Golden 1 Credit Union (Golden 1) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Scholarship Program, giving California students who demonstrate outstanding achievement in academics, community service, work experience, and extracurricular activities the opportunity to earn renewable scholarships of up to $5,000 per year toward higher education. Scholarships may be renewed for up to four years, for a potential total of $20,000. Golden 1 will award approximately $500,000 in scholarships in 2026, reaffirming its commitment to empowering members and strengthening communities through education.

Golden 1’s annual scholarship program supports full-time attendance at accredited, nonprofit two- or four-year colleges or universities in California. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, high school graduates, and current college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors. Applicants must be Golden 1 members, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and complete at least 24 hours of community service or work experience in the past 12 months. As part of its commitment to members, Golden 1 will also deposit $100 into each scholarship recipient’s Share Savings account.

“This program invests directly in California students and Golden 1 members, helping them reach their full potential while strengthening the communities we serve,” said Erica Taylor, Senior Vice President of Community Impact and Public Relations Officer for Golden 1 Credit Union. “We’re proud to support the next generation of leaders and changemakers by expanding opportunities in higher education.”

Since launching the program in 2013, Golden 1 has awarded nearly $5 million in scholarships to close to 600 California students. In 2025 alone, more than 40 scholarships were granted to students across the state, helping them pursue their dreams in fields such as nursing, engineering, business, and the arts. 

The application period for the 2026 scholarship program is open online through Jan. 31, 2026. Virtual office hours for application questions will be available every Monday from 3 to 5 p.m., Dec. 15 through Jan. 26. Recipients will be announced and scholarships awarded in June 2026. Apply now or learn more at golden1.com/our-community/scholarships.