Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship 2026

The Jackie Robinson Foundation (JRF) Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to high school seniors in the United States. 

It isn’t just a check; it’s a comprehensive four-year program designed to develop leaders.

Scholarship Summary

The JRF Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides generous financial support and extensive mentoring to minority high school students. 

Unlike one-time payouts, this scholarship follows you through four years of college, offering networking, internships, and leadership training.

Feature	Details
Scholarship Value	Up to $35,000 over four years
Awards Available	Approximately 60 annually
Application Deadline	January 7, 2026 (5:00 p.m. EST)
Target Audience	Minority high school seniors
Renewable?	Yes, for four years

Scholarship Coverage: More Than Just Tuition

The financial aspect of the JRF Scholarship is significant, offering up to $35,000 distributed over four years. 

However, the true value of the award lies in its programmatic support, which many alumni cite as more valuable than the money itself.

The award package includes

• Mentoring: Hands-on mentoring from JRF staff, alumni, and corporate partners.
• Conferences: Financial sponsorship to attend the annual four-day “Mentoring and Leadership Conference” in New York City.
• Internships: Access to internship and permanent job placement assistance through JRF’s corporate partners.
• Fellowships: Opportunities for additional funding for study abroad (Rachel Robinson International Fellowship) or graduate school preparation (Extra Innings Fellowship).

Eligibility and Selection Process

The selection committee looks for more than just high grades; they are looking for the next generation of leaders who embody the values of Jackie Robinson: courage, integrity, and humility.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the 2026 cycle, you must meet all of the following requirements:

Requirement	Description
Status	Graduating high school senior (Class of 2026) or a prior graduate who has not yet enrolled in college.
Citizenship	Must be a United States citizen.
Demographics	Must identify as a minority student.
College Plans	Plan to attend an accredited 4-year college/university in the U.S. (or affiliated with a U.S. institution).
Academics	Evidence of academic excellence (typically high GPA and rigorous course load).
Test Scores	Optional. You may submit SAT, ACT, AP, or IB scores, but they are not mandatory.
Credit Limit	You must not have accrued more than 25% of the credits needed to graduate from college.
Leadership	Demonstrated leadership potential and dedication to community service.
Financial Need	Must present evidence of financial need (assessed via CSS Profile).

The Selection Process

The review process is rigorous. After the initial screening of applications, semi-finalists are selected for regional interviews. 

These interviews are a critical component and are typically conducted virtually.

2026 Application Timeline

Staying on top of dates is crucial. Below is the confirmed timeline for the 2025-2026 application cycle.

Date	Event
September 2, 2025	Application Opens
January 5, 2026	Drop-in Q&A Session (12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET)
January 7, 2026	Application Deadline (5:00 p.m. EST)
Feb – April 2026	Application Review Period
April – May 2026	Semi-Finalist Interviews (Virtual)
June 2026	Final Winner Announcement

How to Apply for the Jackie Robinson Scholarship

The application is entirely online. JRF does not accept paper applications or mailed transcripts. Follow these steps to ensure your submission is complete.

Step 1: Create Your Account

Visit the official JRF Application Portal (link typically active in September) to create your profile.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Before you begin filling out forms, ensure you have the following ready:

• High School Transcript: An unofficial transcript is accepted for the initial application.
• Test Scores (Optional): If you believe your SAT/ACT scores strengthen your application, have the files ready.
• Household Information: You will need details about your parents’ or guardians’ employment and income.
• Activities List: A comprehensive list of your extracurriculars, community service, and distinctions/awards.
• Photo: A professional-looking headshot (high resolution).

Step 3: Complete the CSS Profile

This is where many applicants get stuck. You must complete the College Board CSS Profile to prove financial need.

• Go to cssprofile.collegeboard.org.
• Use the JRF code: 4248.
• Important: If you do not select the Jackie Robinson Foundation as a recipient school using this code, JRF will not receive your financial data, and your application will be deemed incomplete.

Step 4: Write the Essays

You will be required to write four essays. While the prompts may vary slightly year to year, they generally ask you to discuss:

1. Your leadership experience.
2. A challenge you have overcome.
3. Your dedication to community service.
4. How Jackie Robinson’s legacy influences your life.

Tip: Be authentic. The committee wants to know you, not a polished version of what you think they want to hear.

Step 5: Secure a Recommendation

You need one letter of recommendation.

• Who to ask: A teacher, counselor, coach, or mentor who knows you well. Do not ask a family member.
• The Process: You will enter their email in the application portal. The system sends them a link to upload the letter.
• Timing: Send the request immediately after opening your account. Ensure they submit it at least 24 hours before the January 7 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an athlete to apply?

No. While Jackie Robinson was a legendary athlete, this is a merit-based academic scholarship. You do not need to play sports to be eligible.

Is there a minimum GPA requirement?

JRF does not strictly publish a minimum GPA, but “academic excellence” is a core criterion. Most successful applicants have high GPAs and strong academic records.

Can I apply if I haven’t been accepted to a college yet?

Yes. You can (and should) apply before you receive college acceptance letters. However, if you win, you will need to verify enrollment at an accredited 4-year U.S. institution.

Can I get an extension if I miss the deadline?

No. The deadline of January 7, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. EST is strict. No late materials are accepted.

Does the scholarship work for graduate school?

The primary scholarship is for undergraduate studies only. However, JRF Scholars may later apply for the “Extra Innings Fellowship” to help fund graduate education.