Grand Canyon University Expands the Canyon Rising Scholarship
Grand Canyon University is taking a major step to widen access to college. Through the Canyon Rising Scholarship, full tuition will be covered for 305 Arizona students in the upcoming academic year. It’s a clear, practical move toward making higher education reachable for more families who’ve been waiting for a door to open.
Transforming Lives Through Education
Formerly known as the Students Inspiring Students Scholarship, Canyon Rising has grown in both size and support. The program now offers 305 full-tuition scholarships for deserving, high-achieving students, with a focus on low-income high school seniors. In addition, 100 of these awards include on-campus housing and meal plans, easing the cost of room and board so students can focus on class, community, and next steps. Taken together, it’s a stronger safety net—and a stronger start.
Community Growth and Opportunity
Brian Mueller, president of Grand Canyon University, underscored a simple truth: education can equalize opportunity. When students gain meaningful access to learning, doors open across every socioeconomic background. That vision shows up in who’s receiving support. Since the program’s early days, most recipients have been first-generation college students and individuals from diverse backgrounds—an outcome squarely aligned with GCU’s commitment to lift the surrounding community.
Expanding the Program’s Reach
The scholarship began in 2016 through a partnership with Alhambra High School. Since then, it has steadily expanded to more than 20 inner-city schools and continues to widen its reach across Arizona. This year’s tripling of scholarships is a milestone on that path. In total, the program has now surpassed 1,000 full-tuition awards since launch—evidence of consistent, school-by-school growth with real impact.
A Celebratory Evening for Recipients
To recognize the 2024–25 scholarship class, GCU hosted a ceremony at the Global Credit Union Arena. Students crossed the stage to accept their certificates as families, friends, and generous donors cheered them on. It was a proud, personal moment for each recipient—and a reminder that community support often makes the difference between a hope and a plan.
Focus on Career Readiness
GCU’s commitment doesn’t stop at graduation. Canyon Rising scholars gain access to enhanced career counseling designed to connect what they learn in class with opportunities close to home. By linking students to local employment and mentoring, the university strengthens ties between education and community so graduates can contribute—and thrive—right where they live.
A Student’s Perspective
Scholarship recipient Kharlo Ramirez Aleman put it simply: building relationships matters. “You only get university one time; it’s about making connections.” His gratitude, and his focus on connection, echo what many in the community feel—optimism, momentum, and a clearer path forward.
About Grand Canyon University
Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University is Arizona’s leading private Christian university. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, GCU offers an extensive range of academic programs across more than 345 areas of study, certificates, and emphases. The university pairs academic rigor with Christian principles, helping students discover their purpose and step into work that serves others. For further details, explore gcu.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Canyon Rising Scholarship?
It’s a full-tuition scholarship program for high-achieving, low-income high school seniors. Formerly called Students Inspiring Students, Canyon Rising keeps the same mission with a broader reach.
How many scholarships are available for the 2024–25 academic year?
There are 305 full-tuition scholarships for Arizona students in 2024–25, reflecting a significant expansion of the program.
Who does the program prioritize, and what does it cover?
The scholarship prioritizes high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds. All awards cover tuition; 100 of them also include on-campus housing and meal plans.
How has the program grown since it began?
Launched in 2016 with Alhambra High School, the program now reaches more than 20 inner-city schools across Arizona and has surpassed 1,000 full-tuition awards in total. This year’s tripling of scholarships marks a key milestone.
How can students apply for the Canyon Rising Scholarship?
Students can apply through their high schools and find details directly on the Grand Canyon University website.
