The Coolidge scholarship is a full-ride merit scholarship that recognizes academic excellence and leadership potential. It was named after the 30th President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge and is awarded annually to a select group of high-achieving high school students.
The Coolidge Scholarship was established in 2016 and seeks to recognize and reward outstanding high school students for their academic achievements, leadership qualities, and commitment to civic responsibility.
The Coolidge Scholarship is administered by the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of President Coolidge. The scholarship program was created to honor the values and leadership qualities exemplified by Coolidge during his presidency and to support the education of promising students who share similar characteristics.
Eligibility Criteria for the Coolidge Scholarship
The Coolidge Scholarship has specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet to be considered for this prestigious award. While the criteria may evolve, generally, the eligibility requirements include:
- Academic Excellence: Applicants are typically expected to demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, including a strong GPA, challenging coursework, and outstanding standardized test scores.
- Leadership and Civic Engagement: The Coolidge Scholarship places a significant emphasis on leadership potential and a commitment to civic engagement. Extracurricular activities, community service, and leadership roles are considered in the evaluation process.
- Character and Integrity: The scholarship seeks individuals who exhibit strong character, integrity, and a dedication to the values of President Coolidge, including a sense of duty to community and country.
- Interest in Public Policy and Government: While not a strict requirement, a demonstrated interest in public policy, government, and the principles of limited government may strengthen an applicant’s candidacy.
Unique features of the Coolidge scholarship
- The Selection Process: The selection process for the Coolidge Scholarship is rigorous and highly competitive. The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation typically invites a select group of semifinalists to participate in an extensive interview process. During the interviews, applicants have the opportunity to discuss their achievements, aspirations, and their alignment with the principles upheld by President Coolidge.
- The Scholarship Award: The Coolidge Scholarship covers the cost of tuition, room, board, and expenses associated with attending an accredited four-year undergraduate institution. The scholarship is renewable for all four years of undergraduate study, provided that the recipient maintains the academic and leadership standards set by the scholarship program.
- Coolidge Scholars Weekend: Winners of the Coolidge Scholarship are invited to participate in the Coolidge Scholars Weekend, an immersive experience that includes educational and leadership opportunities. This weekend provides scholars with the chance to engage with fellow scholars, explore President Coolidge’s legacy, and connect with leaders in various fields.
Application Process
The application process for the Coolidge Scholarship is rigorous and competitive. It typically involves several stages, including:
- Online Application: Prospective applicants are required to submit an online application, providing details about their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and commitment to public service.
- Semifinalist Evaluation: Based on the initial applications, a select group of students is named semifinalists. Semifinalists are required to submit additional materials, including essays and recommendations.
- Finalist Weekend: Finalists are invited to participate in a Finalist Weekend, where they undergo a series of interviews, discussions, and activities. This weekend serves as an opportunity for the selection committee to get to know the candidates on a deeper level. After the Finalist Weekend, the Coolidge Scholars for that year are selected. The number of scholars chosen can vary, and each scholar receives a full-ride scholarship that covers tuition, room, board, and expenses for four years of undergraduate study.