MSP James Russell Simpson/ Student Scholarship

2025-2026 Academic Year Award

James R. Simpson was a long-time resident of Encino California. He was the kind of person who, if he heard on the radio or television that someone was in distress, would send them a check. He gave privately to the work of youth groups and had a very strong concern for worthy hardworking students who had been achievers throughout school and for whom college education was very important. When he died, his wife, Parnell Simpson made a donation to a scholarship endowment in his name.

This scholarship is open to CSUN students who have a cumulative GPA greater than or equal to a 3.0.

First-time freshman *undergraduate students entering their first semester this upcoming academic year are highly encouraged to apply*.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Open to CSUN undergraduate and graduate students.
    First-Time Freshman are highly encouraged to apply
  • Have a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) on file for the upcoming academic year.
  • Students must have a GPA of at least a 3.0.
  • Undergraduate students must enroll in 12 units or more during the Fall & Spring terms of the award year.
    Any change to your eligibility status in any term within the award year will result in a cancellation of your award.
  • Graduate students must enroll in a minimum of 6 units (8 units preferred) or more during the Fall & Spring terms of the award year.
    Any change to your eligibility status in any term within the award year will result in a cancellation of your award.
  • One letter of recommendation must be requested through the my Matador Scholarship system.
  • Must upload a copy of your student resume. A student resume is a detailed record of your personal and educational information. It includes the name of your school/college, coursework, projects (if any) undertaken, and awards. The resume may also contain additional information like your extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, job experiences (if any), hobbies, etc.


Please note:
If you are receiving Financial Aid (including loans), your financial aid award(s) may be adjusted if you receive a scholarship amount that exceeds your financial aid total limit. Speak to a financial aid counselor during walk-in hours to get a detailed overview about your individual situation

Award
Varies
Scopes
CADAA Required, FAFSA Required, First-Time Freshman (Encouraged to Apply), Graduate GPA ≥ 3.0, Undergraduate GPA ≥ 3.0, Graduate, Undergraduate
Deadline
05/01/2025
Supplemental Questions
  1. What types of activities are you involved in, on and off campus? How have your experiences, accomplishments and/or obstacles in your life or in school influenced your academic and career path?
  2. Describe how receiving this scholarship will help you achieve your goals.
  3. [MSP 1] Please request: A letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, counselor, or community leader - who can attest to your meritorious performance and personal strengths and can assess your potential for academic and career success. The letter should include a signature, title, and contact information. The letter should be addressed to: *Award Selection Committee*.
  4. Please upload: A copy of your student resume/CV. A student resume is a detailed record of your personal and educational information. It includes the name of your school/college, coursework, projects (if any) undertaken, and awards. The resume may also contain additional information like your extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, job experiences (if any), hobbies, etc.
    Please contact the CSUN Career Center for guidance on developing a resume.