The Ascend Scholarship: Empowering Underrepresented Students at UC San Diego. The funders of the Ascend Scholarship grantor values the importance of higher education and believes every student- regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status- should be afforded the ability to pursue a college degree.
Table of Contents
1. Overview
2. Key Scholarship Details
– Eligibility Criteria
– Scholarship Benefits
– Renewability & Continuation Requirements
3. Application Process & Timeline
– Key Dates
– How to Apply
4.Why Apply for the Ascend Scholarship?
5.Final Thoughts
Overview
The Ascend Scholarship is a prestigious financial aid program designed to support underrepresented students pursuing higher education at the University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego). Funded by passionate advocates of equitable education, this scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for minority and first-generation college students, enabling them to focus on academic success and leadership development.
With an application period from April 29 to May 23, 2025, the Ascend Scholarship provides awards ranging up to $4,000, renewable for qualifying students. Below is a detailed breakdown of the scholarship’s eligibility, benefits, and application process.
Key Scholarship Details
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Ascend Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Requirement
Academic Status: Graduating high school seniors or community college transfer students planning to enroll full-time at UC San Diego
Ethnic Background: Members of an underrepresented racial or ethnic group.
Financial Need: Demonstrated financial need (verified through FAFSA or other financial aid documentation)
Minimum GPA: Unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale
Enrollment Commitment: Must maintain full-time enrollment at UC San Diego if awarded.
Scholarship Benefits
The Ascend Scholarship provides substantial financial support, which can be applied to various educational expenses:
Covered Expenses
Tuition & Fees: Helps offset the cost of university tuition and mandatory fees.
Books & Supplies: Provides funds for textbooks, course materials, and academic resources.
Room & Board: Assists with housing and meal plan expenses. |
Other Educational Costs: May include transportation, technology, or study abroad fees (case-by-case basis). |
Renewability & Continuation Requirements
The scholarship is renewable for up to four years for high school seniors or two years for transfer students, contingent upon meeting the following criteria:
Renewal Requirement
Academic Performance: Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA each academic year.
Full-Time Enrollment: Remain enrolled as a full-time UC San Diego student.
Good Citizenship: Exhibit positive conduct and engagement in campus/community activities.
Continued Financial Need: Must still demonstrate financial need in subsequent years.
Application Process & Timeline
Application Opens: April 29, 2025
Application Deadline: May 23, 2025 (11:59 PM PST)
Award Notifications: Mid-July 2025 (estimated)
Disbursement of Funds: Fall 2025 (applied to student accounts)
How to Apply
1. Obtain Application Materials:
– Email: scholarships@sdfoundation.org to request the application form and guidelines.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
– Proof of enrollment at UC San Diego (acceptance letter).
– Official high school or college transcripts.
– Financial aid documentation (FAFSA, CSS Profile, or equivalent).
– Personal statement (topic provided in application).
3. Submit Before Deadline:
– Ensure all materials are submitted by May 23, 2025.
Why Apply for the Ascend Scholarship?
– Financial Relief: Reduces student debt by covering essential college costs.
– Long-Term Support: Renewable for multiple years with consistent eligibility.
– Dedicated to Diversity: Prioritizes underrepresented students, fostering inclusivity in higher education.
– Academic & Professional Growth: Encourages leadership and entrepreneurial spirit.
Award Statistics
Average Number of Awards: 10-12 students annually
Average Award Amount: $4,000 per recipient
Final Thoughts
The Ascend Scholarship is more than just financial aid it’s an investment in the future of high-achieving, underrepresented students at UC San Diego. By removing economic barriers, this program empowers scholars to excel academically, contribute to their communities, and become tomorrow’s leaders.
Contact Information
For questions or application assistance, reach out to:
📧 Email: scholarships@sdfoundation.org
🌐 Website: www.sdfoundation.org