Eight students sitting in a study lounge, computers open, talking and laughing

Leadership Fellows Program

Cal State Monterey Bay is proud to invite you to apply for the Leadership & Service Fellows Program. More than just a scholarship, this program honors, and provides extensive support, to first-year students in the Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz counties who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their communities.

We know that leadership is not always about titles—it's about passion, resilience, empathy, and initiative. This year, 100 students are being selected to join a prestigious cohort—those who have balanced academics with responsibilities like leadership in clubs or activities, part-time jobs, caregiving, student government or community activism.

Apply by July 14 and join a community that believes in your potential. All students who apply will receive free enrollment confirmation—no need to pay the $100 deposit.

Program Overview

Scholarship & Award

Students will earn the following (based on demonstrated financial need):

$2,000 in grants ($500/yr for 4 years)* or a one-time grant of $500–$1500

*Available to First Year students only

All students, regardless of award, will also receive:

A personal laptop and a backpack
Access to a supportive cohort of students based on shared experience and collective drive
Access to an exclusive leadership seminar series, where students will connect with campus mentors, build leadership skills, and develop their voice as change-makers

Eligibility

To be considered, students must:

Be admitted to CSUMB for Fall 2025
Submit their Enrollment Confirmation
- All students who apply for the Leadership Fellows Program will receive a free Enrollment Confirmation Fee Waiver
File a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA)

Contact Us

Questions or concerns? Please contact leadershipfellows@csumb.edu for more information about the CSUMB Leadership and Service Fellows Program