Ventura County launches $2 million scholarship program for college students

The Thousand Oaks City Council convened on April 29, 2025, to discuss various community initiatives, with a significant focus on the scholarship program administered by the city. The meeting highlighted the application process, outreach efforts, and the financial structure of the scholarship program, which has seen substantial growth in recent years.

The scholarship application period typically opens in late October or early November and remains open until January. Applicants, primarily high school seniors and current college students, must submit two references and a transcript, along with responses to approximately 100 questions regarding their academic and community involvement. The program has a robust volunteer base, with 208 community members participating in the review process for 1,291 applications this year. Each application is evaluated by three readers, and the highest-scoring applicants are selected for awards, which can reach a maximum of $10,000 per year.

This year marked a milestone, as the program allocated over $2 million in scholarships, reflecting its growth from previous years. Awardees received notifications via email, prompting them to confirm their acceptance and provide proof of enrollment for the upcoming fall semester. The scholarships are sent directly to educational institutions rather than to the students themselves.

Outreach efforts to promote the scholarship program include presentations at local high schools and community colleges, as well as a strong social media campaign. The city council members emphasized the importance of these outreach initiatives in increasing awareness and participation in the program.

Additionally, the council discussed the criteria for demonstrating financial need, which aligns with California's financial aid guidelines. Applicants answer three questions to establish their eligibility without needing to provide extensive financial documentation.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the sustainability of the scholarship program, noting that it is designed as an endowed scholarship, ensuring its continuation into the future. The council expressed optimism about the program's impact on local students and the community at large.