
Riordan Scholars Program
As a Riordan Scholar, you will prepare to enter a top-tier university and find a clear path to leadership success.

“The Riordan Scholars Program left an indelible mark on my life, exposing me to the importance of strategically preparing for success, relationship building and launching my brand. These foundational skills have had a profound impact on my life. The program exposed me to the stock market as a sophomore in high school, which fundamentally changed my life trajectory. My involvement since 2001 is largely a testament to how important the program was and continues to be for me.”
George Bahamondes
Vice President, Deutsche Bank
Riordan Scholar 2004
About the Riordan Scholars Program
- Mentorship by current UCLA Anderson MBA students
- Stock Market Analyst Competition and Real Estate Competition
- SAT prep workshops
- Guest lectures from top leaders in corporate and academic communities
- Personalized College Action Plan counseling
- College application and financial aid workshops
- Leadership development seminars
Why Apply?
Will you be the first in your family to go to college? Do you see yourself as a future leader in business or in the community? Every year, we elevate our students to the places they feel they are meant to be. Our founders envisioned this program to be nothing short of transformational.

Applying to the Riordan Scholars Program
Deadline: June 23, 2023
Program Dates: September 2022–May 2023
Decisions: August 9, 2023

Online Application
Complete the online application.

Transcript(s)
Upload a copy of your unofficial transcript(s) to the online application. Your application is considered incomplete without the transcript(s).

Reference
Submit contact information of one teacher, counselor or community reference. Notify your listed reference that you have applied, as we may contact him or her directly.

Essays
Each essay must be between 400 and 600 words long. This is your opportunity to introduce yourself to The Riordan Programs and describe how The Riordan Scholars Program can benefit you in pursuing your long-term career and/or academic goals.
- Essay 1: The Riordan Scholars Program seeks applicants with a range of academic interests, personal perspectives and life experiences. Describe your personal background and the qualities and accomplishments you would bring to The Riordan Scholars Program.
- Essay 2: Why are you interested in spending eight Saturdays as a participant in The Riordan Scholars Program? How can the program contribute to your future education and career goals?
- Essay 3 (optional): Is there anything you would like us to know about you or your academic record that you have not had the opportunity to describe elsewhere in this application?
Prior experience in or knowledge of business is not required. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Rising sophomore, junior or senior in high school by the start of the program (limited space available for seniors)
- Be the first generation in their family to attend a four-year college
- Demonstrate leadership skills and active involvement at school and in the community
- Have a strong academic record (at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale)
Program Details
Program Schedule
2023–2024 Tentative Session Dates
Session Schedule |
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Orientation: September 16, 2023 |
Session 1: October 14, 2023 |
Session 2: November 18, 2023 |
Session 3: December 9, 2023 |
Session 4: January 20, 2024 |
Session 5: February 17, 2024 |
Session 6: March 16, 2024 |
Session 7: April 13, 2024 |
Session 8: May 2024 |
SAT Prep Schedule |
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SAT Practice Test 1: TBD |
SAT Bootcamp 1: TBD |
SAT Practice 2 - TBD |
SAT Bootcamp 2: TBD |
SAT Additional Session: TBD |
SAT Practice Test 3: TBD |
Session attendance is mandatory for all students. SAT test prep is also mandatory for all 10th-and-11th grade students. All dates are subject to change, and session format (online vs. in person) will be determined by Los Angeles County’s guidelines regarding in-person learning.
Participation in the Riordan Scholars Program is granted on a tuition-free basis to those who are admitted. Supplies and materials are provided during the monthly Saturday sessions (September–May), along with continental breakfast and lunch.
While transportation to the monthly Saturday sessions at UCLA will be provided from selected schools within the Los Angeles Unified School District, alternative methods of transportation are encouraged. Choices include being dropped off at the UCLA Anderson campus, carpooling with other Scholars, and taking public transportation. Bus tokens and parking will be provided on a case-by-case basis, and prior notice is required.
Admitted Riordan Scholars are required to attend all monthly Saturday sessions and all SAT test preparation sessions (sophomores and juniors). Riordan Scholars are expected to exhibit a professional demeanor and actively participate in all session discussions, workshops and activities. Respect toward fellow Scholars, programming staff, mentors and session guests, including faculty members, professional speakers and volunteers, is obligatory. Appropriate professional attire is required at all Riordan Programs functions.