Scholarships
Scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students.
Explore Scholarships
At Concordia University Irvine, scholarships are a key part of how we help make a high-quality Christian education more affordable. A scholarship is a type of gift aid that does not need to be repaid.
We offer a wide range of scholarship opportunities for new freshmen, transfer, and graduate students — including academic, athletic, activity-based, fine arts, church work, and program-specific awards. Some scholarships are based on merit, talent, or vocation-specific interests; others also consider financial need.
Academic and athletic scholarships and department awards, including need-based aid, are known as Concordia institutional aid. Institutional aid may only be applied toward institutional charges, such as tuition, mandatory fees, university housing, and meal plans. It does not cover university class fees, fines, or other non-institutional expenses.
Scholarships for New Freshmen
Concordia offers generous academic and merit-based scholarships for incoming first-year students. These awards recognize your high school academic record and are designed to support you throughout your time at Concordia.
To remain eligible, you must be enrolled full time as an undergraduate for the entire academic year and meet the required cumulative GPA at the end of each semester for renewal.
These scholarships are not available to graduate or credential students.
Academic Scholarships
| Academic Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Regents: $22,000, 3.90 – 4.0 GPA Provost: $19,000, 3.60-3.89 GPA Dean: $16,000, 3.30-3.59 GPA Trustee: $14,000, 3.0-3.29 GPA |
| Requirements: | High school GPA is calculated using overall weighted academic coursework. |
| Additional Notes: | Must be fully admitted; renewable each year with minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA. |
Golden Eagles Scholarship
| Golden Eagles Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award: | $12,000 |
| Requirements: | Less than 3.0 GPA; high school GPA is calculated using overall weighted academic coursework. |
| Additional Notes: | Must be fully admitted; renewable each year with minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA. Excludes students receiving athletic scholarships. Cannot be combined with an Academic Scholarship. |
Scholarships for New Transfer Students
If you are transferring to Concordia from another college or university, you may qualify for academic scholarships based on your prior college coursework. These scholarships help make it easier to finish your degree at a university that values your experience and achievements.
To remain eligible, you must maintain full-time undergraduate status for the entire academic year and meet the required cumulative GPA at the end of each semester for your scholarship to be renewed.
These scholarships are not available to graduate or credential students.
Transfer Academic Scholarship
| Transfer Academic Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | $19,000, 3.70 – 4.0 GPA $16,000, 3.40 – 3.69 GPA $14,000, 3.0 – 3.39 GPA |
| Requirements: | Cumulative GPA from community, state, or private college with 30 completed units. International Students: TOEFL 79 (IBT)/IELTS above 6.5. |
| Additional Notes: | Must be fully admitted; renewable each year with minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA. |
Golden Eagles Scholarship
| Golden Eagles Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award: | $12,000 |
| Requirements: | Less than 3.0 GPA. Cumulative GPA from community, state, or private college with 30 completed units. International Students: TOEFL 79(IBT) /IELTS above 6.5 |
| Additional Notes: | Must be fully admitted; renewable each year with minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA. Excludes students receiving athletic scholarships. Cannot be combined with an Academic Scholarship. |
Scholarships for Graduate Students
As a graduate student, you may be eligible for church work scholarships, program-based scholarships, and state-funded grants that can help reduce the overall cost of your degree. Concordia partners with you to explore these opportunities so you can focus on advancing in your vocations.
Each scholarship or grant has its own eligibility requirements, application process, and timeline. Be sure to review the details for your specific program and contact your admissions or financial aid counselor if you have questions.
Cross-cultural Ministry Center (CMC) Scholarships
The All Nations Endowment for the Cross-cultural Ministry Center (CMC) was established at Concordia with the express purpose of furthering the mission of the CMC. The All Nations Scholarship is offered in addition to the CMC Church Career Grant to support culturally diverse ministry contexts.
Available only to students in the MA Theology: CMC program.
See “Church Work Scholarships” below.
Church Career Scholarship
Available to students in the M.A. in Theology program with a Director of Christian Education (DCE) emphasis only. See “Church Work Scholarships” below.
MCAA/MCSE Scholarship
For a limited time, new students* who begin the Master’s in Coaching and Athletics Administration or the Master’s of Coaching and Exercise Science program may qualify for a $1,000 scholarship.
Request Program and Scholarship Information
*Scholarship Athletes, Graduate Assistants, and students receiving a Concordia Faculty/Staff Waiver cannot combine those with tuition discounts, including the MCAA/MCSE scholarship.
