James R. Simpson Merit Scholarship

2026-2027 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
Matador Scholarship Program (MSP)
Deadline
06/01/2026
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. Describe a time when you quietly supported someone in need without recognition or reward. What motivated you to act, and what impact did it have on them and on you?
  4. 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*.
  5. Please upload: A copy of your student resume/CV.