The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program is now open for the 2026–2027 academic year. This prestigious opportunity allows eligible students to pursue undergraduate studies in the United States. This article provides a clear overview of the scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility requirements, and application process.
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship is a fully funded undergraduate scholarship designed for high-achieving American students with demonstrated financial need. The program provides financial support of up to USD 55,000 per year, along with comprehensive college planning assistance, ongoing academic advising, and access to a strong national network of Cooke Scholars and alumni.
The Cooke College Scholarship Program targets exceptional high school seniors who aspire to enroll in and graduate from the nation’s leading four-year colleges and universities. It is recognized as the largest undergraduate scholarship program in the United States for students with significant financial need.
In addition to substantial financial assistance, Cooke Scholars benefit from individualized educational advising, cohort-based leadership and enrichment programming, and eligibility for graduate school funding. Scholars also become part of a vibrant community of more than 2,800 current scholars and alumni across the country.
Each scholarship award is tailored to the individual recipient and is intended to cover a significant portion of educational expenses, including tuition, books, living costs, and required fees. The final award amount depends on the cost of attendance and any additional grants or scholarships the student may receive.
Scholarship Summary
Level of Study: Undergraduate
Institution(s): Accredited American Colleges and Universities
Study Location: United States
Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded (up to USD 55,000 per year)
Application Deadline: November 14, 2025
Applications Open: August 20, 2025
Scholarship Benefits
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship provides:
– Financial support of up to USD 55,000 per year
– Freedom to pursue any field of undergraduate study
– Personalized advising on college selection and financial aid
– Ongoing guidance to support a successful transition to college life
– Access to leadership development programs and a nationwide scholar network
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
– Language Requirement: English
– Eligible Country: United States
– High School Status: Must be a high school senior planning to graduate from a U.S. high school in spring 2026
– College Enrollment: Intend to enroll in an accredited four-year college in fall 2026
– Academic Requirement: Minimum cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.5
– Financial Need: Demonstrate unmet financial need; applicants with family income up to USD 95,000 are considered (the previous cohort had a median family income of approximately USD 35,000)
Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed individually by a national committee of education professionals. Selection is based on the following factors:
– Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and compelling teacher recommendations
– Leadership: Evidence of initiative, influence, and positive community involvement
– Persistence: Resilience, adaptability, and determination in overcoming challenges
– Financial Need: Demonstrated unmet financial need within the program’s income guidelines
How to Apply
Applicants must complete and submit an online application through the official Jack Kent Cooke Foundation website during the application period.