As a parent guiding your child through the college application process, understanding the landscape of available scholarships is crucial. Today, we’re spotlighting five of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships that could significantly impact your child’s educational future. These scholarships are not tied to specific institutions, making them accessible to high-achieving students nationwide.
National Merit Scholarship Program
The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most well-known and respected scholarship competitions in the United States. Here’s what you need to know:
- Eligibility: High school students must take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year or earlier.
- Award: $2,500 one-time scholarships, with additional corporate-sponsored and college-sponsored scholarships available.
- Selection: Based on PSAT scores, academic records, and other achievements.
- Key Fact: Approximately 7,500 students receive Merit Scholarship awards annually.
For more information, click here.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is known for its substantial awards and commitment to supporting future leaders:
- Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Award: 150 scholarships of $20,000 each year.
- Selection: Based on academic excellence, leadership, and service.
- Key Fact: The program emphasizes a passion for social justice and community involvement.
Deadline: September 30
For more information, click here.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship
This scholarship is particularly noteworthy for its generous award amount and focus on high-achieving students with financial need.
- Eligibility: High-achieving high school seniors with financial need.
- Award: Up to $55,000 per year for four years of undergraduate study.
- Selection: Considers academics, leadership, perseverance, and service.
- Key Fact: Can be used at any accredited 4-year college in the United States.
Deadline: November 14
Students will apply using the Common App. For more information, click here.
Gates Scholarship
The Gates Scholarship, established by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, offers an exceptional opportunity for minority students:
- Eligibility: Outstanding minority high school seniors with significant financial need.
- Award: Covers full cost of attendance not covered by other financial aid.
- Selection: Based on academic achievement, leadership, and personal success skills.
- Key Fact: Provides additional support beyond financial assistance, including mentoring and academic support.
Deadline: September 15
For more information, click here.
Elks National Foundation Most Valuable Student Competition
This scholarship program, run by the Elks National Foundation, offers a range of awards:
- Eligibility: High school seniors who are U.S. citizens.
- Award: 500 four-year scholarships ranging from $4,000 to $50,000.
- Selection: Based on academics, leadership, and financial need.
- Key Fact: Encourages students to “dream big” and rewards those who demonstrate a commitment to making a difference in their communities.
Deadline: November 12
For more information, click here.
