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  • Scholarship Amount

    $2,000-$6,000 per year

  • Deadline

    • Priority Deadline: March 15, 2024
      • Note: Majority of the applicants will be selected from the priority pool.
    • Final Deadline: April 15, 2024

  • Additional Benefit

    • Graduating LEAD Scholars receive a stole and certificate to add to their resume.

What is LEAD?

LEAD is a cohort-model leadership development program that prepares students to work with and lead diverse groups of people through dialogue and practice. Scholars are viewed as both learners and teachers as they bring together their unique experiences and perspectives to challenge and develop one another.

Scholars participate in the program for the duration of their time at Biola and by the time they graduate they will be able to construct a biblical foundation for diversity, discuss and analyze cultural worldviews, and practice leading with cultural humility. Upon successful completion of the program, scholars will receive a certificate and graduation stole.


Would I be a good applicant for LEAD?

The LEAD Scholars Program seeks applicants who are passionate about diversity, committed to growing with their cohort, and are willing to invest what they learn into the greater Biola community. Students should be curious, empathetic, and willing to engage honestly in challenging discussions. Being a part of LEAD is a significant commitment and honor (see program requirements below). Students who anticipate other significant time commitments (e.g. athletics, etc.) should seriously consider whether they can commit to the program.

Applicants must have a high school GPA of 3.0 or above, and/or cumulative transfer GPA of 2.5 or higher. Students of any ethnic or racial background are welcome to apply.

Mandatory Program Requirements

Students in the program must meet the following requirements for the duration of their enrollment at Biola:

  • Register and attend the LEAD Class during the first year of enrollment (Fall and Spring) at Biola.
  • Complete the IDI Survey and Debrief.
  • Participate in a SEID Symposium each semester.
  • Participate in select SEID workshops and events.
  • Write a 2–3 page paper due at the end of each semester.
  • Maintain a 2.5 minimum cumulative GPA.
  • Complete an Individual Success Coaching Session.

FAQs

Am I able to receive the LEAD scholarship every year I am enrolled at Biola?

Yes, the LEAD Scholarship is renewable on an annual basis contingent upon following the above requirements. For students who are in 5-year programs such as nursing or music, the scholarship will extend through their fifth year. The LEAD scholarship is not applied during semesters of student teaching, as this is considered graduate-level work.

What if I have a schedule conflict with the LEAD class?

We understand that certain academic programs may have class conflicts with the time the LEAD Class is scheduled. If you have an academic conflict or work conflict, please reach out to us at lead.scholars@biola.edu to discuss possible options.

What happens if I take a semester off? Will I receive the LEAD scholarship when I return?

Yes, the LEAD Scholarship will remain in your financial aid package and will be applied upon your return, contingent that you are still in good standing with program requirements.