Scholarship

How to Apply for the
Ben Carlson Memorial Scholarship

The 2026 Scholarship Application is now closed.
Please check back on January 1, 2027 for the next application cycle.

The Ben Carlson Memorial and Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to students who exemplify the work ethic, athleticism, academic dedication, and community service that defined Ben Carlson’s life.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

Lifeguard Experience

  • Past or present participation in a Junior Lifeguard Program, or

  • Past or present employment as an open water lifeguard (ocean, lake, or river)

  • Pool lifeguarding and/or pool-only certifications are not eligible

Education Status

  • Must attend a four-year post-secondary institution during the 2026–2027 academic year

  • Must be a full-time undergraduate student pursuing a first undergraduate degree

  • Students attending community colleges, trade schools, or graduate programs are not eligible

  • Proof of admission and course enrollment will be required prior to scholarship disbursement

Academic Standing

  • Current high school seniors or undergraduate students only

  • Minimum GPA requirements:

    • High school students: 3.2 unweighted GPA

    • Undergraduate students: 3.0 GPA

  • Must be enrolled in a full-time academic course load

Personal Qualifications

Applicants must demonstrate:

  • Strong work ethic and independence

  • Academic rigor and promise

  • Athleticism

  • Commitment to service and community involvement

Application & Selection Process

Online Application

Opens January 1, 2026

Applicants will submit the following through the online application portal:

  • Essay (maximum 700 words)
    Describe how you embody the qualities of Ben Carlson and outline your educational goals.

  • Resume

  • Academic Transcripts
    Transcripts will be requested for verification:

    • High school students: first-semester transcript

    • College students: high school transcript and any college transcripts

Oral Interviews

  • The top five candidates will be selected for an oral interview with the Foundation’s Board

  • Interview candidates must bring official transcripts

Scholarship Award

  • Three scholarships awarded

  • $20,000 per recipient

  • Scholarships are awarded in memory of Ben Carlson, a Newport Beach Lifeguard who passed away in the line of duty on July 6, 2014

The Foundation’s mission is to create a lasting legacy through scholarship, ocean safety, and philanthropy.

Application Timeline

  • January 1, 2026 – Scholarship application opens

  • February 1, 2026 – Application deadline (portal closes)

  • April 2026 – Finalists notified and interviews scheduled

  • May 2026 – Scholarship recipients announced

  • July 2026 – Scholarship Dinner Event (location TBD)