The 2025 Coca-Cola Scholars Program

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most respected and prestigious scholarship programs in the United States. Established by the Coca-Cola Company in 1989, the program was created to identify and support exceptional high school seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to community service. Each year, the program selects students from a wide range of backgrounds and geographical areas, with the goal of helping them realize their potential and pursue higher education at some of the nation’s top colleges and universities.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program has become an integral part of Coca-Cola’s broader commitment to education and community development. The company understands that education is a powerful tool for personal empowerment, economic mobility, and societal improvement. Through this initiative, Coca-Cola not only invests in the future of individual students but also contributes to the cultivation of a strong and vibrant society. The program is one of the ways in which the company gives back to the community, leveraging its resources to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation

At the heart of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, a nonprofit organization that manages the selection process and ensures the continued success of its scholars. The foundation is dedicated to supporting the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators by providing them with the financial assistance, mentorship, and resources they need to succeed in higher education and beyond. The foundation’s mission is to provide more than just financial aid—it seeks to foster an environment where scholars can grow as individuals and leaders.

Since its inception, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has awarded over $75 million in scholarships to thousands of high school students. The foundation selects approximately 150 Coca-Cola Scholars each year, awarding them a significant financial scholarship to help cover the costs of their college education. The scholarship is not only a financial boon but also a recognition of the hard work, determination, and achievements of the recipients.

Scholarship Benefits

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program provides recipients with a substantial scholarship award that helps alleviate the financial burden of attending college. The scholarship amount is typically $20,000, distributed over four years of undergraduate study. This funding can be used for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses, enabling students to focus on their studies without the stress of financial worries.

However, the benefits of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program extend far beyond the financial support. Scholars gain access to a network of over 6,100 Coca-Cola Scholars across the country, providing an invaluable community of like-minded individuals. This network offers scholars opportunities to collaborate, share ideas, and connect with peers who share similar passions and aspirations. The network also opens doors for professional development and career opportunities, as many scholars go on to become leaders in various fields, including business, government, healthcare, education, and nonprofit organizations.

Moreover, the Coca-Cola Scholars Program provides its recipients with leadership development opportunities. Scholars are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships that enhance their skills and experience. The program places a strong emphasis on leadership, with the goal of cultivating the next generation of leaders who will drive positive change in their communities and the world at large.

Selection Criteria

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants vying for a limited number of scholarships each year. The selection process is rigorous, focusing on academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet certain criteria, including being a U.S. citizen or legal resident, having a minimum GPA of 3.0, and being a high school senior who will graduate in the spring of the application year.

One of the key factors in the selection process is leadership. Coca-Cola Scholars are expected to demonstrate strong leadership qualities through their involvement in extracurricular activities, such as student government, sports, clubs, volunteer work, and other community service projects. The program seeks individuals who have taken on leadership roles and have made a positive impact on their schools and communities.

Another important criterion is academic excellence. Coca-Cola Scholars must have consistently demonstrated a high level of academic achievement throughout their high school years. While standardized test scores are not the sole determining factor, academic performance is considered in the selection process. The program values intellectual curiosity, a commitment to learning, and a desire to excel in all areas of study.

Community service is also a central component of the selection criteria. Coca-Cola Scholars are individuals who not only excel in the classroom but also give back to their communities. The program seeks applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to making a difference in the world by volunteering their time, resources, and energy to help others. Whether through tutoring, organizing charitable events, or participating in local initiatives, Coca-Cola Scholars are individuals who have a strong sense of civic responsibility and a desire to contribute to the greater good.

The Application Process

The application process for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is thorough and requires students to submit a variety of materials, including a detailed application form, essays, and letters of recommendation. Applicants are asked to describe their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership experiences, and community involvement. Additionally, they are asked to share their future goals and how they plan to use their education to make a positive impact in the world.

The application process typically begins in the fall of a student’s senior year and culminates in the selection of the scholarship recipients in the spring. After the initial review of applications, a select group of semifinalists is invited to participate in an interview process, where they have the opportunity to further demonstrate their leadership abilities, academic potential, and commitment to service.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Community

One of the most powerful aspects of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the sense of community it fosters. Scholars become part of a larger network of individuals who share a passion for leadership, service, and academic excellence. This network provides ongoing support throughout their college years and beyond, creating lifelong connections and friendships.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation hosts events and reunions that bring together scholars from across the country. These events offer opportunities for networking, professional development, and personal growth. Scholars are encouraged to stay engaged with the foundation and with one another, sharing their experiences, challenges, and successes.

Conclusion

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship; it is a transformative experience that empowers young people to pursue their dreams and make a lasting impact on the world. By providing financial support, leadership development, and access to a strong community of peers, the program helps students not only succeed in higher education but also become the leaders of tomorrow. For over three decades, the Coca-Cola Scholars Program has been a beacon of hope for thousands of talented and driven students, helping them realize their potential and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.