Kern Promise (Bakersfield College)

The Kern Promise pays tuition and gives a $250 book scholarship each semester to first-time students starting at Bakersfield College, plus priority course registration. Students who complete an Associate Degree for Transfer within two years are guaranteed junior-standing admission to any of the 23 California State University campuses. It's a one-time opportunity — each student gets a single shot at joining — through an interest form that Kern Community College District opens every January.

Eligibility

DemographicsOpen to first-time college students (California resident or AB 540-eligible) enrolling at Bakersfield College, including graduating Kern County high school seniors — dual/concurrent-enrollment credit doesn't disqualify you.

Applying

Covers tuition and gives a $250 book stipend each semester, plus priority registration and a guaranteed CSU transfer path — not a lump-sum cash award.