Coca‑Cola Scholarship 2025 | Apply Now
Overview of the Scholarship
The Coca‑Cola Scholars Program Scholarship is one of the most prestigious corporate scholarships in the United States. Established by the Coca‑Cola Scholars Foundation, it recognizes high school seniors who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to service. Unlike many scholarships that focus narrowly on grades or financial need, the Coca‑Cola Scholarship emphasizes a holistic view of student achievement, rewarding those who have made a meaningful impact in their schools and communities.
Since its inception, the program has supported more than 7,000 scholars with over $87 million in educational funding. Each year, 150 students are selected nationwide to receive the $20,000 award, making it both highly competitive and highly respected. Scholars join a lifelong network of alumni who continue to lead in diverse fields, from business and science to public service and the arts.
The scholarship is achievement‑based, meaning applicants must demonstrate not only strong academics but also leadership qualities and a track record of service. This makes the program particularly appealing to students who see themselves as changemakers and who want to be recognized for their contributions beyond the classroom.
Scholarship Benefits
Each Coca‑Cola Scholar receives a $20,000 scholarship that can be applied toward tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses at the college or university of their choice. This substantial award provides significant financial relief, helping recipients pursue higher education without the burden of excessive student debt.
Beyond financial aid, scholars gain access to a powerful alumni network of more than 7,000 past recipients. This network offers mentorship, career opportunities, and lifelong connections, making the scholarship a gateway to both academic and professional success.
Recipients are also celebrated at the annual Coca‑Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, where they meet fellow scholars, alumni, and leaders from the Coca‑Cola Foundation. This event reinforces the program’s mission of building a community of visionary leaders dedicated to service and excellence.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be current high school seniors attending school in the United States. They must demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership, and service. U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or refugee status is required.
Students are evaluated holistically, with emphasis placed on their ability to lead and serve. This means that extracurricular involvement, volunteer work, and personal essays play a critical role in the selection process.
Importantly, the scholarship is not limited by financial need. Students from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the academic and leadership criteria.
Application Timeline
For the 2025 cycle, the Phase 1 application opened August 1, 2025, and closed September 30, 2025. Semifinalists were announced later in the fall, with finalists selected in early 2026. Winners will be celebrated at the Scholars Weekend in spring 2026.
The annual cycle ensures that new cohorts of students are recognized each year. Students interested in future cycles should prepare early, focusing on leadership and service activities that strengthen their applications.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online through the Coca‑Cola Scholars Foundation portal. Students must create an account, complete the eligibility quiz, and provide transcripts, essays, and documentation of leadership and service.
Apply Here: Coca‑Cola Scholars Foundation – Official Application Portal
Why Apply
The Coca‑Cola Scholarship is more than financial aid—it is a recognition of excellence, leadership, and service. For high school seniors, being named a Coca‑Cola Scholar provides not only funding for college but also entry into a lifelong network of changemakers.
Winning the scholarship can be transformative. It validates the student’s hard work, encourages continued academic achievement, and inspires peers to engage in service. For many recipients, the Coca‑Cola Scholarship is the first major recognition of their potential, motivating them to pursue even greater accomplishments.