The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship 2027 is one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships available to high school seniors in the United States. Administered by the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, the program recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to serving their schools and communities.
Each year, 150 outstanding students are selected to receive a $20,000 scholarship to support their college education. Since its establishment in 1986, the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has awarded more than $90 million in scholarships to over 7,200 Coca-Cola Scholars, making it one of the nation’s most respected scholarship programs.
If you are graduating from high school during the 2026–2027 academic year, applications for the 2027 scholarship open on August 3, 2026.
About the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation (CCSF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting exceptional student leaders across the United States. Through its nationally recognized scholarship programs, the Foundation awards more than $3.55 million in scholarships annually to over 1,400 students.
Rather than focusing solely on academic performance, the Foundation seeks students who have demonstrated leadership, service, and a desire to create meaningful change within their communities.
Scholarship Summary
| Scholarship | Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship 2027 |
|---|---|
| Organization | Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation |
| Scholarship Value | US$20,000 |
| Number of Awards | 150 Scholarships |
| Eligible Applicants | U.S. High School Seniors |
| Scholarship Type | Merit-Based |
| Study Level | Undergraduate |
| Country | United States |
| Application Opens | August 3, 2026 |
| Application Status | Applications Open |
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program receive:
- US$20,000 scholarship toward college education.
- National recognition as a Coca-Cola Scholar.
- Access to a prestigious alumni network.
- Leadership development opportunities.
- Networking with accomplished professionals and fellow scholars.
- Invitation to Coke Scholars Weekend in Atlanta as part of the final selection process.
Who Can Apply?
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is intended for students who:
- Are in their final year of high school.
- Plan to graduate during the 2026–2027 academic year.
- Demonstrate outstanding leadership.
- Have a strong record of community service.
- Show a commitment to making a positive impact in their schools and communities.
- Meet the Foundation’s published eligibility requirements.
Applicants should review the official eligibility criteria before submitting an application.
Selection Criteria
The Foundation looks for students who demonstrate:
- Leadership potential.
- Commitment to community service.
- Academic achievement.
- Initiative.
- Character and integrity.
- Ability to make a meaningful impact on others.
The scholarship is achievement-based and is not solely based on financial need.
Scholarship Selection Process
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program uses a four-phase selection process.
Phase 1 – Online Application
Applications are accepted from August 3 through September 30.
During this stage:
- No essays are required.
- No transcripts are required.
- No recommendation letters are required.
Applicants complete an online application highlighting their achievements and activities.
Phase 2 – Semifinalists
By the end of October:
- Applicants are notified of their status.
- Approximately 1% of applicants become Semifinalists.
Semifinalists submit:
- Essays.
- Academic transcript.
- Recommendation letter.
Phase 3 – Regional Finalists
From approximately 1,200 Semifinalists, 250 Regional Finalists are selected.
Regional Finalists participate in interviews with Coca-Cola Scholar alumni and Foundation staff during late January or early February.
Phase 4 – Coca-Cola Scholars
Following the interviews:
- 150 students are selected as Coca-Cola Scholars.
- Scholars are invited to participate in the required Coke Scholars Weekend held in Atlanta before their selection is officially confirmed.
Application Timeline
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | August 3, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2026 |
| Semifinalist Notification | End of October |
| Semifinalist Application | November |
| Regional Finalist Interviews | Late January – Early February |
| Coca-Cola Scholars Announced | April |
| Coke Scholars Weekend | April |
The Foundation has confirmed that the 2027 application for students graduating during the 2026–2027 academic year opens on August 3, 2026.
Required Documents
Initial Application
The first-stage application requires:
- Online application form.
No essays, transcripts, or recommendation letters are required at this stage.
Semifinalist Stage
Selected semifinalists will need to provide:
- Essays.
- Official academic transcript.
- Recommendation letter.
How to Apply
Step 1
Visit the official Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation scholarship portal.
Step 2
Review the eligibility requirements.
Step 3
Complete the online application.
Step 4
Submit your application before the deadline.
Step 5
If selected as a semifinalist, prepare and submit the additional required documents.
Step 6
Participate in interviews if invited as a Regional Finalist.
Step 7
Attend Coke Scholars Weekend if selected as one of the 150 Coca-Cola Scholars.
Tips for a Competitive Application
To strengthen your application:
- Demonstrate consistent leadership in school and community activities.
- Highlight volunteer work and service projects.
- Showcase measurable achievements and impact.
- Maintain strong academic performance.
- Participate in extracurricular activities that demonstrate initiative.
- If selected as a semifinalist, write thoughtful essays that reflect your leadership journey and future goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Coca-Cola Scholarship worth?
Each selected Coca-Cola Scholar receives a US$20,000 scholarship.
How many scholarships are awarded?
The Foundation selects 150 Coca-Cola Scholars each year.
When does the 2027 application open?
Applications open on August 3, 2026, for students graduating during the 2026–2027 academic year.
Is the first application stage difficult?
The initial application is straightforward because it does not require essays, transcripts, or recommendation letters. These are only requested from semifinalists.
Is this scholarship based on financial need?
No. The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is an achievement-based scholarship that recognizes leadership, service, and impact.
Conclusion
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship 2027 is an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving U.S. high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to community service. With 150 scholarships worth US$20,000 each, the program provides both financial support and lifelong access to a prestigious network of changemakers.
Students planning to graduate during the 2026–2027 academic year should prepare early, build strong records of leadership and service, and submit their applications as soon as the portal opens on August 3, 2026.
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