There are a few scholarships in existence that are more than scholarships. They equip recipients to succeed in college and after graduation with expert college advice as well as networking opportunities with other award alumni.
This combination makes these types of scholarships very prestigious and highly sought-after. Neither of these things should discourage students from applying. In fact, it should make them all the more motivated.
One such scholarship opportunity is the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation scholarships. These awards are open to both high school and college students.
Jack Kent Cooke Scholarships
Jack Kent Cooke was a Canadian-American businessman who made a fortune in broadcasting and professional sports. He owned multiple sports teams during his lifetime, including the now Washington Commanders, Los Angeles Lakers, and several more.
Though he quit his formal education to work full-time for his family during The Great Depression, he strongly believed that education was pivotal in helping individuals achieve success. At the time of his death, he instructed that the bulk of his wealth be used to start a foundation that would help students achieve their educational dreams.
Today, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation has awarded over $332 million scholarships to students and $144 million in grants to organizations and causes that prioritize education.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program
Deadline: 11/12/25
Award Amount: Up to $55,000
Available to: High School Seniors
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers high school seniors the chance to apply for the College Scholarship Program. Recipients can qualify for up to $55,000 per year to attend an accredited four-year college or university.
Each scholarship aims to cover a significant portion of the college costs for recipients. Award money can be used to pay for the following:
• Tuition
• Living expenses
• Books
• Required fees
In addition to the scholarship, recipients benefit from personal advising though the college selection and financial aid processes. They also receive advice on how to successfully transition to college as well as gain access to a network of professionals that spans 3,600 past recipients.
To qualify, students must demonstrate financial need, have at least a 3.5 GPA, and show persistence, leadership, and a desire to help others throughout their high school career.
Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship
While the application for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship is currently closed, it opens again on October 1, 2025. The deadline for the application typically falls in January.
This scholarship is open to students who are currently attending a two- or four-year program at a college and wish to transfer to another institution. Students must be enrolled in a program on January 1, 2026, with the intent to re-enroll elsewhere for the Fall 2026 semester.
Like the College Scholarship Program, recipients will receive up to $55,000 to cover tuition, living expenses, books, and fees. This scholarship is available to students for two or three years, depending on their graduation timeline once they transfer.
Recipients will also have access to expert advice on college life and financial aid, with an emphasis on maximizing the transfer experience.