Scholarship support is a core part of La Sierra University’s commitment to affordable, mission-centered higher education. Through a mix of university merit awards, need-based aid, and donor-supported scholarships, La Sierra works to lower financial obstacles while recognizing academic achievement, leadership ability, and dedication to service.
Scholarship support is a central part of La Sierra University’s commitment to providing accessible, mission-centered higher education. Through a combination of university merit awards, need-based financial aid, and donor-supported scholarships, La Sierra works to reduce financial barriers for students from diverse backgrounds. These scholarships not only make education more affordable, but also recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to service. By easing financial stress, scholarship support allows students to focus more fully on their academic goals and campus involvement. Many awards are designed to encourage persistence, helping students remain enrolled and progress toward graduation. Scholarship recipients are often more engaged in leadership opportunities, service initiatives, and co-curricular activities.
1. Institutional Merit Scholarships
La Sierra University provides institutional merit scholarships to eligible students through the admissions and financial aid process. These awards recognize strong academic performance and future potential and are usually determined through a full review of the admissions application and FAFSA submission.
Merit scholarships serve as an important enrollment support tool, helping students manage tuition costs while reinforcing the university’s focus on academic readiness and success. For many students, these awards form the core of their financial aid package.
2. Need-Based and Mission-Aligned Financial Support
In keeping with its mission as a Seventh-day Adventist institution, La Sierra prioritizes access to education for students from varied financial backgrounds. Need-based scholarships and grants are awarded alongside federal and state aid to ensure that financial challenges do not prevent students from pursuing a college degree.
3. Endowed Scholarships and Donor Support
La Sierra University benefits from a strong collection of endowed scholarships created by alumni, families, and community supporters. These donor-funded awards often focus on specific criteria such as academic major, leadership, service, faith involvement, or financial need. Endowed scholarships offer long-term, reliable support for students while strengthening connections among donors, faculty, and the broader university community.
4. Departmental and Program-Specific Scholarships
Many academic programs at La Sierra University offers scholarships tied to specific fields, including education, business, health sciences, religion, psychology, and the liberal arts. These awards often recognize academic strength, career potential, and involvement within the discipline. Faculty play an important role in identifying and mentoring students for these opportunities, helping connect financial support with academic guidance and career preparation.
Scholarships as a Student Success Strategy
At any Adventist University, scholarships are viewed as more than financial assistance; they are considered investments in student success. By easing financial pressure, scholarships allow students to focus more on coursework, leadership activities, service learning, and career exploration.
Guidance for Students and Advisors
Students are encouraged to:
• Complete the FAFSA each year and meet university deadlines
• Check their financial aid accounts regularly
• Apply for departmental and endowed scholarships when eligible
• Communicate early with the Office of Financial Aid about outside awards
Faculty and advisors are encouraged to include scholarship information in mentoring and advising discussions, especially for first-generation and high-need students.
Learn More About Scholarships
Students and families can explore the full range of scholarship opportunities available at La Sierra University, including institutional merit scholarships, need-based aid, endowed awards, and important application timelines.
Financial Support
The Office of Financial Aid is available to provide personalized guidance and answer questions about scholarships, FAFSA requirements, and financial aid planning.
Incoming students are also encouraged to connect with the Office of Admissions to learn how scholarships are considered during the admissions review process and how financial aid packages are structured after acceptance.
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a student at La Sierra University, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Whether you’re exploring academic programs, campus life, admissions requirements, or financial aid options, the La Sierra admissions team is here to support you every step of the way.
Call the Enrollment Office:
951-785-2000
Learn More & Apply Online:
https://www.lasierra.edu/admissions
Visit Us In Person:
La Sierra University – 4500 Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside, CA 92505
You’re also encouraged to schedule a campus tour, meet with admissions counselors, and experience firsthand what makes La Sierra a supportive, purpose-driven community. Your college journey begins here.
Early outreach is strongly encouraged to ensure students can fully explore available scholarship opportunities.
