The purpose of this program is to encourage multi-cultural understanding and increase diversity among public school faculty by recruiting individuals from underrepresented ethnic and social groups. This program awards scholarships to graduate students who are pursuing teaching credentials, certificates, master’s degrees, and or doctoral degrees.

Scholarship Requirements

To be eligible for the Diversity Scholarship Program, the following criteria must be satisfied:

• Graduate student from an underrepresented ethnic and/or social group who is pursuing a teaching credential, certificate, master’s degree, and/or doctoral degree in the School of Leadership and Education Sciences.
• Must be and remain in good academic standing each semester as per the University of San Diego’s Graduate Bulletin and program requirements.
• Must demonstrate financial need.
• Consideration will be given to students pursuing careers in K-16 education.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
  • We understand some international students may be unable to complete the FAFSA. Please simply note that on your scholarship application.

Application Procedures

1. Complete the Scholarship Application Form
2. Submit the Required Essay
   • Written Responses: Please address each of the following three areas:
   1. Describe what factors [i.e, professional/volunteer work experience, heritage, family, and/or role models] have influenced your field of study and professional goals.
   2. What kind of contribution(s) do you expect to make to your field of study, community, or society as a whole?
   3. Describe any special circumstances with regards to your financial need.
3. Letter of Recommendation from a current or former professor. This letter should address your academic performance. Please have your recommender email the letter to soles.scholarships@gmail.com and be sure they include "Diversity Scholarship" in the Subject Line.

Application Form