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Scholarship & Academic Credit

Our scholarship program is guided by a simple principle: every person should have the opportunity to experience adventure and challenge, develop character and compassion, and learn leadership skills—regardless of financial ability.

Donate to the OBCA Scholarship Fund
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For Individuals

Tuition Assistance

Need-based tuition scholarships for individuals on Open Enrollment courses who don’t qualify for a full scholarship but need financial assistance to attend. Available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning in January — 10–30% off tuition, as long as funds remain.

Open Enrollment courses are designed for individuals who apply on their own and join a group of peers—rather than coming as part of an intact group.

Scroll down to see other scholarship types, including full-tuition scholarships & sliding scale options.
Find the Course For You
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CB17 FAQs

How to Apply for a Scholarship on an Open Enrollment Course

1. Apply for your course

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  • Enroll on an Outward Bound California Course and answer “yes” to the question “Do you want to be considered for scholarship?” in the online enrollment form.
  • Submit a $500 deposit. This deposit is fully refundable if, after completing your application, you do not qualify for the scholarship and need to withdraw your enrollment for that reason.
  • You will receive a Welcome Email from your Course Advisor that has a link to your Applicant Portal, where you’ll find your application materials. Please complete all application materials by your due date. A statement of need and financial documentation, such as 1040 tax forms, will be requested.

2. Course Acceptance & Scholarship Offer

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If you are medically cleared to attend the course, the OBCA Scholarship Committee will review your scholarship application, and notify you of the scholarship award.

If the amount doesn’t meet your financial need, you may cancel your application and receive the full $500 deposit back.*

*If you cancel before an offer is made, or if you are unresponsive to communication from your course advisor, you will forfeit the $150 application fee.

Additional Questions

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If you have additional questions, please call 415-933-6222 or email us at: [email protected]

See below for other scholarship opportunities.

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Sliding Scale & Full Tuition Scholarship Programs

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More Than Half of Our Students Receive Scholarships

This scholarships help to remove barriers like program costs, gear, transportation, and access to culturally responsive instruction. Some scholarships open seasonally. Sign up below to be notified when new dates and applications are released.

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Full Scholarship Expeditions

Sliding Scale Expeditions

Fully Funded Veterans Expeditions

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Scholarships for Group Programs

We are committed to serving low-income and historically excluded communities. More than half of our students attend with full or partial scholarship support.

For community-serving nonprofits, we work to remove cost as a barrier to participation. If your group needs financial assistance to attend a course, we encourage you to reach out.

Connect With Our Team to Learn More
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529 College Savings Plans, College Credit & AmeriCorps Awards

Through partnership with Western Colorado University, Outward Bound participants can utilize a 529 College Saving Plan or AmeriCorps award to fund their course, as well as earn college credits. Enrolled applicants will be sent more information in your Applicant Portal. You can find out more on WCU’s Outdoor & Experiential Education Program Partnerships website, or call the Student Services Team of Outward Bound California (415.933.6222) for more information.

Please note, early enrollment on your OB course is highly encouraged! If you enroll within 30 days of course start it is unlikely WCU will be able to process your registration in time.

Find Out More About Academic Credit
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Support Scholarships

We believe everyone should have the chance to experience outdoor adventure, build confidence and compassion, and develop leadership skills that last a lifetime.

More than half of our students receive scholarships, helping remove barriers like program costs, gear, transportation, and access to culturally responsive instruction.

We offer scholarships for groups, open-enrollment students, veterans, LGBTQ+ youth, people of color, Pinnacle Scholars, and participants in our year-long Youth Leadership Corps.

Support Scholarships
Our scholarships are made possible thanks to generous donors who open doors for students.

If You'd Like to Support Our Work, Donate Today
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