Bear Scholars Program
Bear Scholars is a signature scholarship opportunity made possible through the generosity of Phoenix College Alumni and donors who believe in investing in the next generation of Bears. The program recognizes PC students who demonstrate academic promise, leadership, and a commitment to giving back. In addition to scholarship support, Bear Scholars serve as ambassadors for PC by participating in volunteer service, engaging with alumni and donors, and sharing their Phoenix College experience. The program is designed to reduce financial barriers while developing future leaders, strengthening connections across campus, and creating a community of students who represent the best of Phoenix College.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Bear Scholars program, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be enrolled full-time or part-time in a degree or certificate program at Phoenix College.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Be an Arizona resident.
- Take the majority of their coursework at Phoenix College.
- Intend to graduate from Phoenix College.
How the Bear Scholars Program Works
Your award is based on your enrolled credit hours and program of study. It includes support for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses.
- Certificate and associate degree programs: $140 per credit hour, up to $2,520 per semester.
- Bachelor’s degree programs: $200 per credit hour, up to $3,600 per semester.
Awards cover up to 18 credit hours per semester. For example:
- A student taking 6 credit hours in a certificate program would receive $840.
- A student taking 12 credit hours in an associate degree program would receive $1,680.
- A student taking 18 credit hours in a bachelor’s degree program would receive $3,600.
Scholarship funds are intended to help cover the cost of attending Phoenix College, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other eligible educational expenses, in accordance with college and financial aid guidelines.
Yes. Bear Scholars may receive other scholarships or financial aid if they meet the eligibility requirements for those programs. Scholarship awards may be adjusted as needed to comply with financial aid regulations and institutional policies.
Applications are reviewed by a scholarship selection committee made up of Phoenix College alumni, faculty, staff, and donors. The committee considers academic achievement, educational and career goals, financial need, and a commitment to service. Finalists may be invited to participate in an interview before recipients are selected.
Accepting a Bear Scholars scholarship includes a commitment to service and to representing Phoenix College. Each semester, scholars agree to:
- Complete volunteer service: 10 hours for full-time students and 5 hours for part-time students.
- Share their Phoenix College experience through stories or college communications.
- Serve as college ambassadors at donor, alumni, and scholarship events when invited.
Ambassador activities may count toward the volunteer service requirement. Applicants should consider these commitments before applying.
Yes. The scholarship is renewable each semester for up to two years, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements, fulfill your Bear Scholar commitments, and remain in good standing.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Founded in 1920, Phoenix College is the first college in the Maricopa Community Colleges system. For more than a century, its graduates have helped shape our community as educators, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, public servants, and leaders in countless other fields.
Phoenix College alumni created the Bear Scholars scholarship to carry that legacy forward, helping the next generation pursue an education, develop as leaders, and give back to their communities.
Today, the program is sustained by the generosity of alumni, donors, and friends of Phoenix College who believe in the promise of our students and the difference they can make.
