1. PREPARE YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENTS
The application will require you to write a few statements that allow us to get to know you. If you complete them now, you'll be ahead of the game. 

Personal Statement
In 400 to 600 words, tell us about yourself. Be sure to include your academic and career goals. Feel free to share details about your life that will allow us to understand what is unique about you. We want to know why you should receive an award. We also want to know how you would use the scholarship funds, should you receive them. Be sure to write at least 400 words.

Financial Hardship
Are you experiencing any financial hardship? If so, in 300 words or less, tell us why and how it affects your life. Many of our scholarships are need-based, so be specific. Financial hardship can come in many forms: inability to pay for tuition, books, a computer, childcare, meals, transportation, and your home.

Community Service
Do you volunteer your time in a manner that helps others? If so, we want to know about it. In 200 words or less, describe your motivation for service. Why do you participate? How have these experiences made a positive impact on your life?

2. REQUEST A LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION FROM TWO REFERENCES
These two references will be contacted via email as part of your scholarship application and will be asked to write a letter of recommendation for you.  As a courtesy, speak with your references in advance and ask them for permission before submitting their names and contact information. Appropriate people to approach for a letter of recommendation include a teacher, coach, supervisor, employer, community leader, or mentor. 

All letters of recommendation must be received online through AwardSpring by the application deadline.

Consider providing your reference contact with a copy of your personal statement, transcript, or resume. This helps them prepare a strong letter of recommendation.

3. GET A COPY OF YOUR UNOFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT.
All scholarship applicants must upload a PDF version of their unofficial transcript from Cerritos College. You can access your transcripts from the MyCerritos portal.