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Scholarships and Giving

Your gift fuels scholarships, capstone grants and campus traditions that expand opportunity and empower Otters to lead and make a difference.

Monte Rey, CSUMB mascot, posing in front of the Alumni and Visitor Center Building
Alumni

Invest in Student Success

Giving to Cal State Monterey Bay expands opportunity for today’s students and tomorrow’s leaders. Your support helps students stay on track to earn their degrees, pursue their goals and graduate prepared to make a difference.

As the university grows in impact and recognition, the value of every Otter degree rises. Alumni and community support play a vital role in shaping the future of Cal State Monterey Bay — strengthening programs, enhancing student experiences and leading the university into its next chapter.

You can direct your gift to the area that matters most to you, and many employers offer matching gift programs that may double your impact. Gifts may also be tax-deductible; consult your tax professional for guidance. Giving is simple and secure, with one-time and recurring monthly options available.

How Your Gift Makes a Difference

Every gift — no matter the size — is an investment in student potential. Private support enhances scholarships, academic programs and hands-on learning experiences that state funding alone cannot provide.

Your generosity fuels continued growth, strengthens our Otter community and expands access to a transformative, inclusive education. Together, we turn vision into action — creating opportunity, supporting student success and serving our region and beyond.

Giving Opportunities

It Otter Happen — With You

A nine-foot bronze otter now stands at the heart of Cal State Monterey Bay — a symbol of pride, community and possibility.

The Otter Statue is more than a landmark. It’s a place where new traditions begin: snapping a first-day selfie, touching the bronze paw for good luck before finals, celebrating Commencement and gathering as an Otter Raft.

Now, you can become part of that legacy.

Leave Your Mark

At the base of the statue, a limited number of engraved bricks are available. Each brick represents a lasting investment in Cal State Monterey Bay and the students who will shape our future.

Your personalized brick will:

  • Celebrate your time at Cal State Monterey Bay

  • Honor a family member, mentor or graduate

  • Recognize your business or organization

  • Demonstrate your belief in accessible, transformative higher education

Four giving levels are available, each corresponding to a different brick size. Gifts may be made as a one-time contribution or fulfilled through a pledge over one or two years, depending on the level.

Join the Otter Raft

Be part of a tradition that will welcome generations of students to campus. Secure your engraved brick and cement your place in Cal State Monterey Bay history.

Reserve Your Brick

Cal State Monterey Bay alumni believe in investing in student success. Through scholarships and capstone grants, the Alumni Association helps Otters stay focused on their goals and graduate prepared to make a difference.

Alumni Scholarships

Each year, the Alumni Association awards $5,000 in scholarships to support current students. These awards help reduce financial barriers and expand access to a transformative education.

Students can apply through the Financial Aid Office.

View current scholarship opportunities.

Capstone Grants

To support seniors completing their culminating experience, the Alumni Association awards capstone grants of up to $500 each semester. These grants help offset project expenses so students can fully bring their ideas to life.

The Alumni and Visitors Center

We’re Here to Help

Have questions or want to get involved? We’re here to help you stay connected and engaged with the Otter community.

Request Your Transcripts

We’re happy to assist with getting your official transcripts ordered.

Request Transcripts

Contact

Alumni Relations