Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for being a Bonner Scholar?

Bonner Scholars must:

Complete ten hours of community service and enrichment activities per week during the academic year.

Spend at least two summers completing 280 hours of community service anywhere in the world.

Participate in student development activities that assist enhance growing as a civically engaged citizen.

Who is eligible to become a Bonner Scholar?

Applicants must:

Be accepted to Oberlin College.

Demonstrate financial need (approximately $7,500 or less Estimated Family Contribution determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

Have completed community service in the home, school, community or religious organization.

When will I find out if I am accepted?

There are two deadlines and selection processes. Early decision students are notified of their status by March 31st and regular decision students are notified by April 30th.

What do we mean by service?

For the purposes of the Bonner Scholars Program, "community service" is defined as service provided to individuals or communities to meet social, educational, or environmental needs. This service may be provided directly or indirectly through a student-initiated project or a project sponsored by a non-profit or government agency. The following activities will not count towards meeting a Bonner Scholar's service requirement:

Service on behalf of a private, for-profit company or organization.

Service on behalf of a political organization or campaign (voter registration drives are allowed).

Pure, scientific research in a laboratory.

ROTC or any other military service.

The Oberlin College Bonner Center for Service and Learning, which sponsors the Bonner Scholars Program, maintains a database of opportunities for service in more than 100 local human and social services agencies, schools, religiously affiliated service organizations, grassroots community initiatives and municipal government entities.

How much money will I receive?

Bonner Scholars receive up to $18,250 during the four years they participate in the program. The funds are distributed during the academic year and and after graduation

Academic year funds include:

$500 Book Stipend each semester

$750 Bonner Checks (given in three increments of $250 each semester)

Summer funds include:

$1000 Summer Living Stipend (two summers)

$1500 Summer Earning Stipend (two summers)

$500 Rising Senior Stipend

After Graduation Funds include: $2,000 Loan Reduction Stipend