter the PIN and complete a short survey about your qualifications.
  • Recommenders may also choose to upload a letter of recommendation, though this is optional.
  • Once a recommendation is submitted, it will be automatically attached to your application.
  • Recommendations are due no later than February 5, 2025
• I am not sure how to answer one of the prompts or have questions about the application. Who do I talk to?  
  • Cristy Rodriguez Rivas, Scholarship Technician. You can reach Cristy at mcscholar@vcccd.edu  

There are so many scholarship opportunities out there!

In addition to our internal scholarship program, you can explore our Off-Campus Scholarship Opportunities page for scholarships that are not funded by the Moorpark College Foundation and scholarship search databases. 

Scholarships are a type of gift aid—money for college that you never have to pay back. They’re usually funded by private individuals, organizations, or foundations that want to invest in students' success and help them reach their goals.

Each scholarship is unique. Donors set their own eligibility criteria, which might be based on academics, personal background, field of study, special talents, or even shared values. Because every scholarship has its own application process and requirements, it’s important to explore the options and focus on the ones that are the best fit for you.

How are scholarships different from financial aid?
Think of them as two separate types of support:

• Scholarships are privately funded and have unique criteria, and that’s where the Scholarship Office can help—by guiding you to opportunities, assisting with applications, and answering your questions.

• Financial Aid refers to publicly funded programs like grants, loans, and work-study. The Financial Aid Office supports students with the FAFSA or California Dream Act (CADA) and manages those award packages.

And yes—you can apply for both! Combining scholarships and financial aid can make college much more affordable.

Lower Your College Expenses
Scholarships can help pay for tuition, books, and other school costs. Some also cover things like technology, transportation, or basic living expenses. Each scholarship is different, but they all help make college more affordable.

Enhance Your Résumé and Career Skills
Winning a scholarship is a great way to show your achievements on your résumé. Plus, applying for scholarships helps you build important skills like writing and organization that are useful for future jobs and job searches.

Combine Scholarships with Financial Aid
You can receive both scholarships and financial aid—they work together to support your education.

For questions about how scholarships may affect your specific financial aid package, please contact the Financial Aid Office at mcfa@vcccd.edu or (805) 378-1462

Scholarships come in all shapes and sizes—and many students are surprised by how many they’re actually eligible for. Depending on the scholarship donor, awards can reflect a wide range of values, achievements, and life experiences.

• 📚 Merit-Based
  These are awarded for academic achievement—things like a strong GPA, high test scores, honors coursework, or exceptional projects. If you’ve worked hard in school, merit scholarships are a great place to start.
• 🎭 Talent-Based
  Got a skill or passion? Talent scholarships recognize abilities in areas like music, art, theater, athletics, or even public speaking. You may need to audition or submit a portfolio or video to apply.
• 🌍 Community Service & Leadership
  If you’ve volunteered, served in your community, or taken on leadership roles (in clubs, organizations, or your personal life), you could qualify for scholarships that reward your impact and initiative.
• 🌈 Identity & Values-Based
  Many scholarships are created to support students from specific backgrounds or those who share the values of the scholarship donor. These may be based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, LGBTQ+ status, first-generation college status, religion, veteran status, foster youth experience, or life experiences that align with the mission of the donor. It’s not just about who you are, but also what you care about.
• 💸 Need-Based
  These scholarships focus on financial need and are often meant to help students from low-income households afford college. They may ask for information like your FAFSA or household income to determine eligibility.

The bottom line?
There’s no single “type” of scholarship recipient. Whether your strength is academics, creativity, leadership, service, or simply your story—you have something to offer. Keep looking for scholarships that reflect who you are, and you’ll be more likely to find the right fit.

🔍 Search Online

Scholarship search databases work a lot like job boards—they help you find matches based on your background, interests, and goals.

• Use filters to narrow results by major, identity, location, or personal experiences.

• Keep track of deadlines and materials (essays, transcripts, letters, etc.).

• Visit our Off-Campus Scholarships page to explore a list of scholarships and databases.
   

🤝 Tap Into Your Network

Your existing connections might lead to scholarships you didn’t even know existed.

• Clubs, jobs, and community organizations you’re already part of often offer scholarships to their members.

• Ask people around you—professors, coaches, mentors, or supervisors—if they know of opportunities or professional groups that support students like you.

These connections can also help you find organizations that align with your goals and values.
 

✉️ Expand Your Reach

Want to take it a step further? Reach out beyond your immediate network.

• Contact nonprofits, local businesses, or professional associations in your field of interest—they may offer scholarships or other support.

• Write a networking letter: A short, professional email introducing yourself, your goals, and asking if they know of scholarship opportunities. Even if they don’t, they may refer you to someone who does.

These outreach efforts can lead to scholarships, internships, mentorship, or future job leads.
 

🎓 Ask Your School

Moorpark College Foundation Scholarships
These on-campus scholarships are generously funded by donors who want to support Moorpark students. The application period opens each year in early December and closes at the end of January. It’s a great place to start your scholarship journey.
👉 Check out our guide

Scholarships at Transfer Institutions

If you plan to transfer, check with the university’s scholarship or financial aid office. Many schools offer awards specifically for incoming transfer students—and some even have automatic consideration when you apply.

