Scholarship Award • 10 one-time scholarships of $500
• Funds released after proof of enrollment in a college, university, trade school, or accredited post-secondary program
Eligibility:Applicants must:
• Be a graduating senior at San Marcos High School
• Have a minimum GPA of 2.5
• Demonstrate leadership, integrity, and community involvement
• Plan to continue their education after high school Application Timeline
• Applications Open: February 10
• Application Deadline:
April 20, 2026 (11:59 PM). Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Requirements:Students must submit
all of the following:
• Online Application
• Please use a personal email address(non-SMUSD).
• Personal Essay (500 words or less).
Choose one prompt: AI-generated writing is not permitted.
- Tell us who you are. What experiences, values, or challenges have shaped you, and what are your goals after graduation.
- Describe an activity, class, job, organization, or responsibility that has been especially meaningful to you.
• Unofficial Transcript
• Letter of Recommendation: from a teacher, counselor, coach, employer, advisor, or community leader (letters from relatives will not be accepted.)
Selection CriteriaScholarships will be awarded based on:
• Academic performance
• Leadership & community involvement
• Extracurriculars, work, or family responsibilities
• Essay quality
• Letter of recommendation
Recipients will be notified in the spring.
Scholarships may be presented at Senior Awards or distributed afterward.
Important Notes:
Students may receive only one PTO scholarship from within the San Marcos Unified School District per school year.
Proof of enrollment is required before funds are released
