How to Apply: Become a Fellow!

Breadcrumb

Are you eligible to become a Fellow? 

UCR College Corps is looking for highly committed college students who are passionate about serving their community. If this is you, apply and join us.

 

2026-2027 application is now open! Apply now, priority screening ends June 1st! 

APPLY TODAY! 


To be eligible, you must be:

  • Ready to start at the anticipated start date: Fall Quarter 2026
  • Full-time, enrolled undergraduate student
  • Must be and must remain in good academic standing throughout the program year
  • Ability to commit to the program for the full 26-27 academic year
  • Have a reliable mode of transportation
    • Some Food Insecurity sites will require personal transportation
  • Education Focus Area only: provide a current, negative TB test result
  • Must be a US Citizen, US National, legal permanent resident or AB-540 Dream Act Student
  • Background check clearance is required for participation in the College Corps program. Because College Corps receives AmeriCorps funding, there are two offenses (sexual assault and/or murder) which will make candidates ineligible to participate in the program

Financial Need

Eligible students should meet at least one of the following four criteria:

  • Qualify for a Federal Pell Grant
  • Qualify for a State Cal Grant
  • Qualify for a Middle-Class Scholarship
  • Needs to work part time and/or borrow student loans to meet educational costs

Fellow Ambassadors 

Fellow Ambassadors in the #CaliforniansForAll College Corps serve as leaders who represent their campus cohort and help connect students with program staff and the statewide initiative. They encourage engagement in service, support fellow students, and promote the value of community leadership.

These are our Cohort 4 Ambassadors. If you’re interested in learning more about the Fellow experience, feel free to reach out to them!


 

 


 

  • To be eligible to serve as a UC Riverside College Corps Fellow, applicants must:
    • Must be 17 years or older by the start of your service term 
    • Must be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States or AB-540 eligible Dream Act student 
    • Must satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check unless an AB-540 eligible Dream Act student 
    • Regardless of whether you are required to complete a background check, you must not have been convicted of a sex offense and/or murder 
    • Must hold a high school diploma, GED or equivalent 
    • Must be an enrolled full-time undergraduate student 
    • Must be in good academic standing 
    • Must be able to commit to the program for one full academic year
  • Serving as a College Corps Fellow offers many benefits, including:
    • Receive Financial Support. Financial benefits up to $10,000 upon successful completion of the term of service, including a $7,000 living allowance and $3,000 in education award(s).
    • Build Real-World Experience. Gain hands-on experience in public service by supporting community-based initiatives across food insecurity, education, and climate action. Fellows work directly with local farms, food pantries, schools, community partners, and nonprofit organizations to address critical community needs. Service activities may include food distribution, tutoring and classroom support for K–12 youth, after-school programming, conservation projects, waste reduction, green space restoration, and public education around sustainable practices. Some placements may include extended outdoor service and lifting materials over 25 pounds.
    • Develop Professional Skills. Participate in workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one mentoring designed to strengthen communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and civic engagement skills.
    • Engage in Community Leadership. Address real community challenges while supporting underserved students, helping families access vital resources, and contributing to educational equity.
    • Join a Statewide Network of Changemakers. Become part of a diverse, statewide cohort of student leaders committed to service, justice, and equity across California.
    • Expand Your Professional Network. Build meaningful connections with educators, community organizations, and civic leaders—opening doors to future internships, jobs, and collaborations.
    • Make a Lasting Difference. Positively impact youth and families in your community through service that lasts well beyond your fellowship year. 
  • Yes! Once you have committed to UC Riverside, you are welcome to apply to the College Corps fellowship program.

    • Serve approximately 12–15 hours per week at your assigned site in order to complete the required 450 hours of service over the course of the program.
      Meet regularly with your site supervisor or assigned teacher/coordinator for guidance, updates on your role, and to communicate any changes to your schedule.
    • Check in monthly with your Assistant Director to ensure you’re on track to meet your 450-hour goal and receive additional support if needed.
      Attend required program events, including the College Corps Orientation, monthly program meetings, a mid-year meeting, a mid-year regional gathering, and statewide convenings to connect and learn alongside other Fellows.
    • Track and log your service hours and submit required documentation through approved program platforms (e.g., America Learns).
    • Participate in both mid-year and end-of-year evaluations with your Assistant Director and site supervisor to reflect on your progress and growth.
  • Yes! College Corps at UC Riverside subsidizes transportation to offset travel costs. This in an optional program that you must opt-in at the start of the program year. And this is only available for Fellows who's sites are off campus. 


If you have more specific questions please feel free to reach out at collegecorps@ucr.edu or Contact Us. 
Let us help you with your search