The Jack Kent Cooke College Scholarship provides up to $55,000 annually to exceptional high school seniors with financial needs, covering tuition, living expenses, and other education-related costs. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 cycle is November 14, 2024.
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s College Scholarship is a prestigious program designed to support high-achieving high school seniors from low- to moderate-income backgrounds. Recipients can receive up to $55,000 annually for tuition, living expenses, books, and other educational costs. Beyond financial aid, the program offers academic advising, career guidance, internship opportunities, and study-abroad programs. Scholars also join a robust network of peers within the Cooke Scholar community.
Selection criteria include academic excellence, leadership, persistence in overcoming challenges, and financial need. Applicants come from diverse regions, including U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and Guam, and represent thousands of high schools nationwide. Additionally, scholars can apply for graduate school funding to continue their educational journey with the foundation’s support.
Each year, about 60 new students are awarded the scholarship, joining others supported through the Cooke Young Scholars Program, forming a growing community of accomplished students across disciplines such as engineering, computer science, and fine arts.
Universities and Programs:
Scholars can attend any accredited four-year university or college in the U.S., pursuing any field of study. The duration aligns with the typical undergraduate programs, usually 4 years.
Study Areas:
There are no specific restrictions; students are encouraged to select any major or field of interest.
Scholarship Benefits:
- Up to $55,000 per year to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
- Advising on college selection, financial aid, and maximizing the student experience.
- Access to a network of scholars and alumni.
- Opportunity to graduate with minimal or no debt.
Exclusions:
- Some personal expenses and non-essential items may not be covered.
Eligibility Criteria:
- High school seniors in the U.S., U.S. territories, or U.S. military bases planning to enroll in a 4-year college in fall 2025.
- GPA of at least 3.75 (unweighted).
- Demonstrated financial need, with family income generally not exceeding $95,000.
- Strong academic achievement, leadership qualities, and persistence.
Required Documents:
- Two academic recommendations (one from an 11th-grade teacher).
- A counselor recommendation and school report.
- High school transcripts (self-reported initially).
- Essays and personal statements via the Common App.
Application Process:
- Applications are submitted online through the Common App, with students invited to provide documents, recommendations, and personal essays.
- Applicants will be notified about semifinalist status in January 2025, with final recipients announced in March 2025.
Tips for Success:
- Highlight both academic excellence and leadership qualities in your essays.
- Ensure recommendations provide specific insights into your character and performance.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of financial needs and articulate future goals effectively.
FAQs:
- Q: Can international students apply?
A: The scholarship is intended for U.S.-based high school seniors or those studying on U.S. military bases or territories. - Q: Is there a limit on family income to apply?
A: Applicants with an annual family income up to $95,000 can apply, though most recipients come from families with incomes below $40,000. - Q: Can the scholarship be used for graduate studies?
A: No, this scholarship is for undergraduate programs, but other Cooke Foundation programs may support graduate studies. - Q: Can students choose any major?
A: Yes, students are free to pursue any area of study. - Q: What happens if I win another scholarship?
A: The Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship provides last-dollar funding, meaning it covers any
Official Link for More Details:
For further details and to apply, visit the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation website.