What is the Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship?
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation awards up to $55,000 per year for up to three years to low‑income, high-achieving community college students transferring to top U.S. universities.
Scholarship Benefits
- Last-dollar funding (after other aid), up to $55,000 annually
- Academic and career advising
- Access to a nationwide network of over 3,400 scholars, with opportunities for internships and study abroad
Deadline & Timeline
- Application window: October 3, 2024 – January 9, 2025
- Notification: February–March 2025 (semifinalists to finalists)
- Scholarship begins: Fall 2025
Eligibility
- Currently enrolled in a U.S. community college (international students accepted)
- GPA: typically above 3.5 (average around 3.77)
- Demonstrated financial need (family income ≤ $95,000)
- Strong leadership, service, and academic excellence
How to Apply
- Use the Common App and select “Cooke Transfer Scholarship”
- Submit transcripts, financial aid forms, and recommendation letters
- Write compelling essays on goals, resilience, and leadership
- Document challenges and impact in your community or academic life
Tips from Applicants
- Include personal details about overcoming financial adversity
- Highlight leadership roles in school or community (e.g., clubs, work, volunteering)
- Use tools like MyScholarship.org to track deadlines and requirements
Real-World Insight
From Reddit:
“I received this email from the Jack Kent Cooke… semifinalist… they will announce… in the next 2 weeks.”
Final Thoughts
The Cooke Transfer Scholarship is one of the most generous scholarships for underrepresented international students. If you meet the criteria, apply early, emphasize your achievements and financial need, and plan thoroughly. This is a rare opportunity to graduate debt-free from a top U.S. university.
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Jack Kent Cooke Scholarships for Community College Transfers