Apply to Be a Bonner

The Bonner Program provides a scholarship to students in exchange for weekly commitment to intensive and meaningful service with a local community organization over the four years as an undergraduate student with our campus partners.

Here’s a recruitment video from one of the schools in the Bonner Network.

In addition to their service, Bonner students engage in trainings on leadership development and social justice topics in an effort to encourage students to become aware of how the problems and issues of their communities influence their service work and public policy.

The Bonner Program is designed to transform not only the students who are directly supported by the program, but also the campus and community in which they serve and learn. Bonner students emerge from their college experience with a greater understanding of communities and the problems that exist within them, as well as the skills and commitment to be effective in community problem-solving efforts. Not surprisingly, they remain involved in service no matter what path they pursue professionally.

Bonners make up a community of passionate students ready to engage in the world through service. We have two different programs: Bonner Scholar Program and Bonner Leader Program. The main difference in these programs is the source of funding.

How to Apply to the Bonner Program

If you are interested in becoming a Bonner, you must apply directly one of our campus partners. Each campus has their own application and selection process. We suggest contacting both the Admissions Office and Bonner Program office at the school(s) you're interested in applying to for admission. Use the links below to learn more about each college or university and their Bonner Program.

Bonner Scholar Programs

The Bonner Scholar Program supports individuals who otherwise could not afford to attend college because of financial need. Bonner Scholar Programs meet the full documented need of U.S. citizens and may need the full documented need of non-U.S. citizens. In return for the financial aid support, the Bonner Scholars are expected to engage in 8-10 hours a week of community service during the school year (112-140 hours per semester) and 280 hours in the summer. Each program is unique. Explore the programs below by clicking on their logos.

Bonner Leader Programs

The Bonner Leader Program supports individuals interested in serving throughout their college experience, with a focus on students who qualify for Federal Work Study support. The Bonner Leaders do 8-10 hours a week of community service work during the school year (112-140 hours per semester). Bonner Leaders receive financial aid directly from their institution in the form of a scholarship and/or work-study. Explore the programs below by clicking on their logos.