California Private Scholarship Programs
California private scholarship programs are supported by these nonprofit organizations which provide need-based scholarships to help families afford private school education.
The BASIC Fund
Program Type: Private Non-Profit Scholarship
Who It Serves: Low-income families in the Bay Area (9 counties including Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma) sending a child to private school for the first time.
Typical Funding: Up to $2,750 per student per year (based on financial need)
Application: First-come, first-served basis starting in early spring until funds are exhausted. Apply early.
Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) – Tuition Assistance Program
Program Type: Private Non-Profit Scholarship
Who It Serves: Low-income families in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties attending Catholic schools within the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
Typical Funding: $1,000 (K–8) to $2,000 (High School) per student per year
Application: Strict deadlines, usually in the Fall/Winter cycle.
The Guardsmen Scholarship
Program Type: Private Non-Profit Scholarship
Who It Serves: At-risk youth in the San Francisco Bay Area
Typical Funding: Up to $2,500 per student per year
Focus: Provides partial tuition assistance for underprivileged students to attend private schools with comprehensive support services.
Important Notes:
- These are private scholarships—not state programs
- Families often “stack” multiple scholarships and school-based financial aid to cover tuition
- Most applications open in January and prioritize early applicants
- Awards are partial—families typically still pay a portion of tuition