MSP James R. Simpson Merit 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 scholarships open to continuing full-time students.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Open to CSUN undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Undergraduate students must have a GPA of at least a 3.5.
  • Graduate students must have a GPA of at least a 3.5.
  • Have a FAFSA or California Dream Act Application (CADAA) on file for the upcoming academic year.
  • 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.
  • Two letters 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, Graduate GPA ≥ 3.0, Undergraduate GPA ≥ 3.0, Graduate, Undergraduate
Deadline
05/01/2025
Supplemental Questions
  1. Describe your academic and career goals: a) What motivates you to excel in your major? b) What do you plan to accomplish as a University Scholar and c) how will your experiences at California State University, Northridge guide you in your endeavors in the next ten years?
  2. How have you made a difference in your community?
  3. Letters of Recommendation:
    • 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*.
    • 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.