The Coolidge Scholarship Application Guide
The Coolidge Scholarship is a distinguished full-ride presidential award that funds tuition, accommodation, meals, and costs for four years of college. It is applicable at any accredited U.S. institution. Available to students from all backgrounds and fields, this non-partisan, need-blind scholarship offers a unique opportunity for exceptional individuals to pursue their academic aspirations without financial constraints.
How to get the Coolidge Scholarship
Application Process and Timeline
Application Period: Students apply for the Coolidge Scholarship during their junior year of high school. The application is currently open for the Class of 2025.
For Previous Year
Application Deadline: The deadline for the 2023-24 cycle is January 18, 2024, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. All application materials, including letters of reference, must be submitted by this date.
Notification: By summer 2024, all applicants will be notified of their outcomes. Finalists will be contacted directly by phone and invited to the Finalist Interview Weekend.
Finalist Weekend
Finalists are flown to the Coolidge Historic Site in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, for a weekend of interviews with the Coolidge Scholars Finalist Jury. The Coolidge Foundation covers travel and lodging for finalists and one parent. This immersive experience allows finalists to learn about President Coolidge’s life and values while showcasing their potential to embody those ideals which itself is a great learning experience
Over the weekend, participants engage in interactive discussions, attend enriching workshops, and partake in collaborative team-building activities. They connect with esteemed Coolidge Scholars alumni, gaining valuable perspectives and knowledge. The event concludes with one-on-one interviews with the Finalist Jury, showcasing candidates’ academic prowess, leadership capabilities, and dedication to public service.
The Finalist Panel, comprising esteemed individuals sharing the Foundation’s vision, assesses each applicant comprehensively, considering their application, interview, and potential societal influence. This event not only evaluates candidates but also enhances their grasp of the scholarship, inspiring and equipping them to pursue their aspirations.
Orientation: Newly selected Coolidge Scholars will attend an orientation week at the Coolidge Foundation in Plymouth Notch, Vermont, during summer 2024.
Selection Criteria
Primary Criterion: Academic Excellence
- Demonstrate exceptional academic performance in rigorous courses.
- Show intellectual curiosity and depth beyond standard coursework.
- Exhibit a genuine interest in scholarly pursuits.
Secondary Criteria:
- Interest in Public Policy and Coolidge Values: Demonstrate an interest in public policy and values such as civility, enterprise, government thrift, federalism, and constitutional government.
- Humility and Service: Display humility, a sense of service, and a commitment to community improvement.
- Leadership Qualities: Show outstanding leadership potential through extracurricular activities, community service, and other roles.
- Civic Engagement: Maintain a strong record of volunteering or other forms of civic involvement.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Coolidge Scholarship, applicants must:
- Citizenship: Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
- Age: Be currently enrolled as a high school junior, on track to graduate in May/June of their senior year.
- Academic Achievement: Have an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Standardized Test Scores: Possess exceptional standardized test scores, typically above 1400 on the SAT or 30 on the ACT.
- Intent to Enroll: Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. college or university for the fall semester following high school graduation.
- Other Requirements: Meet all other eligibility criteria set by the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, including submitting all required materials and completing necessary interviews or assessments.
How to Apply
Applicants will need to submit:
- Application Form
- Essay
- Recommendations or References
- Transcript
For more information and to apply, visit our website or contact us:
Email: coolidgescholars@coolidgefoundation.org
Phone: 802-672-3389
Address: P.O. Box 97, Plymouth, VT 05056
How many essays for Coolidge Scholarship?
The Coolidge Scholarship application includes three essays.
Requirements Eligibility for the Cameron Impact Scholarship
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of the United States.
- Academic Level: The applicant should currently be a high school junior (11th grade).
- Educational Goals: The applicant must be seeking to pursue a bachelor’s degree.
- Enrollment Status: The applicant should plan to be a full-time student.
- College Location: The applicant must be planning to attend an accredited four-year college or university within the United States.
- Citizenship: The applicant must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.
- Academic Excellence: The applicant must demonstrate proven academic achievement, reflecting their commitment to excellence in their high school studies.