2026 Start-2-Finish Scholarship Application

Description

Bridge Builders Foundation Annual Start-2-Finish Scholarship Program

Since 1982, the Bridge Builders Foundation in partnership with the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., has awarded financial scholarships to college-bound, African American male high school seniors. 

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

Scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors of Los Angeles-area high schools. The awards will be presented at the Bridge Builders Annual Salute and Scholarship Banquet in June.

QUALIFYING CRITERIA

1. Applicants must have a high school GPA of 3.0 or above (and maintain a 2.75 GPA for recurring scholarships).

2. Applicants must enroll in an accredited 4-year college or university beginning September of the academic year immediately after graduation from high school.

3. Applicants must have community service experience.

4. Applicants must have demonstrated leadership abilities within their school or communities.

5. Applications must be postmarked by February 1st. Early applications are accepted and encouraged.

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Log on to bridgebuildersla.org/start-to-finishscholars-program to complete the online Scholarship Application and upload all supporting documentation, or submit application and all supporting documentation by mail.

2. Applications that are incomplete, improperly packaged, or postmarked after the deadline will not be considered. This is inclusive of electronic submissions.

3. All Foundation decisions are final.

4. The awards will be distributed directly to the recipient upon verification of enrollment in an accredited 4-year college or university. Registration documentation will be required.

5. Selected awardees and one (1) guest will be given complimentary tickets to the Bridge Builders Annual Salute and Scholarship Banquet. 

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

Applicants must be a Black male high school senior who will graduate by June of this academic year, and who has qualified for college enrollment beginning September of the academic year immediately after graduation.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Complete the Scholarship Application Information Form, and attach a signed letter from the high school's college advisor or counselor. The letter should be on the school's letterhead, and include the Applicant's GPA, class rank, and SAT/ ACT information.

2. Upload a typewritten, double-spaced composition not to exceed three (3) pages. Use no less than a 10-point font size. The composition must include the following:

♦ Explanation of what effect or importance a college education will have on the Applicant's future.

♦ Summary of Applicant's leadership roles and community service.

♦ Explanation of financial need, including parents' occupation.

♦ Applicant's parents' highest level of education attained.

3. Upload two (2) letters of recommendation: one from a high school faculty member and one from a community member. Letters from immediate family members will not be accepted.

4. Upload an official transcript including the most recent semester, and SAT/ ACT test dates and scores.

5. Upload a recent photograph: minimum 3x5 headshot (full color). NO STUDIO PROOFS PLEASE.

MAIL APPLICATIONS TO:

Bridge Builders Foundation

3787 S. Vermont Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90007

Attention: Scholarship Committee

An Approved Public Service Charity (#33-0846590) 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

You may visit the Foundation website BridgeBuildersLA.org or call (323) 282-7827

In-Person Instruction

Cost - Free