Overview
Application deadline: April 15, 2025, Midnight
The Don Diego Scholarship Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides scholarships for outstanding high school seniors and graduates who participate in activities and events at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, including the San Diego County Fair. Scholarship winners demonstrate talent for organization, leadership and innovation and make a valuable contribution to the community through participation in events at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, their school and extra- curricular activities.
Scholarships are offered in each of four categories: 4-H, FFA, Employee, and Exhibitor/ Participant. Junior Livestock Auction (JLA) Scholarships are offered to students who qualify for the 4-H or FFA Scholarship and who wish to apply also for a JLA Scholarship. Vocational Education Scholarships are offered to support students pursuing an AA/AS degree or certificate at a community college or accredited trade school. The $5,000 Spanjian Family Scholarship is bestowed upon one of the most exceptional of all recipients.
Winners have four years to use their awarded scholarship.
Before You Start
Questions?
If you have any questions or problems while filling out your application, please email acolburn@dondiegosf.org or call (858) 792-4210.
Required Documents
You’ll need these supporting documents to complete your application. Your completed application, including supporting documents, MUST be submitted by Midnight on April 15, 2025.
Transcript Information
You must submit a transcript of your high school grades. You can upload any type of file, including: PDF, Microsoft Word, JPG, PNG. You can upload pictures of these documents taken from your phone if they are clear and legible.
Letters of Recommendation
You must provide the email addresses of two references that have agreed to write letters of recommendation on character, ability and competency. We will reach out and ask them to submit letters of recommendation to us. Recommenders will have until April 15th to submit their letters.
Biographical Essay
You must submit a brief biographical essay that includes your personal goals for the future. This essay should not exceed 500 words or 3,000 characters.
Vocational Educational Scholarship
The Vocational Education category requires that the student must have participated (prior to the applying year) in an event at the Del Mar Fairgrounds or Horsepark, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club or as an employee of the Fairgrounds, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club or contractor at the Fairgrounds.
Scholarship Criteria
Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:
Applications will be screened by community leaders and Del Mar Fairgrounds staff members, who will select semi-finalists. Semi-finalists will be interviewed by a committee of Don Diego Board Members, who will select the scholarship recipients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Don Diego Scholarship as well as a Jr. Livestock Auction Scholarship?
If you are a 4-H or FFA member and are exhibiting an animal, you are eligible to apply for both scholarships.
Can I apply for two scholarships?
You cannot apply for two Don Diego Scholarships unless it is for a 4-H/FFA Scholarship and a Jr. Livestock Auction Scholarship.
If I start the application, can I finish it later?
Yes, you can save your application and an active link will be sent to your email that is valid for 30 days.
What if I don’t have all the required materials?
Students who have not filled out all of the required elements will not be considered for a Don Diego Scholarship.