Townsend Coffee Club
The Townsend Institute Coffee Club continues to pour out student scholarships, delicious coffee, and fun swag. Join our ‘Wise, Honorable, & Caffeinated’ Crew to receive your monthly delivery of our specialty Townsend Institute coffee brewed by friends of the university, Jedidiah Coffee. Or, if the monthly subscription isn’t for you, fill your cup (or home) with a variety of other TI-branded items.
Activity-Based Scholarships
In addition to academic awards, Concordia offers scholarships that recognize your involvement and leadership in specific co-curricular areas, such as nursing pathways and intercollegiate athletics. These scholarships are designed to support students who commit time and talent to these programs while pursuing their degrees.
Nursing Healthcare Service Scholarship
| Nursing Healthcare Service Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | $5,000 – $10,000 per semester (up to $20,000 total per student) |
| Requirements: | Cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher. Must meet at least one of the following conditions: enrollment in Freshman Advantage Nursing program (FANP) with minimum Sophomore standing or enrollment in an undergraduate major with a declared Pre-Nursing Minor and a minimum of 30 completed units. |
| Additional Notes: | Scholarship capped at $20,000 total. Amount awarded per semester may vary depending on program structure and academic year. Renewable each term with a minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA. Renewal application required each semester. If maximum award is not received during FANP or pre-nursing minor, remaining funds may carry over into ABSN program, pending renewal eligibility. If maximum award is reached during FANP or pre-nursing minor, student is not eligible to reapply during ABSN program. |
| Application: | Nursing Healthcare Service Scholarship Undergraduate Application |
Athletic Scholarship
| Athletic Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Amounts vary |
| Requirements: | Determined by individual sport |
| Additional Notes: | Contact Coaches directly for more information. |
Music, Theatre and Film, Visual Arts, and Forensics Scholarships
Concordia’s fine arts and forensics scholarships support students who are ready to grow their creative, artistic, and communication skills in a Christ-centered community. Depending on the scholarship, you may qualify as a major, minor, or non-major who is actively involved in ensembles, productions, or the forensics team.
These scholarships require an application and either an audition, portfolio, or video submission. Scholarship funds are limited, so students are encouraged to apply early and remain active in their respective programs to continue receiving support.
These scholarships are available to traditional undergraduate students only.
Music Scholarships
| Music Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Amounts vary depending on the number of students who qualify and funds available; awarded on ability. |
| Requirements: | Application and audition required. |
| Additional Notes: | For additional information, please contact Jeff Held at (949) 214-3420. |
| Application: | Music Scholarship Application |
Music scholarships are awarded to full-time students from any major who show musical ability and a commitment to participating in Concordia’s ensembles. Awards vary based on talent, ensemble needs, and available funding.
Scholarships are renewed annually at the same dollar amount as long as students remain in good standing within their assigned ensembles.
Eligibility Notes and Additional Details:
- Post-baccalaureate students (credential, master’s, or doctoral) are not eligible for music scholarships but may still participate in ensembles at no added tuition cost. Contact a faculty director to learn more.
- Scholarships are awarded only after admission to the university.
- Ensemble placement auditions take place during the first week of classes.
- Faculty consider need, proficiency, leadership potential, service, and existing institutional aid when determining award amounts.
- Students with LSM Academy experience receive an additional renewable $1,000 bonus.
How to Schedule an Audition:
- Complete the Music Scholarship application form.
- Email [email protected] with your preferred audition date (online options available).
- If visiting campus, email [email protected] or text our coordinator at (619) 995-0256 in advance to arrange a meeting with faculty or a student ambassador.
Audition Support:
Students who are newer to performing are encouraged to apply — many of our strongest ensemble members started as beginners. If you have never performed solo before, mention this when scheduling your audition, and our faculty will help guide you.
Theatre and Film Scholarships
| Theatre and Film Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Amounts vary depending on the number of students who qualify and funds available; awarded on ability. |
| Requirements: | Application and audition required. |
| Additional Notes: | For additional information, please contact Tony Vezner at (949) 214-3425. |
| Application: | Theatre and Film Scholarship Application |
Theatre and Film scholarships support students who show strong artistic potential in acting, directing, design, technical theatre, or stage management. Students do not need to be theatre majors to qualify.
Scholarship funds are limited, so early applications receive priority consideration.
Application Requirements:
- Fill out the scholarship application form
- Submit a sample of your work:
- Actors: Two contrasting 1-minute monologues (classical/contemporary; comedic/dramatic). You may also sing 32 bars of a song, but it is not required.
- Design/Technical/Stage Management: Portfolio materials such as prompt books, renderings, light plots, cue sheets, photos, or drawings. You would also be asked to give a short interview — either in person or on the phone.
- Auditions may be live or submitted via video.
Audition Instructions:
- After completing the application form, you will receive a scheduling link for auditions/interviews.
