IRWIN MUSSEN RESIDENT SCHOLARSHIP

The Irwin Mussen Scholarship was established in memory of Irwin Mussen, longtime affordable housing advocate and former RCD Board Member. The scholarship serves to provide RCD residents with funding to help them further their education. Historically, a total of $30,000 has been awarded in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $6,000.

2026 Application is Now Open

Application Deadline is
Friday, May 8, 2026 at 5 pm Pacific Time.
Applications submitted after the deadline would not be accepted.

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Current resident living in RCD housing
High School senior and above
Returning applicants who have NOT received two (2) prior awards
Resident’s household must be in good rental standing, including but not limited to being:
- Current with all rental payments
- With no current management-initiated legal notices or proceedings outstanding

Eligible Scholarship Expenses

Tuition and fees
Course-related expenses including fees, books, supplies, and equipment
Room and board

Eligible Educational Institutions

Post-secondary and higher education:

Accredited 2-year college with degree program
Accredited 4-year college or university with degree program
Trade or vocational school with certificate program
Job skills training program with certificate (e.g., computer, ESL, or GED)

Individuals enrolling in early childhood, primary, secondary, and postgraduate education schools are not eligible for this scholarship.

Fact Sheet PDF

Required Application Documents

Completed application form
Essay (2-page maximum)
Your letter of recommendation (must be on professional letterhead with current date)

Option 1: Complete Online Application Form

Use the Apply Online button to fill out the online application form, and upload your essay and letter of recommendation:

Apply Online

Option 2: Email Submission

Download the Word document version of the application form, using the button below.
Fill out the form on your computer.
Email the form, your essay, and your letter of recommendation to A link to: scholarship@rcdhousing.org.

Application Form (Word File)

Option 3: In-Person Submission

Download the Word document version of the application form, using the button below.
Print the application form and fill it out by hand.
Submit the paper application, essay, and letter of recommendation to the RCD Resident Services Office located in your building.

Application Form (Word File)