Apply to Be a Bonner

The Bonner Program is a highly selective scholarship that supports diverse groups of students who dedicate themselves to serving their local communities throughout all four years of college. For over 35 years, it has been available at a mix of public and private colleges and universities across the United States and has an alumni network of more than 20,000 people nationwide.

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

All Bonners are required to serve eight to 10 hours each week during the school year (112-140 hours per semester) and 280 hours during the summer. In addition they take part in 250 hours of training before they graduate. These workshops bring together students who care about serving others and help them think deeply about their roles as citizens and leaders. In the process students learn from each other and discover how communities work and how change happens. The workshops cover practical skills such as communication, strategy, fundraising, program evaluation, public policy, and entrepreneurship.

Bonners commit to participate in the program all four years of college, and the depth and duration of that engagement creates meaningful change in their lives. By graduation, Bonners understand the social, economic, and environmental challenges in their communities. They have developed strong skills in problem-solving and working with diverse groups of people. They graduate into a nationwide network of former Bonners who can help with career advice and coaching. In sum the program helps students jumpstart careers where they can make a positive difference in the world, whether in business, government, or nonprofit organizations.

How to Apply to the Bonner Program

Each school has its own way of accepting students into the Bonner Program. You must apply through one of our partner schools. We recommend reaching out to both the Admissions Office and the Bonner Program office at the schools you're interested in. Click the links below to learn more about each school and their Bonner Program.

Both Bonner Scholar and Bonner Leader programs help students who want to volunteer but need financial help to pay for college. Many Bonners are the first in their family to go to college and come from families with limited income. The main difference between these two programs is where the money comes from and whether there is a summer internship stipend.

Bonner Scholar Programs have endowments that cover the full cost of college for U.S. citizens who need financial help. They may also cover costs for non-U.S. citizens. Students automatically get financial support for 2 summer internships as well. Click on the logos below to learn more about each program.
Bonner Leader Programs use Federal Work Study money to help pay for college, so students must qualify for Federal Work Study to join. Bonner Leaders may also get extra financial aid from their college. This can include tuition discounts, scholarships, or cash payments. Click on the logos below to learn more about each program.