CalHOPE Courage Award Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by CalHOPE
CalHOPE Courage Award Scholarship Program — Summary
The CalHOPE Courage Award Scholarship Program will distribute a total of $75,000 to California high school senior student‑athletes and their school athletic programs. Twenty‑five (25) graduating seniors will each receive a $2,500 college scholarship, and their high school athletic departments will each receive a $500 contribution.
The initiative is administered through CalHOPE and supported by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). The program also carries the endorsement of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF).
Who may apply
- California high school seniors (public, private, or charter) who are expected to graduate in 2026.
- Applicants must participate in varsity interscholastic athletics.
- Candidates should have experienced and overcome personal adversity — for example, stress, anxiety, or mental health challenges related to injury, illness, family hardship, academic pressure, or similar difficulties.
Application timeline and selection
- The program uses a rolling selection process; students are encouraged to submit their applications early to be eligible for the greatest number of monthly draws.
- Scholarships are awarded monthly from September through June.
- The application window closes on May 1, 2026.
- You do not need to wait until your senior sports season concludes to apply. Selection is primarily driven by your personal adversity story rather than athletic accomplishments.
Awards schedule
- Monthly recipients will be chosen between September and June. Applying sooner increases your chances of being selected in one of the monthly awards.