Coca-Cola Scholarship Requirements: Everything You Need to Know to Apply

For driven and service-minded high school seniors, the Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious and competitive scholarships available. Each year, this nationally recognized program awards 150 scholarships worth $20,000 each to exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to making a difference.

Whether you’re already drafting your application or just beginning to explore your options, understanding the Coca-Cola Scholarship requirements can help your chances – so here is everything you need to know about the Coca-Cola Scholarship programs, eligibility guidelines, application process, and tips to help your application stand out. Plus, we’ll show you how the National Society of High School Scholars can support your journey.

What Is the Coca-Cola Scholars Program?

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is the flagship initiative of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded in 1986 to support the education of promising young leaders. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $87 million in scholarships to more than 6,900 students.

This achievement-based scholarship is not just about grades—it seeks students who lead by example, serve their communities, and inspire others. Scholars join a lifelong network of high-achieving alumni and gain access to events, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.

 

 

Coca-Cola Scholarship Requirements

To qualify for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a current high school senior attending a U.S. school (including homeschoolers, D.C., Puerto Rico, and eligible DoD schools)

• Graduate in the current academic year

• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, permanent resident, refugee, asylee, Cuban-Haitian entrant, or humanitarian parolee

• Plan to attend an accredited U.S. postsecondary institution full-time

• Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale at the time of application

Ineligible applicants include:

• Children or grandchildren of current Coca-Cola bottling company or Coca-Cola Company employees

• International students (unless attending an eligible DoD school)

• High school graduates or GED recipients

It’s important to note that no essays, transcripts, or recommendation letters are required in the initial application. The focus is on your achievements and impact.

How to Apply for the Coca-Cola Scholarship

The application window typically opens in August and closes in late October. Applications are completed online through the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation portal.

You will need to:

1. Create an account on the application platform.

2. Complete the eligibility quiz to ensure you meet all requirements.

3. Fill in details about your academic honors, leadership roles, volunteer service, and work experience.

Be as thorough as possible when filling out the form. Every leadership role, academic award, or volunteer hour helps demonstrate your strengths.

 

 

 

Selection Process: From Application to Award

Out of approximately 90,000 applicants each year, only 150 students ultimately receive the Coca-Cola Scholarship. The process includes several rounds:

1. Semifinalists (2,000 selected): Based on application strength

2. Regional Finalists (250 selected): Participate in interviews

3. Coca-Cola Scholars (150 awarded): Announced in March

In addition to the financial award, scholars are invited to the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, where they participate in leadership development, service projects, and networking events.

How to Strengthen Your Application

To rise to the top of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation applicant pool, your application should reflect consistent leadership, community involvement, and academic success. You can read through our Top 5 Tips to Guarantee Your Scholarship Application Is a Winner, but here are the most important things to know.

Be detailed and specific. Don’t just list an activity—explain your role, accomplishments, and the impact of your work. Quantify your contributions whenever possible. For example, instead of simply saying you volunteered, mention that you “organized a food drive that collected 1,200 cans for local shelters.” Highlight all types of leadership, formal or informal—even mentoring a younger student or starting a school club shows initiative.

It’s also wise to use each section of the application to showcase different facets of your experience. Avoid repeating information, and paint a full picture of who you are.

If you’re looking for more guidance, explore the dos and don’ts of Navigating the Scholarship Application Process, and take a look at our Scholarship Application Tips from Dr. Susan Thurman. 

NSHSS and Your Scholarship Journey

Applying for the Coca-Cola Scholarship is an ambitious step—and NSHSS can help you make the most of it.

As an NSHSS member, you gain access to exclusive scholarships, academic recognition, career resources, and a network of high-achieving peers. The organization offers workshops, college fairs, and resources tailored to scholarship applicants. By becoming part of NSHSS, you’re opening the door to a community that values your ambition and supports your goals.

Thousands of NSHSS members go on to apply for and win major scholarships like the Coca-Cola Scholars Program. Membership demonstrates your commitment to academic excellence and civic leadership—the very traits that the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation looks for.

Additionally, NSHSS keeps you up to date on deadlines, essay tips, and leadership opportunities that can bolster your scholarship profile. When you’re plugged into a supportive organization like NSHSS, you’re more equipped to build a competitive application and stay focused on your long-term goals.

 

Is the Coca-Cola Scholarship Right for You?

If you’re a high school senior who has made a real difference in your community, the Coca-Cola Scholarship offers a life-changing opportunity. With $20,000 in funding, access to a powerful alumni network, and recognition as one of the top student leaders in the country, this program is a steppingstone to bigger dreams.

And remember, the Coca-Cola Scholarship is just one of many prestigious awards out there. Being involved with organizations like NSHSS can open even more doors and help you stay informed about upcoming deadlines, essay strategies, and leadership opportunities.

Ready to make your mark? Explore NSHSS resources and scholarships and start your Coca-Cola Scholarship application today at coca-colascholarsfoundation.org.