The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is a highly coveted achievement-based program that awards $20,000 to 150 high school seniors each year. The award recognizes students who have demonstrated leadership, service, and a desire to make a good difference in their schools and communities.
About the Coca-Cola Scholars Program
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program, established in 1986, is one of the flagship initiatives of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to empowering future leaders.
To date, more than 7,000 scholars have received almost $87 million. In addition to the financial award, honorees have access to a lifelong alumni network and leadership development opportunities.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program Eligibility Requirements
The applicants must be:
- Current high school or homeschool seniors graduating in the academic year 2025-2026 in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or designated DoD schools. Students attending American or expat schools abroad are not eligible.
- US citizens, nationals, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, Cuban-Haitian entrants, and humanitarian parolees.
- Plan to enroll in an authorized postsecondary institution in the United States with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Children and grandchildren of Coca-Cola or its companies, international students, high school graduates, and temporary residents are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
- $20,000 provided to each Scholar (one-time, non-renewable).
- Gain access to Scholar’s Weekend in Atlanta, a leadership and community-building event.
- Membership in an elite alumni network that provides mentoring, development, and networking opportunities.
How to Apply for Coca-Cola Scholars Program
The application process are in phases.
Phase 1: Online Application (Aug 1 – Sept 30 2026)
- There is no need to submit essays, transcripts, or recommendations.
- Submit your personal information, GPA, leadership roles, extracurricular activities, and community service.
If chosen as a semifinalist:
Phase 2: Submit essays
transcripts, and recommendations in Phase 2
During Phase 3 (January-February) approximately 250 regional finalists were interviewed virtually.
Final Phase
150 Coca-Cola Scholars were invited to the Scholars Weekend in Atlanta in April.
Key dates and deadlines.
- Application opens on August 1, 2026.
- Deadline: September 30, 2026, 5 PM ET.
- Semifinalists were notified at the end of October.
- Phase 2 Submission: November.
- Interviews for Regional Finalists: January/February 2026.
- Scholars Weekend: April 23–26, 2026 in Atlanta
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
U.S. high school seniors (2026-2027 graduation) with specific citizenship statuses and a GPA ≥ 3.0. Scholarship amount: $20,000, one-time, non-renewable.
Is it merit or need-based?
Merit-based—emphasizes leadership and service.
When should I apply?
August 1–September 30, 2025.
What happens after submission?
Semifinalists advance to Phase 2 submissions, followed by interviews and Scholars Weekend.
What are the benefits other than funding?
Networking, leadership development, mentorship, and access to alumni.
Conclusion
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program provides an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving, service-oriented high school seniors. Becoming a Coke Scholar is a really life-changing achievement, thanks to a rigorous selection process, strong leadership support, and substantial financial backing.
