Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t live in Southern California. Can I apply?
Not at this time. The scholarship is currently open only to students attending high school in Orange County or Los Angeles County, California. Note that this applies to where you attend high school — scholars may attend college anywhere. We hope to expand to more regions in the future.
My counselor nominated me. Do I still need to apply?
Yes. A nomination is an endorsement, not an application. Nominated students must submit the full student application — essays, video introduction, transcript, and required documents — before the application deadline. Your counselor’s nomination will be attached to your application for the committee’s review.
Can I apply without a nomination?
Yes. A counselor nomination is not required. Any eligible student may apply directly through the student application. Nominations strengthen an application but their absence does not count against you.
How long should the essays be?
The Personal Story & Strengths Essay should be 500–750 words. The “Make Things Happen” essay should be 300–500 words. The Leadership / Activities Summary should be 250–400 words.
Can college students apply?
No. Applicants should apply before starting college. High school seniors in their graduating year and juniors applying one year before graduation are eligible.
Does the student need to be admitted to college?
Final award confirmation generally requires admission to a strong college or university.
How much is the award?
$5,000 USD per year for 4 years. Exceptional scholars may receive $10,000 USD per year for 4 years.
How are funds paid?
Scholarship funds are generally paid directly to the school for qualified educational expenses.
Is financial need required?
Financial need is not the only factor, but financially disadvantaged students may receive priority consideration.
Are any majors excluded?
No. Students may pursue any field of study.
Is a video introduction required?
Yes. Applicants should submit a video introduction of at least 5 minutes through the application form as a private link. The video helps the committee hear the student’s real voice and story.
Should students email video files?
No. Large video files should not be sent by email. Students should provide a private viewable link, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, YouTube Unlisted, Vimeo, or a secure application portal link.
Can students use AI to write the essay?
No. Essays and written responses must be the applicant’s own original work. AI-generated, AI-rewritten, or AI-polished essays are not permitted and may result in disqualification.
Are Scholar Dinners required?
Yes. Bedrock plans to host two Scholar Dinners each year — one in the summer and one near year-end. Scholars must attend at least one of the two dinners each year, share their progress and experiences, and stay connected with the Bedrock Scholars Community.
What happens if a scholar does not attend a dinner?
Failure to attend at least one annual Scholar Dinner without prior approval may result in cancellation of future scholarship eligibility and future scholarship installments.
Can Bedrock Scholars apply for internships?
Yes. Each year, Bedrock may open internship and career exploration opportunities. Bedrock Scholars may apply early, subject to role availability, qualifications, and Bedrock approval.
What is the Full Ride Policy?
If a selected Bedrock Scholar has already received a full scholarship or full financial aid package, Bedrock may support approved enrichment projects instead of duplicating tuition payment.
What are the renewal requirements?
Scholars must remain enrolled, stay in good standing, maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher, attend at least one Bedrock Scholars Dinner each year, submit an annual update, and avoid serious misconduct.
What are the 2026–2027 dinner dates?
The planned dates are December 19, 2026 for the year-end dinner and June 5, 2027 for the semester-end dinner. Scholars must attend at least one.
Can Bedrock use a scholar’s photo or story?
Only with appropriate consent. If the scholar is under 18, parent or guardian consent is required before Bedrock publicly uses the scholar’s name, school, story, photo, or video.
When are interviews and awards announced?
Finalist interviews are planned for August 15, 2026. Award announcement is planned for August 30, 2026. Nomination and application deadlines will be announced.