The New Horizons Scholarship provides scholarships of at least $1,000 to individuals and families receiving housing assistance through the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz. By pairing housing stability with educational support, the program helps create momentum toward higher education, career advancement, and long-term opportunity.

To apply for the New Horizons Scholarship, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a member of a household currently receiving assistance through the Housing Authority
• Be 18 years or older, or a current high school senior
• Be enrolled in, or planning to attend, a qualifying college, university, or training program
• Submit a complete application, including all required materials, by the application deadline

[Click here] to view and print the New Horizons Scholarship Application, including the Application Materials Checklist, Applicant Certification, and Statement of Policies.

Start by reviewing the eligibility requirements and the list of qualifying schools and programs. Use the link at the top of this page to access the application packet, which includes a checklist of all required materials.

Follow the checklist carefully. Complete the application, write your essay, secure a letter of recommendation, and submit all materials by May 31, 2026.

To apply for the New Horizons Scholarship, submit the following materials:

• Completed application
  • Access the application using the link at the top of this page.
• Personal essay
  • Typed essays are strongly recommended.
  • Essays may be up to two pages.
  • Refer to the Application Materials Checklist for essay prompts.
• One letter of recommendation from one of the following:
  • Teacher, professor, academic advisor, or school counselor
  • Employer, direct supervisor, or co-worker
  • Community volunteer or athletic coach
  • Personal acquaintance or friend
    • Letters are reviewed based on content and source.
    • Encourage your recommender to highlight your strengths, achievements, and goals.
• Proof of enrollment
  • Provide proof of enrollment in a qualifying school or program for the 2025–2026 academic year.
  • If this documentation is not available at the time of application, it must be submitted within 30 days of receiving your scholarship award.

Choose one of the following options to submit your completed application and required materials:

1. By Mail: Send your application to:
   Housing Authority of the County of Santa Cruz
   ATTN: New Horizons Scholarship Program
   2160 41st Avenue
   Capitola, CA 95010
2. In Person: Drop off your application at the Housing Authority office. A secure onsite mailbox is available.
3. By Email: Send your application to [email protected] with the subject line: New Horizons Scholarship Application.

Application Due Date: May 31, 2026

The New Horizons Scholarship provides awards of at least $1,000.

Scholarship funds are issued directly to the recipient and may be used to support educational expenses, including:

• Other essential educational supplies
• Tuition and required fees
• Books and course materials
• Computer equipment

After the application period closes, Housing Authority staff will review all complete applications. Applicants are evaluated using a point-based process that considers:

• The type and length of the educational program
• The applicant’s essay
• The letter of recommendation

Additional points may be awarded for community engagement and volunteer involvement.

All applicants will be notified in writing of their selection status within 6–8 weeks after the application deadline. Scholarship recipients are selected without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, gender, age, sexual orientation, or disability.

All applicants will be notified in writing of their selection status. Scholarship recipients can expect to receive notification within 6–8 weeks after the application deadline.

Qualifying educational institutions and programs include, but are not limited to:

• Four-year universities or state colleges
• Two-year community or city colleges
• Graduate schools
• Post-graduate programs
• Technical or vocational schools and programs
• Certificate programs

There are many scholarship opportunities available to help support your education. No matter your goals or field of study, the resources below can help connect you with scholarships that match your interests and support your next step forward. Explore the opportunities below:

Cabrillo College
University of California, Santa Cruz
San Jose State University
California State University, Monterey Bay
Monterey Peninsula College
Gavilan College
Santa Cruz Community Foundation
Santa Cruz County Department of Education