York Merit Scholarship Program

York School proudly offers the York Merit Scholarship Program, designed to recognize exceptional incoming students who demonstrate academic excellence, service to others, and alignment with York’s core values.

These scholarships honor individuals whose vision, integrity, and dedication helped shape York’s history and mission. Through this program, York seeks to support students who are curious thinkers, committed learners, and engaged community members.

Each scholarship provides $10,000 per year and is renewable for the duration of enrollment at York, provided renewal criteria are met.

Please contact our Director of Enrollment, Tracie Lizama, at 831-372-7338 x116 or email her at tlizama@york.org if you have any questions. 

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Important Dates

  • Friday, March 27, 2026
    Applicants notified if selected as finalists (three finalists per scholarship)
  • Saturday, April 11, 2026
    Finalist interviews held on York’s campus
  • Friday, April 17, 2026
    Scholarship decisions announced

Application Process

  • No separate scholarship application is required.
  • A student’s enrollment application also serves as their scholarship application.
  • Students must complete a response form indicating which scholarship they wish to be considered for.
  • Students may apply for one scholarship only.
  • Finalists will be interviewed by a selection committee.
  • A letter of recommendation from a current teacher is required and must be submitted by March 13, 2026.
  • Scholarship awards do not impact eligibility for tuition assistance.

Renewal Criteria

To maintain eligibility, recipients must meet the following criteria each year:

  • Academic Scholarships
    • Maintain a 3.3 GPA each semester
    • Continue to exemplify York’s core values: Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Compassion
  • Service Scholarships
    • Maintain a 3.0 GPA each semester
    • Complete 10 additional service hours per year beyond York’s service requirement
    • Continue to exemplify York’s core values: Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Compassion 

Brenda Aronowitz Service Scholarship

Grade Level: Incoming 8th Grade
Award: One scholarship awarded annually
Amount: $10,000 per year (renewable)

Established in honor of Brenda Aronowitz, a lifelong educator and former York Assistant Head of School. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to service and actively live York’s core values through their actions.

Alfred Diaz-Infante Service Scholarship

Grade Level: Incoming 9th Grade
Award: One scholarship awarded annually
Amount: $10,000 per year (renewable)

Created in memory of Alfred Diaz-Infante, a dedicated York trustee and community leader. This scholarship honors students who strengthen their communities through meaningful service and leadership.

Eric Fink Academic Scholarship

Grade Level: Incoming 9th Grade
Award: One scholarship awarded annually
Amount: $10,000 per year (renewable)

Named in honor of Eric Fink, who dedicated 34 years to York as a chemistry teacher, mathematician, and mentor. This scholarship celebrates students who exhibit scholarly discipline, curiosity, and a passion for learning.

Pam Durkee Academic Scholarship

Grade Level: Incoming 8th Grade
Award: One scholarship awarded annually
Amount: $10,000 per year (renewable)

Established in honor of Pam Durkee, who served York School for 25 years as a beloved math and science teacher. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate strong academic ability, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.