Winning scholarships isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation, strategy, and putting your best self forward. Here are some key tips to help you stand out:
 

🗂️ Get Organized

It’s totally normal to feel a bit overwhelmed when you start looking into scholarships. One of the best ways to make it more manageable is to create an organizational system that works for you. Everyone’s approach might look a little different, but the key is to stay on top of important details like deadlines, application steps, and essay requirements. A solid plan can make the process less stressful—and help you stay focused and confident as you apply.

Try this three-step strategy:

1. Block off time for research.
   Spend one focused session just searching for scholarships. As you go, write down the key details for each one—like the scholarship name, website link, deadline, and what the application requires (essay, letter of recommendation, transcript, etc.). This list will be your roadmap.

2. Plan your calendar based on your list.
   In a separate session, look over your list and plug the deadlines and prep tasks into your calendar. This way, you can map out when to start drafts, request letters, or gather materials—and avoid any last-minute scrambles.

3. Repeat Regularly
   Set aside time to repeat this process—whether it's once a week, once a month, or whenever your schedule allows. The more consistently you return to your list, the more opportunities you’ll find and apply for. Revisiting your plan also gives you a chance to adjust based on any changes in your goals, availability, or new scholarship opportunities that come up.

Taking it step by step helps you maximize your time and stay on top of everything. Plus, it makes the whole process feel way more manageable!

✍️ Write Strong Essays

Many scholarships will ask you to write an essay about your goals, challenges, or values. Here’s how to make yours shine:

• Use your voice. Be authentic. Committees want to know who you are—your story, your dreams, your unique perspective.

• Connect your goals. Share how the scholarship will support your academic and career plans.

• Don’t go it alone. Have someone read your essays for proofreading, clarity, and flow. You can visit the Moorpark College Writing Center for personalized essay assistance. 
   

💌 Get Great Recommendations

Some scholarships require letters of recommendation or reference forms. These are your chance to show who you are through someone else’s eyes.

Tips for strong recommendations:

• Ask someone who knows you in an academic or professional context (like a professor, coach, supervisor, or counselor).

• Make the ask early—at least two weeks before the deadline.

• Provide details about the scholarship and your goals so they can write a personalized letter.

• Always say thank you! A quick thank-you email goes a long way.

For the Moorpark College Foundation Scholarships, your recommender will fill out a short online form—not a full letter.
 

🔁 Apply Often

The more scholarships you apply for, the more chances you have to win! Don’t just go for the big national awards—small and local scholarships often have fewer applicants and better odds.

Navigating scholarships and college finances doesn't have to be a solo journey. Moorpark College offers a range of campus resources to support you through every step of the scholarship process — and beyond.

🎓 Scholarship Office

Your go-to for help with scholarship strategies, application tips, and both on-campus and external opportunities.
Phone: (805) 378-1418
Email: mcscholar@vcccd.edu
Location: Fountain Hall (FH) 210-C (upstairs)

💰 Financial Aid Office

Helps you understand FAFSA, grants, loans, and how scholarships fit into your full financial aid package.Assists with FAFSA, grants, loans, and how scholarships fit into your financial picture.
Phone: (805) 378-1462
Text Hotline: (877) 822-0435
Email: mcfa@vcccd.edu
Location: Fountain Hall (FH) 210-B

✍️ Writing Center

Offers one-on-one coaching to help you write clear, powerful scholarship essays.Offers personalized feedback to help you write compelling scholarship essays.
Phone: (805) 553-4850
Email: mcwritingcenter@vcccd.edu, WCEmailEssay@gmail.com
Location: Library Learning Resources (LL) 322

🏦 Student Business Office

Answers questions about student fees, payment plans, and managing your college finances.
Phone: (805) 378-1437
Email: mcsbo@vcccd.edu
Location: Fountain Hall (FH) 114

💼 Career Center

Prepares you for job and scholarship interviews, résumés, and long-term career planning.
Phone: (805) 378-1540
Email: mccareercenter@vcccd.edu
Location: Fountain Hall (FH) 112A
 

Additional Student Support Programs

Specialized programs offer academic and financial support — including access to exclusive scholarships and grants.

✨ Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS)

Supports eligible full-time students with counseling, book assistance, priority registration, and letters of recommendation.
Phone: (805) 378-1464
Text Hotline: (833) 942-4827
Email: mceops@vcccd.edu
Location: Student Services Annex (SS) 107A

♿ Accessibility Coordination Center and Educational Support Services (ACCESS)

Helps students with verified disabilities access academic accommodations and a scholarship exclusively for ACCESS members.
Phone: (805) 378-1461
Video Phone: (805) 222-4583
Email: mcaccess@vcccd.edu
Location: LM Building, Ground Floor

🎗️ Veterans Resource Center

Supports veterans, active duty members, and families with GI Bill® help, priority registration, and academic planning.
Phone: (805) 553-4106
Text Hotline: (833) 451-3403
Email: mcvetdesk01@vcccd.edu
Location: Student Services Annex (SS) 108

🦋 DREAMers

Supports undocumented students and those from mixed-status families with legal services, workshops, and a network of allies. You’re not alone — we’re here for you.
Email: mcdreamers@vcccd.edu

❓ Not sure where to start?

Explore the full Student Services Directory to find what fits your needs.