CIF State Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award
Scholarship Sponsored by California Interscholastic Federation
Overview
The 2025–2026 CIF State Scholar‑Athlete of the Year recognizes college‑bound high school seniors in California who have excelled both academically and athletically and who serve as strong role models through high personal standards (integrity, honesty, etc.).
Awards
- Two State winners (one male and one female) will each receive a $10,000 scholarship.
- Twenty Section winners (one male and one female from each CIF Section) will each receive a $1,500 scholarship.
Who is eligible
- Current California high school seniors who are planning to attend college.
- California residents.
- Students must have an unweighted cumulative GPA (grades 9–12) of at least 3.70.
- An SAT or ACT score is required.
- A minimum of two years of varsity athletic participation is required, including participation during the senior year.
Application components
All materials must be submitted through the Kaleidoscope system. You may start an application, save it, sign out, and return later by logging back into your account; however, only fully completed submissions will be accepted.
Required items:
- Parent/guardian contact information
- Current school information
- Academic details (unweighted GPA and SAT/ACT score)
- Student essay (maximum 500 words)
- Principal’s information and signature page
- Full list of activities, covering:
1. Athletics (including varsity participation and years)
2. Non‑athletic extracurriculars and leadership roles
3. Community service
Selection criteria
Selection is based on a combination of outstanding academic achievement, athletic performance, and personal character. Applicants should demonstrate:
- An unweighted cumulative GPA of 3.70 or higher (grades 9–12).
- A valid SAT or ACT score.
- At least two years of varsity competition in California, with participation as a senior.
- Exemplary character consistent with the Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.
Notes
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Carefully follow the Kaleidoscope instructions to ensure all required fields and documents are provided before final submission.