- To request a live audition or design interview, email [email protected].
- For video auditions, upload your materials to YouTube or Vimeo and send the link to [email protected].
Maintaining the Scholarship:
- Participate in two Concordia productions per season in any capacity (acting, crew, design, directing, house management).
- Enroll in one 3-unit theatre course per year.
- Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Visual Arts Scholarships
| Visual Arts Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Typical awards range from $2,000 – $3,000. |
| Requirements: | Application and portfolio required. |
| Additional Notes: | For additional information, please contact Rachel Soo at (949) 214-3289. |
| Application: | Visual Arts Scholarship Application |
Visual Arts scholarships support students pursuing Studio Art or Graphic Design. Awards are determined based on a portfolio review and are open only to declared majors in those fields.
Scholarship funds are limited, so we encourage applying as early as possible.
Portfolio Requirements:
Portfolios may include class assignments or independent projects completed within the past two years. Submit 10 images (JPEG or PDF) demonstrating your recent work. Accepted media may include:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Photography
- Ceramics
- Digital work
- Mixed media
- Printmaking
- Sculpture
To Maintain the Scholarship:
- Enroll in one 3-unit art/graphic design course each academic year.
- Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA.
- If changing majors, students must keep an Art/Graphic Design minor to retain eligibility.
Forensics Scholarships
| Forensics Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Up to $8,000 annually based on need and merit. |
| Requirements: | Application and audition required. |
| Additional Notes: | For additional information, please contact Konrad Hack at (949) 214-3309. |
| Application: | Forensics Scholarship Application |
Forensics scholarships are available to students who join Concordia’s nationally competitive speech and debate team. Awards consider both merit and financial need.
Priority is given to applications received by the deadline; late applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Abide by the Forensics Team Squad Handbook terms.
- Maintain full-time enrollment (minimum 12 units per semester).
- Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA.
- Attend weekly squad meetings and practices.
- Compete in at least three tournaments per semester as one of the following:
- Debate Only: NPDA-style parliamentary or Lincoln Douglas debate
- Speech Only: Three AFA/NFA individual events (two must be prepared events)
- Speech & Debate: NPDA-style debate + two individual events
Audition Instructions:
Submit a 6-minute audition video demonstrating your speech and/or debate skills. Email your video link to [email protected].
Church Work Scholarships
Concordia is committed to supporting students who are preparing for full-time ministry in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and related church vocations. A variety of institutional and outside scholarships are available to help future pastors, teachers, deaconesses, DCEs, DPMs, and other church workers respond to their callings.
Church work scholarships require an application, congregational membership, and participation in specific Christ College or Cross-cultural Ministry Center programs. Award amounts and eligibility criteria vary. You must reapply annually and maintain certain academic and ministry benchmarks.
Christ College Church Vocations Scholarship
| Scholarship Information | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | 80% of tuition |
| Requirements: | Application and interview required. |
| Application: | Church Vocations Scholarship Application |
In order to encourage undergraduate students to prepare for full-time service in church professions, Concordia University Irvine has established the Christ College Church Vocations Scholarship. This is a renewable scholarship each year for those who maintain a cumulative 2.5 GPA and a 2.8 GPA in certification course work and complete the annual reapplication.
After the first year of college, the student must be fully accepted into one of Concordia’s ministry programs: LCMS Teacher Education, LCMS Pre-Seminary, LCMS Director of Christian Education, LCMS Pre-Deaconess or LCMS Director of Parish Music.
To be considered for the Christ College Church Vocations Scholarship, applicants must:
- Have been an active communicant member of an LCMS congregation for at least one year
- Have an incoming GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Be committed to pursuing a specific LCMS church work program and to taking a call in an LCMS ministry at the completion of their program
- Commit to involvement in campus spiritual life
- Commit to regular attendance at a local LCMS congregation
Application Steps:
- Complete the Christ College Church Vocations Scholarship Application below.
- Please note this application requires your pastor’s approval
- Submit two (2) reference forms (1 by an LCMS church worker).
- Reference forms will be sent via email to the references you list on the application
- Return all materials to Carrie Donohoe at [email protected] or mail to
- ATTN: Carrie Donohoe,
1530 Concordia West,
Irvine, CA 92612-3213 - Complete an interview with a Christ College faculty member.
Once your application is complete, an interview with a Concordia University Irvine Christ College faculty member will be arranged. Students will receive an additional questionnaire to complete before the faculty interview.
California students receiving Cal Grant funds can only receive financial aid up to their financial need.
