Paying for college with scholarships

At Golden 1, we believe in the power of education. By supporting students on their educational journeys, we empower them to create meaningful change for their families, communities, and beyond.

Every year we award Golden 1 scholarships to deserving California students. To date, we have awarded nearly $4.5 million to 550 deserving students since 2013. We encourage every prospective college student to explore and apply for a wide range of scholarships.

Why scholarships matter

Scholarship programs are about more than financial aid. They’re about investing in the next generation of leaders, producers, caregivers, and educators.

Reducing student debt: College tuition is higher than ever, leaving many students and their families grappling with long-term debt. Scholarships help offset these costs, allowing students to graduate with less – or no – debt. This financial relief lets graduates focus on building their futures without the heavy weight of student loans.

Easing the burden on families: Higher education often requires sacrifices from parents and guardians. Scholarships help families balance their expenditures while ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive. 

Covering basic living expenses: Scholarships don't just cover tuition. They can also help with housing, food, and transportation. This support lets students concentrate on their studies with fewer everyday financial pressures.

Better academic performance: Financial concerns can distract students from their primary goal – learning. Scholarships reduce these worries, helping students dedicate themselves fully to their education.

Professional advantages: Scholarships also have a lasting impact on a student’s career. Listing scholarships on a resume demonstrates academic excellence, dedication, and commitment. These attributes help students stand out from their peers in a competitive job market.

Golden 1 scholarships

At Golden 1, we're excited to help our members and their dependents achieve their academic dreams.

Eligible students must attend two-year or four-year nonprofit accredited colleges and universities in California.

To qualify you must:

• Have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0
• Have a minimum of 24 hours of community service OR have a minimum of 24 hours of work experience in the past 12 months
• Be a Golden 1 member, or dependent of a member*
• Attend or plan to attend an accredited nonprofit, two-year community college or four-year college/university in California as a full-time student

Visit Golden1.com/scholarships to check the application availability window and learn more.

Golden 1 scholarship applicants talk about their goals:

I aspire to be a role model for my younger siblings – someone that they can look up to, who they can depend upon when difficulties strike, and be the positive influence in their lives that encourages them to achieve their aspirations.  — Majhema F., San Joaquin Valley College Student

After graduation, I plan to continue pursuing my passion by studying law and finding new ways to support the people who need support the most. — Leah N., Grant High School Graduate

Life is a walk that is not meant to be done alone and someday I want to be that person who can open a door for someone else. — Jenna Y., UC Santa Barbara Student

This scholarship would make a huge impact for my future and would give me the launching pad to help me succeed and help me become the best that I could be. — Braden R., CSU Fresno student

2024 Golden 1 scholarship recipients celebrate

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Resources: Learning about scholarships

Check out our free¹ online resources for more information.

College Financing 101: Visit Golden 1’s On Demand Webcasts and scroll to College Financing 101

Scholarship Search: A customizable search engine presented by our Learning Lab² 

College financing learning modules: List of related Learning Lab materials


By selecting any link to third party content, you will enter a website that Golden 1 does not control. We have provided these links for your convenience, but we are not responsible for the content, links, or the privacy or security policies of these websites.

*Student or parent/guardian must be a Golden 1 member as of January 31, 2025, listed as the member/owner of the account. Student recipients who applied as dependents and are not already Golden 1 members must open a Golden 1 membership as the primary account holder (member/owner) before the scholarship funds are disbursed.
¹Message and data rates may apply. Check with your mobile provider.
²Learning Lab site requires registration.