The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation has officially announced the Coca-Cola Scholars Class of 2026, recognising 150 exceptional high school seniors across the United States with one of the most prestigious merit-based scholarships available.
Each selected student will receive a $20,000 college scholarship, bringing the total funding for the 2026 cohort to $3.1 million. Beyond financial support, the program connects students to a powerful network of alumni leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in communities around the world.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is widely regarded as the largest corporate-sponsored, achievement-based scholarship program in the United States, jointly supported by The Coca-Cola Company and Coca-Cola bottling partners nationwide.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program 2026 Summary
| Scholarship Name | Coca-Cola Scholars Program |
|---|---|
| Organization | Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation |
| Scholarship Value | $20,000 |
| Number of Winners | 150 Students |
| Total Funding 2026 | $3.1 Million |
| Eligibility | U.S. High School Seniors |
| Application Period | August 1 – September 30, 2026 |
| Scholarship Type | Merit-Based |
| Official Website | https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org |
About the Coca-Cola Scholars Program
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation established the Coca-Cola Scholars Program in 1986 to recognize and reward students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to community service.
Since its founding, the program has supported more than 7,200 scholars nationwide, awarding over $90 million in scholarships to outstanding students who are shaping the future through leadership and service.
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is highly competitive and attracts applicants from across the United States each year.
Coca-Cola Scholars Class of 2026
For the 2026 scholarship cycle, the foundation selected 150 high school seniors as Coke Scholars.
These students were chosen from an extraordinary pool of more than 107,000 applicants, making the selection rate less than one-seventh of one percent.
The selected scholars stood out due to their:
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Outstanding academic achievements
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Demonstrated leadership potential
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Commitment to community service
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Passion for creating positive change
Their selection reflects not only academic success but also their dedication to improving the world around them.
Scholarship Benefits
Students selected for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program 2026 receive more than just financial assistance.
1. $20,000 College Scholarship: Each scholar receives a $20,000 award to support their college education.
2. Leadership Development Opportunities: Scholars participate in programs designed to enhance leadership and personal growth.
3. Access to a Powerful Alumni Network: Recipients join a global community of over 7,200 Coca-Cola Scholars alumni.
4. Professional Development and Mentorship: Students benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, and career development resources.
5. Community Impact Opportunities: The program encourages scholars to continue making a positive difference in their communities.
Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend 2026
The newly selected scholars will gather in Atlanta, where the headquarters of The Coca-Cola Company is located, for the annual Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend.
Event Details
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Dates: April 23 – April 26, 2026
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Location: Atlanta, Georgia
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Activities Include:
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The Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet
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Leadership Development Institute
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Networking with alumni and program leaders
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During the event, scholars will participate in leadership training sessions facilitated by program alumni and connect with peers who share similar passions for leadership and service.
The Impact of the Coca-Cola Scholars Network
One of the most valuable aspects of the scholarship is the lifelong community of alumni.
The Coca-Cola Scholars alumni network provides:
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Professional mentoring
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Collaboration opportunities
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Leadership training programs
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Service summits focused on global impact
Many alumni have gone on to become entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, government officials, and innovators, continuing the program’s mission of creating positive change worldwide.
How to Apply for the Coca-Cola Scholars Program 2027
Students interested in becoming future Coca-Cola Scholars should prepare early for the next application cycle. You can visit the official website here:https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org/2026-coke-scholars/
Application Timeline
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Application Opens: August 1, 2026
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Application Deadline: September 30, 2026
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants must:
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Be high school seniors in the United States
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Demonstrate academic excellence
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Show leadership potential
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Have a record of community involvement
Applicants are evaluated based on leadership achievements, service activities, academic performance, and their commitment to making a difference in society.
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Why the Coca-Cola Scholarship Is Highly Competitive
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is considered one of the most competitive scholarships in the United States due to its prestige and generous funding.
Each year:
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Over 100,000 students apply
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Only 150 scholars are selected
Because of this, successful applicants typically demonstrate extraordinary leadership and community engagement, in addition to strong academic records.
Tips to Become a Coca-Cola Scholar
Students hoping to become future scholars should focus on these key areas:
- Develop Strong Leadership Skills: Participate in student government, clubs, or community organizations.
- Maintain Excellent Academic Performance: A strong GPA helps demonstrate commitment to education.
- Volunteer and Serve Your Community: Community service is a major factor in the selection process.
- Highlight Your Impact: Show how your leadership has positively influenced others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Coca-Cola Scholars scholarship worth?
Each selected scholar receives $20,000 to support their college education.
How many students are selected each year?
The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation selects 150 high school seniors annually.
When does the application open?
The application period for the next cycle runs from August 1 to September 30, 2026.
Is the Coca-Cola scholarship only for U.S. students?
Yes. The scholarship is primarily designed for high school seniors studying in the United States.
NOTE:
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program 2026 continues its legacy of recognizing exceptional young leaders who are committed to academic excellence and community impact.
With $20,000 scholarships, leadership development opportunities, and access to a powerful alumni network, the program helps students transform their passion for change into meaningful action.
Students planning to apply in the 2027 cycle should begin preparing early to maximize their chances of joining this prestigious community of scholars.
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