Securing funding for college is often a stressful scramble for partial awards and student loans.
But the Coolidge Scholarship stands in a league of its own. It is a full-ride, merit-based presidential scholarship that covers virtually every expense for four years of undergraduate study at any accredited U.S. college or university.
Because the award is need-blind and non-partisan, the competition is fierce. Thousands of high-achieving high school juniors apply every year, but only a select few are named Coolidge Scholars
Scholarship Summary and Coverage
The Coolidge Scholarship is unique because it travels with the student.
Unlike university-specific awards, you can take this funding to Harvard, State U, or a small liberal arts college as long as it is an accredited U.S. institution.
What does the Coolidge Scholarship cover?
- Tuition: 100% coverage.
- Room and Board: Full coverage for on-campus housing and meal plans.
- Expenses: Required university fees.
- Stipend: An annual stipend for books and supplies.
The “Coolidge Senators” Program
It is important to note that even if you do not win the full-ride scholarship, the top 100 applicants are named Coolidge Senators.
Senators are invited to an all-expenses-paid summit in Washington, D.C. or Vermont and receive a smaller, one-time scholarship (typically $1,000).
This is a massive honor that signals academic excellence to college admissions officers.
Eligibility and Selection Process
The Coolidge Foundation is strict regarding eligibility. Because this is a “junior-year” scholarship, if you miss the window, you cannot apply as a senior.
Eligibility Criteria
| Criteria | Requirement Details |
| Grade Level | Must be a High School Junior (graduating Spring 2027) intending to enroll in college Fall 2027. |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident by the application deadline. |
| Enrollment | Must plan to enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. college for the first time in Fall 2027. |
| Family Ties | Cannot be an immediate family member of employees/donors of the Coolidge Foundation. |
| Gap Years | Not eligible if you plan to take a gap year before college (must enroll Fall 2027). |
Selection Criteria
The selection jury looks for students who embody the values of President Calvin Coolidge. Financial need is not considered.
Academic Excellence (Primary)
This is the most important criterion. Recipients usually pursue the most rigorous course load available (AP, IB, Honors) and demonstrate intellectual depth.
Interest in Public Policy
You do not need to be a Political Science major, but you must demonstrate an interest in how policy shapes the world.
Appreciation for Coolidge Values
Civility, enterprise, government thrift, federalism, and constitutional government.
Humility and Service
Genuine community service is valued over “resume-padding” leadership titles. The jury looks for students who serve their communities selflessly.
2026 Application Timeline
The application cycle for the Class of 2027 runs through the latter half of 2025. Do not wait until December to start, as the required reading takes time.
| Milestone | Date |
| Application Opens | Late Summer / Early Fall 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | Tuesday, December 16, 2025 (5:00 PM Pacific Time) |
| Finalist Notification | Late Spring 2026 (Before June 1) |
| Outcome Announcement | By June 1, 2026 |
| Finalist Weekend | Summer 2026 (Plymouth Notch, VT) |
| Orientation | Summer 2026 (For winners and Senators) |
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
The application is comprehensive and must be submitted through the official Coolidge Scholars portal.
1. The Application Form
You will need to provide your personal background, academic history, and extracurricular activities.
- Tip: When listing activities, focus on depth rather than breadth. Highlight roles where you made a tangible impact on your community.
2. The Essays (The Core of the Application)
This is where most applicants struggle because it requires homework. You cannot simply recycle a Common App essay.
Essay 1 (400 words)
Usually asks about your future academic goals and intellectual frontiers.
Essay 2 (600 words)
Requires you to analyze a specific policy decision made by President Coolidge.
You are required to read the Autobiography of Calvin Coolidge and other provided primary source documents to answer this.
Essay 3 (600 words)
Typically asks for an evaluation of a different Coolidge-era policy (e.g., tax reform or federalism). This also requires reading provided materials.
Insider Tip: You do not have to agree with Coolidge’s policies, but you must demonstrate that you understand his logic. Frame your arguments with civility and evidence-based analysis.
3. Letters of Recommendation
You are required to submit two letters of recommendation.
- Letter 1: Should come from a teacher who can speak to your academic abilities.
- Letter 2: Should come from someone who can speak to your character and community service.
- Format: Letters must be uploaded directly by the recommender and should not exceed 1,200 words.
4. Academic Transcript
An unofficial transcript is acceptable for the initial application. It must show your GPA and class rank (if applicable).
Strategies for a Winning Application
Read the Autobiography Early
The application requires you to cite Coolidge’s Autobiography. It is not a long book, but it is dense. Start reading it in September or October so you aren’t skimming it during finals week in December.
Understand “Civil Disagreement”
President Coolidge valued civility. If you critique his policies in your essays, do so respectfully. Avoid partisan attacks; stick to policy analysis.
Show, Don’t Just Tell
When discussing humility and service, provide concrete examples of how you have helped others without seeking recognition.
Proofread Relentlessly
As a merit-based award, grammatical precision is non-negotiable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am a current high school senior?
No. The Coolidge Scholarship is strictly for high school juniors (students who will complete their junior year in Spring 2027 and graduate in Spring 2027). Seniors are not eligible.
Is the scholarship open to international students?
No. You must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident by the application deadline.
Do I need to be nominated by my school?
No. Any eligible student can apply directly through the website. No nomination is required.
What if I am homeschooled?
Homeschooled students are fully eligible and welcomed. You will submit documentation equivalent to a transcript and follow the same deadlines.
Can I use the scholarship for graduate school?
No. The funds are designated strictly for four years of undergraduate study.
Take the Next Step
The Coolidge Scholarship is more than just money; it is an entry into a network of intellectually curious, service-minded leaders.
While the application is demanding, the process of studying President Coolidge’s leadership style and refining your own policy views is a valuable exercise in itself.
If you are a high school junior ready to tackle the challenge, set your sights on the December 16, 2025 deadline. Start reading, start writing, and good luck!
Emily Carter is an academic writer with 7+ years of experience in education research, specializing in scholarships, admissions, and student calculators. She creates clear, reliable and helpful content to support students in making informed academic decisions.
