CSU Partnership Award

C4E is a space-limited program on campus that collaborates with external and internal partners to connect outstanding students with financial awards and support throughout their CSU journey. You have been nominated by a C4E Partner Program as a student who deserves the opportunity to apply to the C4E program. If you would like one of the limited number of spots in the Community for Excellence, you must complete the application by February 1, 2026.

The C4E program is designed to support your college journey and connection to career by providing you with two key resources:

Financial Awards: Scholarships funded by CSU or your outside partnership organization.
Professional Mentorship: A dedicated Scholar Contact—a professional staff member from offices like Scholar Success Programs, The Access Center, or The Academic Advancement Center—who will provide ongoing support throughout your time at CSU that includes access to programming and events specifically designed for you.

Research shows that combining professional mentorship with financial support is more effective at increasing student success than providing either one alone. Our goal is to ensure you have the resources you need to thrive at CSU and beyond.

If selected, you will have requirements that you must complete each semester you are enrolled to continue to receive your C4E financial award. If you choose not to apply, you are forfeiting your opportunity for student support and the C4E financial award.

In order to receive the student support and C4E funding, you must apply for consideration by completing the following 3 steps no later than February 1st:

Step 1: Complete the general CSUSA

Step 2: Complete the required C4E Partnership Award application and C4E Essay Question

Step 3: Complete your FAFSA or CASFA application. You must meet financial need eligibility requirements as determined by CSU’s Office of Financial Aid for admission into C4E.

Additional Opportunities: If you are selected for the C4E program, we also encourage you to explore these optional, additional applications for programs that prioritize C4E students. These programs can help you meet your C4E requirements and provide extra support.

TRIO SSS will help you meet your C4E requirements and provide additional opportunities for support and resources.

Bridge Scholars Program lets you get a jump start in college credits through an 8-week summer program at CSU.

Key Communities are learning communities designed to foster students transition to and through CSU by focusing on learning through experience both in and out of the classroom.