P.E.O. California State Scholarships and Grants
Dorothy L. Weller Scholarship Fund
The Dorothy L. Weller Scholarship Fund, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter, provides need-based financial support to women residents of California pursuing studies in the broad field of law, including paralegal or law school programs.
Ethel O. Gardner Scholarship Fund
The Ethel O. Gardner Scholarship Fund Group, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter, awards need-based educational grants to California-resident women who have completed at least two years of college (upper-division undergraduates or graduate students) in any field of study, based on strong academic performance, character, and community involvement.
Ruth G. White Scholarship Fund
The Ruth G. White Scholarship Fund, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter, awards need-based educational grants to California-resident women who have completed at least one year of graduate study in the broad field of medicine, recognizing their academic excellence, integrity, and community involvement.
State Scholarships for California Women
P.E.O. California Chapter offers numerous (50+) individual grants and scholarships to women that have specific eligibility requirements and restrictions. These awards span various fields of study, institution types, and residency requirements. Women fill out one form for all scholarships and grants, including the three funds listed above. The California State Scholarship Committee considers all applicants who meet multiple criteria so that they are considered for all relevant opportunities.
All the above scholarships and more than 50 additional scholarships and grants require only one application for the upcoming academic school year. Applications are open from September 1st and close January 2nd. Access to the application form and other information can be found by clicking the button below.
The following three funds have differing criteria and timeframes and applicants must be sponsored by a local chapter. If you believe that you qualify, please contact Chapter JO or your local chapter.
Loving Concern Fund
The Loving Concern Fund, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter since 1925, provides short-term emergency financial assistance to California residents—both women and men—facing temporary crises due to extraordinary circumstances.
Stella Carver Fund
The Stella Carver Fund, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter, provides need-based grants to California women aged 60 and older to help cover essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, and other vital human services.
SHINE Fund
The SHINE Fund, administered by the P.E.O. California State Chapter, offers need-based grants to a female high school graduate in California to help cover educational expenses during their first two years of college or while attending vocational or certification programs.