The OCA-UPS® Gold Mountain Scholarship recognizes first-generation college students who are pursuing their final year of higher education. Since its establishment, this program has awarded over 160 scholarships to high school and college students, providing essential financial support to those striving to achieve their academic dreams. In 2025, selected college seniors will receive a $2,500 award to help alleviate the financial burden of their final year.
Scholarship Details
- Award amount: $2,500.
- Application deadline: March 18th, at 11:59 PM PT.
- Recipients will be notified by May.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be currently enrolled as a college student, including community college students.
- Must be entering their final year of college or community college in the coming fall.
- Must be a first-generation college student (parents did not complete a college or university degree).
- Open to all citizenship statuses (DACA and undocumented students must have an SSN or ITIN).
- Must not have previously received the OCA-UPS® Gold Mountain Scholarship as a high school senior.
- Must not be a child or dependent of an OCA National staff member, Executive Council member, or Business Advisory Council member.
Application Requirements
- Short Bio (300 words max, PDF format).
- Academic Transcript (PDF format, unofficial transcripts accepted).
- Resume (One-page front and back, PDF format).
- Experiences Document (PDF format) detailing:
- Leadership experience
- Community Service/Volunteer experience
- Employment/Work experience
If any category is not applicable, provide a short explanation.
- Two (2) Essay Responses (500 words max, PDF format):
- What are you passionate about and why?
- Reflect on a situation where you remained silent and discuss its impact.
- Two (2) Short Answer Responses (300 words max, PDF format):
- Describe your experience as a first-generation Asian American or Pacific Islander college student.
- What are your plans/goals after graduation?
- Two (2) references (name, title, email, phone, and relationship to the applicant). Letters of recommendation are NOT required.
The OCA-UPS® Gold Mountain Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for first-generation students to receive financial support for their final year of college. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to academic excellence and community engagement, we encourage you to apply!