Bill H. James Foundation for Aspiring African American Engineers
Scholarship Sponsored by Bill H. James Foundation
Introduction
Our scholarship programs are designed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of qualified students across California. Both our undergraduate and graduate awards are unique and have a history of transforming recipients’ academic and professional paths. We maintain ongoing relationships with past awardees and frequently hear remarkable success stories that began with this support.
General Scholarship Eligibility (2024–2025)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Be enrolled in, and pursuing, a degree or course of study in an engineering program at an accredited college or university located in California.
- Undergraduate applicants must be entering their junior or senior year during the 2024–2025 academic year and be registered for at least 12 units per semester/quarter.
- Graduate applicants must have at least two academic semesters remaining to complete their graduate degree during the 2024–2025 academic year and be enrolled in at least 8 units per semester/quarter.
- Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0.
The Bill H. James Foundation — A Scholarship Fund for Aspiring African American Engineers
This fund supports African American students pursuing engineering degrees.
Bill H. James Foundation Eligibility (2025–2026)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Be enrolled in an engineering program at an accredited four-year college or university in California.
- Undergraduate applicants must be entering their junior or senior year during the 2025–2026 academic year and carry a minimum of 12 units per semester/quarter.
- Graduate applicants must have at least two academic semesters (or one academic year) remaining to complete their master’s degree during the 2025–2026 academic year and be enrolled in at least 8 units per semester/quarter.
- Minimum cumulative GPA: 3.0.
Application Checklist
1. Complete and submit the online Scholarship Application form.
2. Upload a single combined PDF containing all supporting materials:
- (Optional) One signed reference letter from a college professor or employer on official letterhead.
- Unofficial college/university transcripts. If you are not currently enrolled, include your acceptance letter.
- A professional headshot.
- Current resume.
- A 1–2 page essay describing an engineering project you hope to develop in the future and explaining how greater diversity in the engineering field could improve that project.
3. Confirm that all documents are merged into ONE PDF before final submission.
If you have questions about eligibility or the application process, please contact the scholarship office for assistance.