Writers of Kern

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Student Member Scholarships

Writers of Kern is pleased to offer student membership scholarships. The scholarship(s) will be awarded to high school, college, and university students enrolled in English, Literature, or Writing majors at any Kern County educational institution, including re-entry student(s).

Scholarships include:

  1. Active student membership in WOK and California Writers Club
  2. Eligibility to submit to WOK and CWC writing contests and publications (submission fee may be required)
  3. Eligibility to participate in author events (application donation may be required)
  4. Three meeting and speaker events during the program / scholarship year
  5. Attendance at WOK’s Spring Writers Conference during the scholarship year
  6. Social Media and local news release with student bio (approved by parent/guardian if under 18)
  7. Stipend of $150

Requirements:

  1. Application period: August 1, 2026 through September 30, 2026, midnight, online Word or PDF submission or postmark verification.
  2. Students must be enrolled in a Kern County University, Community College, or high school. There is no age or unit number restriction. Students, including adults of all ages and re-entry students, are encouraged to apply.
  3. Students must provide proof of residency in Kern County (when requested)
  4. Submit items 5 through 9, below, to scholarship@writersofkern.com or mail to:

Writers of Kern
P.O. Box 22335
Bakersfield, CA 93390-2335

Subject-Line: Scholarship Application

  1. Student letter of introduction and interest
  2. Instructor/Teacher recommendation
    a. Including length of acquaintance
    b. Writing and personal qualities that warrant scholarship
    c. Unique student needs, if any
  3. Portfolio of two works of different genres (Times New Roman 12 point font) (limit 1500 words total)
  4. Parental statement of consent to apply (if under 18 years of age)
  5. Questionnaire : Two (2) pages or less, answering the following:
    a. What do you consider your strengths as a writer?
    b. What obstacles do you face as a writer?
    c. What goals have you set for yourself as a writer?
    d. If you are awarded the scholarship, how will you use the money to further your writing and achieve these goals?