UCLA
Bruin Guardian Scholars Academy
First Star students gathered around smiling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First Star Bruin Guardian Scholars Academy (BGSA)?

BGSA is a four year enrichment program for current high school foster youth throughout Los Angeles County. The academies are a long-term college readiness program that include both four immersive residential summers on a UCLA campus, and monthly sessions during each school year. Throughout all four years, Academy staff provide holistic, long-term education management to the youth and their families to sustain the progress youth make during the Summer Academy. BGSA offers a 2-4 week residential summer academy where youth receive academic support, enrichment, and encouragement needed to assist them in becoming competitive college applicants. The program engages a cohort of students in a variety of fun and active learning opportunities that include academic courses for college credit, independent studies, social and cultural activities, field trips, service learning, and recreational activities.

Putting hands in the center ready to cheer

How do students qualify to join BGSA?

  • Students must currently be in 8th or 9th grade to join (LAUSD schools preferred)
  • Students must be willing to commit to the annual summer academy held in July and monthly Saturday academies during the school year.
  • At least a 2.0 GPA and 90% attendance in current and previous school year, unless there is a reasonable explanation for participation.
  • Must have an open DCFS Case at the time of application.
  • Preference given to students who reside in South, West, or Central Los Angeles.

How do I make a referral?

We are currently accepting applications for 25 students to join BGSA in the Spring of 2025! Referrals can be made by a county social worker, school counselors, foster parents, or other community members. Students are recruited in a cohort model by grade level.

Who is First Star?

First Star improves the lives of foster youth by partnering with child welfare agencies, universities, and school districts to ensure foster youth have the academic, life skills, and adult supports needed to successfully transition to higher education and adulthood. More information can be found @ https://www.firststar.org/learn-more/who-we-are/

Thank you for your interest in BGSA!

See the most frequently asked questions below. Should you have additional questions, please reach out to us at fsbgsa@saonet.ucla.edu