Church Career Scholarship
| Scholarship Information | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | 25% of tuition |
| Requirements: | Additional requirements for Teacher Credential and DCE/DPM programs: 1. Teacher Credential students must be Concordia University Irvine graduates, must complete Lutheran Teacher Certification, and teach in a Lutheran School upon completion of the program. 2. DCE/DPM students must complete DCE/DPM certification requirements and intend on serving in the DCE/DPM Ministry. |
| Application: | Church Career Scholarship Application |
In order to encourage students to prepare or continue serving full time in a church profession, Concordia University established the Church Career Scholarship.
In order to receive this scholarship, students must be a member of an LCMS congregation with the intent to serve or continue serving as a full time church worker and be enrolled in one of the programs listed below:
- Teacher Credential Program
- OBD- Christian Education Leadership*
- MA with DCE Certification*
- MA with DPM Certification
*Does not include DCE Internship experience tuition
Christ College Scholarship
| Christ College Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | $5,000 |
| Requirements: | Application required. |
| Application: | 1. New or Transfer Undergraduate Scholarship Application 2. Returning Undergraduate Scholarship Application |
| Deadline | New and first-year transfer students must submit application on or before August 7th. Returning students must submit application on or before March 20th. |
This scholarship supports LCMS students preparing for church work who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Church Vocations Scholarship.
Open only to traditional undergraduate students.
Requirements:
- LCMS congregational membership.
- Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.
- Minimum 2.8 GPA in certification coursework.
- Intent to pursue a career as a Lutheran teacher, pastor, DCE, deaconess, or DPM.
Cross-cultural Ministry Center Scholarships
| Cross-cultural Ministry Center Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | ⅓ of the MA Theology: CMC program tuition costs. |
| Requirements: | Application required. |
| Application: | Church Career Grant Application |
In order to support and encourage students who are preparing for the pastoral ministry in the LCMS, Concordia and the Cross-cultural Ministry Center offer the CMC Church Career Grant.
Available only to students in the Cross-cultural Ministry Center.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Meet all CMC Church Career Grant requirements.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Meet financial aid and satisfactory academic progress requirements.
- Complete the application at the start of each academic year.
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
All Nations Scholarship
| All Nations Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | ⅓ of the MA Theology: CMC program tuition costs. |
The All Nations Endowment for the Cross-cultural Ministry Center (CMC) was established at Concordia with the express purpose of furthering the mission of the CMC. The All Nations Scholarship is offered in addition to the CMC Church Career Grant to support culturally diverse ministry contexts.
Available only to students in the MA Theology: CMC program.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Meet all CMC Church Career Grant requirements.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Serve in a ministry context with a clear need for a missionary pastor.
- Represent an underserved group in ministry.
- Show strong potential for and progress toward launching a new ministry that crosses cultures and reaches the lost with the Gospel. This may be demonstrated through factors such as language competency, established history of involvement, resources, or congregational and district support.
- Maintain a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA.
Applicants must submit a written essay addressing these criteria to the CMC Program Coordinator. Scholarship funds are limited and must be renewed annually.
Outside Scholarships for Church Work
In addition to the financial aid offered through Concordia, church work students are also eligible for the following outside scholarships.
LCMS Biermann Memorial Scholarship
| LCMS Biermann Memorial Scholarship | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Amounts vary depending on the funding available and number of applicants. |
| Requirements: | Application required. |
| Additional Notes: | Open to all current members of LCMS congregations in the Missouri District who are attending any synodical Higher Education institution and working toward a degree that leads to a career in church work. Those who are in their vicarage or internship year are not eligible for scholarship funds for that academic year. |
| Application: | Biermann Memorial Scholarship Application |
LWML District Scholarships
| LWML District Scholarships | |
|---|---|
| Award Range: | Amounts vary depending on the funding available and number of applicants. |
| Additional Notes: | Please contact your congregation’s LWML representative or the LWML district in which your congregation is located for requirements and application procedures. |
Non-Concordia Scholarships
In addition to institutional aid from Concordia, you may consider outside scholarships from community organizations, foundations, employers, churches, and other sources. These non-Concordia scholarships can be a valuable way to reduce out-of-pocket costs and may be used in combination with your federal, state, and institutional aid.
The scholarship search engines listed below are provided as possible resources and do not represent an endorsement of Concordia’s views or standards. Always review eligibility requirements carefully and be cautious of any organization that charges a fee to apply.
You may search for scholarships using the following tools:
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Get in Touch
If you have questions about your financial aid package or next steps, our team is here to help.
Financial Aid Office
Grimm Hall North, 2nd Floor
1530 Concordia West
Concordia University Irvine
Irvine, CA 92612
Phone: (949) 214-3066
Email: [email protected]
Fax: (949) 214-3500