Scholarship Tips

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Tips

Personal Statement

Letter of Recommendation

Thank You Letter

How to Identify Scams

Frequently Asked Questions

When are MiraCosta scholarship applications open? 
The Annual Scholarship Application is typically open from July 15-September 15 each year. These scholarships are for fall awards.

Spring scholarships are typically open from January 鈥� late February/early March. These applications are for spring awards.

There may be off-cycle applications available, like the Tri City Nursing Scholarship or Brother Benno Scholarships.

All scholarships are posted on the website: /student-services/financial-aid/types-of-aid/scholarships/mcc-scholarships.html

When will students hear about their applications?
Reviews are not stated until after the scholarship applications have closed. Typical review time is 3-4 weeks.

Reviews should be completed by November for fall, and mid/late April for spring.

Are Students notified whether they receive a scholarship or not?
Yes. Students will be notified whether they were awarded or not.

How will I receive my scholarship award?
Scholarships are paid by direct deposit through BankMobile. If you already have BankMobile set up for other financial aid payment, we will use the same account.

When will scholarship funds be disbursed?
For fall, awards are expected to begin disbursing in late October or early November, after students submit their required thank-you letters and donor questionnaires.

For spring, awards are expected to begin disbursing in late April or early May, after students submit their required thank-you letters and donor questionnaires.

We disburse scholarships every other week throughout the semester. Individual disbursement  dates depend on when funds are awarded and all required items, like thank you letters, are complete. 

What do students need to do to receive scholarship funds?
Students must submit their required thank-you letters and donor questionnaires to receive scholarship funds.

Who can apply for a MiraCosta Scholarship?
MiraCosta scholarships are open to all students, including international and undocumented students.

How do I know if I qualify for a scholarship?
MiraCosta scholarships have varying requirements. All scholarships require a minimum of 6 units of enrollment and a cumulative 2.0 GPA. However, there are some that have higher unit or GPA requirements or may require participation in a specific major or program. Our Scholarship Guide contains information regarding each scholarship and their requirements.

Private scholarships will each have their own specific set of requirements for eligibility.

How many scholarships can I receive?
Students are encouraged to apply for as many MiraCosta and private scholarships as they are eligible for.

How much are the scholarship awards?
MiraCosta College awards range 500-1,000, and higher depending on funding and donations.

Is the scholarship award money only for school?
Scholarship awards can be used for any school related expense.  

Do scholarship funds pay a student鈥檚 account balance?
No. Scholarship funds are not used to pay a balance on a student鈥檚 account unless the scholarship specifically requires it (this is rare). Students will receive the full scholarship amount and are responsible for paying any balance due.

Where can students find other scholarship opportunities?
Partner and external scholarships are posted on the website. they have different requirements and closing dates throughout the year.

When do other scholarship applications open?
Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship: Open every fall
San Diego Foundation Scholarship: Open every winter
Tri-City Nursing Scholarship: Open every fall/winter

What should a student do if they received a check from their high school or a third party organization?
Scholarship checks should be made out to MiraCosta and include the student鈥檚 ID number and name. Checks can be delivered to the Scholarship Office for processing.

How are private scholarship checks handled?
We continue to receive private scholarship checks every week throughout the year. Disbursements are ongoing, and comments will be added as checks are received.

When are private scholarships disbursed?
Typical processing time is approximately 10-15 business days for private scholarships.

How many scholarships can I receive?
Students are encouraged to apply for as many MiraCosta College scholarships they are eligible for as well as other third-party scholarships.

Why do I need to write a Personal Statement?
The Personal Statement provides the Awards & Scholarships Committee with important information about you when comparing scholarship applicants for an award.  MiraCosta students are encouraged to visit the Writing Center for assistance.

Can I use the same Personal Statement for other scholarships?
Yes, but you may want to update your Personal Statement to match the questions asked and to reflect your current situation; such as, changes in your financial status, employment, new volunteer or club activities, etc. 

Can I turn in my scholarship application early, before the deadline date?
Yes, the deadline date is the last day scholarship applications are accepted; late applications will not be processed. 

I am still in high school, when can I apply for a MiraCosta scholarships?
The Annual Application (open July-September) is open to recent high school graduates with a cumulative 2.0 or better Grade Point Average (GPA).

What are the scholarship awards?
MiraCosta College awards range $500-$2500, or higher depending on donors鈥� donations.

Is the scholarship award money only for school?
Scholarship funds can be used for any school related expense. Some scholarships may have restrictions, the Donor or Scholarship Office would notify the student if this is the case. 

Is the scholarship award check mailed to me?
Scholarships are paid by direct deposit through BankMobile. 

Why do I need to write a thank you letter?
Donors expect and appreciate receiving a thank you letter from their scholarship recipients and especially like to know how this award will help with your education.  Donors do not select the scholarship recipients and this is an opportunity for you to share your education and career goals and tell them what the scholarship means to you.  Many donors comment that student thank you letters inspire them to continue to give money to MiraCosta College.  If you need assistance in writing the letter, please visit the Writing Center or Scholarship office. 

Who do I contact if I have a question?
Call or visit the Welcome Center (760) 795-6620, Bldg 14. , Oceanside Campus.