The Coolidge Scholarship is one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships available in the United States. Designed to recognize exceptional academic achievement, intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a commitment to service, this scholarship provides selected students with a full-ride award covering tuition, room, board, and additional educational expenses for four years of undergraduate study.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about the Coolidge Scholarship for the 2026/2027 cycle, including eligibility, application timeline, benefits, selection criteria, how to apply, and preparation tips.
What Is the Coolidge Scholarship?
The Coolidge Scholarship is an annual, merit-based, full-ride presidential scholarship funded by the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Fund and the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation. It honors the legacy of Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, by empowering academically gifted young leaders with financial support for undergraduate study. This award is designed to remove financial barriers so that recipients can focus on their academic and leadership development.
Unlike many other scholarships, the Coolidge Scholarship is non-partisan and need-blind, meaning financial need is not considered in the selection process. Scholars may pursue any major at any accredited university or college in the U.S. as long as they meet the scholarship’s requirements.
Coolidge Scholarship program 2026/2027 Complete Guide
Who Is Eligible to Apply for 2026/2027?
To be eligible for the Coolidge Scholarship in the 2026/2027 cycle, applicants must meet specific criteria:
1. Academic Status
You must be a current high school junior at the time of application and plan to enroll as a full-time undergraduate student at a U.S. college or university beginning in the fall of 2027.
2. Citizenship
Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents by the deadline. International students studying in the U.S. on visas are not eligible to apply.
3. No Immediate Family Affiliation
Applicants cannot be an immediate family member of current employees, trustees, or significant donors (defined as lifetime giving over a set threshold) of the Coolidge Foundation or its scholarship program.
4. Intended Enrollment
The scholarship requires that students intend to enroll in undergraduate study for the first time as a full-time student in the fall of 2027. Taking a gap year or deferring enrollment is not permitted for the purpose of meeting eligibility.
Benefits of the Coolidge Scholarship
The Coolidge Scholarship is widely regarded as one of the most generous scholarship awards available to high school students in the U.S. Here’s what it covers:
1. Tuition
The scholarship fully covers tuition at any accredited undergraduate institution.
2. Room and Board
You will receive funding for room and board, allowing you to live on campus or in approved housing without worrying about living expenses.
3. Required Fees
Required student fees such as student activity fees, lab fees, and others are included.
4. Books and Supplies Stipend
Scholars receive a stipend to help pay for books, supplies, and other essential academic materials.
2026/2027 Application Timeline
While details for 2026/2027 are still forthcoming, here’s what the previous cycle looked like and what you should expect:
Application Launch
The application typically goes live in late summer or early fall of the year prior to the intended college start year.
Deadline
For the 2025-26 cycle, the deadline was December 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM PT. Expect a similar deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle.
Finalist Notification
All applicants are informed of their status by late spring (often by June 1). Selected finalists will be invited to a Finalist Weekend for interviews and evaluations.
Orientation and Summit
Newly selected scholars attend orientation and scholars’ summits during the summer before their senior year.
Selection Criteria: What the Scholarship Looks For
The Coolidge Scholarship evaluates candidates based on both primary and secondary criteria:
Primary Criterion — Academic Excellence
Academic performance is the core selection factor. This includes GPA, course rigor, achievements, and demonstration of intellectual curiosity.
Secondary Criteria
While academic excellence is critical, the selection committee also looks for:
Interest in public policy and civic engagement
Appreciation for values associated with Calvin Coolidge
Humility and service demonstrated through community involvement or leadership roles
Leadership potential and personal character
Successful applicants typically have strong extracurricular profiles that align with these values.
How to Apply: Tips and Components
1. Application Form
Complete the official online application when it opens. Ensure you have all required information before starting.
2. Essays
Write insightful essays that reflect your academic passion, leadership experiences, and commitment to service. Essays should clearly reflect your motivations and objectives.
3. Letters of Recommendation
Two recommendation letters are required: one that can speak to your academic abilities and one that speaks to your character/service. Choose recommenders who know you well and can provide detailed examples of your achievements.
4. Transcripts and Supporting Documents
Submit current high school transcripts and any additional supporting documents required by the application. The Coolidge Scholarship
Click here to apply from the official website
Preparing to Apply: Best Practices
1. Start Early
Because this is a competitive scholarship, begin preparing during your junior year. Gather materials, request letters of recommendation early, and plan your essays ahead of time.
2. Stay Organized
Keep track of deadlines and ensure that all components of your application are submitted before the deadline.
3. Reflect on Alignment with Coolidge Values
The selection committee looks for students who not only excel academically but also embody the values and principles associated with President Coolidge.
4. Strengthen Your Application
Engage in activities that demonstrate leadership, community service, and intellectual engagement — these can set your profile apart from other applicants.
Coolidge Senators and Other Honors
Even if you are not named a Coolidge Scholar, top applicants may be designated as Coolidge Senators, an honorary title that comes with opportunities to attend the Coolidge Senators Summit and connect with other high achievers.
See also:
- Live Más Scholarship 2026/2027:Full Application Guide:Apply now
- UNIFAST Scholarship Program 2025/2026 Application – Apply Now
- Cameron Impact Scholarship 2025/2026: Full Tuition in the USA
Conclusion Thoughts
The Coolidge Scholarship 2026/2027 presents an extraordinary opportunity for academically gifted high school juniors to secure a full undergraduate education at no cost. With its generous benefits and focus on leadership and service, this scholarship motivates students to pursue excellence with purpose.
If you are passionate about your education and making a meaningful impact, applying for the Coolidge Scholarship could be a life-changing step toward your future.
