Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026: Everything You Need to Know to Win This Prestigious Award
The Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026 stands as one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships available to high school seniors in the United States. Each year, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation awards $20,000 scholarships to 150 exceptional students who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and a passion for service.
With over 90,000 applicants annually, being named a Coca-Cola Scholar is more than just financial support—it’s a lifelong membership in a network of influential leaders, change-makers, and visionaries. If you’re a student with high aspirations, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to stand out and secure your spot as a Coca-Cola Scholar for the 2025/2026 academic year.
What Is the Coca-Cola Scholarship?
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is a merit-based award given by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation to graduating high school seniors in the U.S. It is not based on financial need. Instead, the foundation focuses on students who show outstanding leadership, academic achievement, and community service.
Since its inception in 1986, the foundation has provided over $84 million in scholarships to more than 6,600 Coca-Cola Scholars. These scholars represent the best of the best and have gone on to attend top universities and lead impactful careers in a wide range of fields.
Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026: Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation |
| Award Amount | $20,000 per scholar |
| Number of Awards | 150 annually |
| Application Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | October 2, 2025 |
| Eligible Students | High school seniors in the U.S. |
| Scholarship Type | Merit-based |
Why Apply for the Coca-Cola Scholarship?
Winning the Coca-Cola Scholarship is about more than just the money—it opens doors to a powerful alumni network, exclusive events, and mentorship opportunities.
Benefits of Being a Coca-Cola Scholar
- $20,000 Award: This can significantly reduce college debt or fund advanced educational opportunities.
- Prestige: Coca-Cola Scholars are recognized nationwide as top achievers.
- Leadership Development: Attend the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Summit in Atlanta.
- Networking Opportunities: Join a lifelong network of Coca-Cola Scholars, including doctors, CEOs, nonprofit leaders, and social entrepreneurs.
- Career Growth: Get access to internships, fellowships, and job opportunities shared within the scholars’ community.
Who Is Eligible for the Coca-Cola Scholarship?
To qualify for the Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
You Must:
- Be a current high school senior attending a U.S.-based school.
- Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, permanent resident, refugee, asylee, Cuban-Haitian entrant, or humanitarian parolee.
- Expect to graduate during the 2025–2026 academic year.
- Plan to pursue a degree at an accredited U.S. postsecondary institution.
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 at the end of your junior year of high school.
- Demonstrate leadership, service, and academic excellence.
You Cannot:
- Be a child or grandchild of a current Coca-Cola employee, officer, or owner.
- Be an international student without legal U.S. residency status.
- Already have earned your high school diploma or equivalent.
What Makes a Strong Applicant?
The Coca-Cola Scholarship doesn’t just look for straight-A students—it’s designed for future leaders. Here’s what sets successful applicants apart:
Leadership
Whether you’re president of the student council, founder of a nonprofit, or captain of a sports team, leadership roles are critical.
Academic Excellence
Most Coca-Cola Scholars are in the top 10% of their class. High SAT/ACT scores, AP/IB classes, and a rigorous course load help your case.
Community Involvement
Volunteer work, service projects, tutoring, or creating programs that benefit others shows commitment to making a difference.
Vision and Impact
Do your activities have long-lasting value? Scholars often start initiatives that continue after they graduate.
Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026 Application Timeline
| Stage | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | August 1, 2025 |
| Application Closes | October 2, 2025 |
| Semifinalists Notified | Late October 2025 |
| Semifinalist Application Due | Mid-November 2025 |
| Regional Finalists Announced | December 2025 |
| Regional Interviews Conducted | January 2026 |
| Finalists Announced | February 2026 |
| Scholars Weekend (Atlanta, GA) | April 2026 |
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
How to Apply For Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026
Applying for the Coca-Cola Scholarship is a multi-stage process, and it’s crucial to submit a polished and complete application.
Step : Prepare Your Resume
Before even opening the application, create a list of:
- Leadership roles
- Community service
- Honors and awards
- Work experience
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Visit www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org.
- Create an account.
- Fill out the application with personal info, extracurriculars, honors, and leadership activities.
- No essays or transcripts are required at this stage.
Step 3: Semifinalist Application (By Invitation Only)
If selected as a semifinalist:
- Submit essays and personal statements.
- Provide two letters of recommendation.
- Upload your academic transcript.
Step 4: Regional Interview (For Finalist Selection)
If you make it to the next round:
- You’ll participate in a virtual interview with a selection committee.
- Focus on your leadership philosophy, impact, and future goals.
Step 5: Become a Coca-Cola Scholar
Winners are invited to Scholars Weekend in Atlanta for leadership training, networking, and celebrations.
Pro Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Be Authentic
Avoid inflating your achievements. The selection panel values honesty and integrity.
Use Action Words
When describing your activities, use strong verbs like “launched,” “led,” “organized,” or “initiated.”
Show Measurable Impact
Instead of just saying you volunteered, say:
“Led a team of 10 to organize monthly cleanups, collecting over 2,000 pounds of trash in a year.”
Demonstrate Growth
Highlight how your experiences changed you or shaped your perspective.
Stay Involved Senior Year
Don’t stop being active after applying. Continued leadership can help if you advance to interviews.
Real Coca-Cola Scholar Success Stories
Fatima, 2023 Scholar
A first-generation student from Texas, Fatima started a literacy program for immigrants in her community. Her initiative helped over 200 adults learn basic English. She now attends Stanford University, majoring in public policy.
Eric, 2024 Scholar
Eric developed an app that connects elderly people with young tech volunteers for basic tech support. His app now has over 1,000 users. He plans to major in computer science at MIT.
These stories demonstrate that Coca-Cola Scholars are change-makers—students who use their passion to create real impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the scholarship renewable?
No. The $20,000 is awarded as a one-time payment, typically spread over four years.
Do I need to submit SAT or ACT scores?
No. Standardized test scores are not required for the initial application.
Can homeschoolers apply?
Yes, as long as they meet all eligibility criteria.
Is financial need considered?
No. The scholarship is 100% merit-based.
Are essays required?
Not for the initial application. Essays are required only if you’re selected as a semifinalist.
Other Coca-Cola Scholarships and Awards
While the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the most well-known, the foundation also offers other scholarships:
Coca-Cola Community College Academic Team
- Awarded in partnership with Phi Theta Kappa.
- Recognizes top community college students.
Coca-Cola Leaders of Promise
- $1,000 scholarships for Phi Theta Kappa members.
Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarships
- Offered through various college partners for students who are the first in their family to attend college.
Check with your school’s financial aid office or CCSF’s website for more info.
Final Thoughts
The Coca-Cola Scholarship 2025/2026 is not just a scholarship it’s a springboard into a future of leadership, influence, and impact. It rewards more than just grades; it seeks students who lead with heart and serve with purpose. If you’re ready to shape the future, this scholarship could be your launchpad.
Start early, stay organized, and remember: it’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing what matters with passion and purpose.