The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program 2026 is now open for applications, offering $40,000 in renewable awards to high school seniors who exemplify leadership, integrity, citizenship, and academic excellence. The deadline to apply is January 5, 2026, at noon CST.
The GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship Program is one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships available to high school seniors in the United States. Established by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute in partnership with GE, the program honors the legacy of President Ronald Reagan by recognizing students who demonstrate the core values he championed: leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Each year, the program selects a cohort of exceptional students who not only excel academically but also show a deep commitment to serving their communities and leading with character.
For the 2026 cycle, the application window opened on October 13, 2025, and will close promptly on January 5, 2026, at noon Central Standard Time. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their materials well before the deadline, as no extensions will be granted under any circumstances. The application process is hosted on the Kaleidoscope platform, where students must create an account and complete a detailed submission that includes personal information, academic records, extracurricular involvement, and essays that reflect their values and experiences.
To be eligible, students must be U.S. citizens currently enrolled as high school seniors and planning to pursue full-time undergraduate study at an accredited four-year college or university in the United States for the 2026–2027 academic year. A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required, but academic performance alone is not enough—applicants must also demonstrate a strong record of leadership and service. The selection committee looks for individuals who have made a meaningful impact in their schools, workplaces, or communities and who embody the principles of ethical leadership and civic responsibility.
Once the initial application is submitted, semifinalists will be notified by March 1, 2026, and asked to provide additional documentation, including letters of recommendation and further essays. Finalist interviews will take place in April, and recipients will be announced by April 30, 2026. Each selected scholar receives a total of $40,000—distributed as $10,000 per year for up to four years of undergraduate study—provided they maintain satisfactory academic progress and continue to demonstrate leadership and integrity throughout their college career.
Beyond financial support, the GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship offers recipients access to a powerful alumni network, leadership development opportunities, and invitations to exclusive events hosted by the Reagan Foundation. Scholars become part of a lifelong community of changemakers who are committed to making a positive difference in the world.
For students who aspire to lead with purpose and character, this scholarship is not just a financial award—it’s a gateway to personal growth, national recognition, and a future shaped by service and excellence. Interested applicants can learn more and begin their application at the official GE-Reagan Foundation Scholarship page.