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About the Coolidge Scholarship.
The Coolidge Scholarship Program is a highly competitive, full-ride scholarship for undergraduate studies, established in 2014 by the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation. The scholarship is named after Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, who was known for his leadership and dedication to public service.
The Coolidge Scholarship Program is open to high school juniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, an interest in public policy and leadership, and a strong work ethic. The scholarship covers all expenses for four years of undergraduate study, including tuition, room and board, books, and other expenses. In addition, Coolidge Scholars participate in a rigorous program of leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
The Coolidge Scholarship Program is highly selective, with only about 3% of applicants being selected as finalists. Finalists are chosen based on their academic achievements, leadership potential, and commitment to public service. The scholarship program aims to inspire the next generation of leaders who will contribute to the betterment of society.
Overall, the Coolidge Scholarship Program offers a unique opportunity for high-achieving students to pursue their academic and leadership goals without the financial burden of student loans.
Eligibility Criteria for Coolidge Scholarship Program
To be eligible for the Coolidge Scholarship Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a current high school junior (11th grade) during the academic year in which they apply.
- Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States of America.
- Intend to enroll full-time in an accredited, four-year undergraduate institution in the United States after high school graduation.
- Have a strong academic record, with a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- Have a demonstrated interest in public policy and leadership.
- Possess a record of participation in extracurricular activities, community service, and/or work experience.
- Display intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage in rigorous academic coursework.
Note that meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection as a Coolidge Scholar. The program is highly competitive, and applicants will be evaluated based on the strength of their application materials, including essays, transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation.
Application Process:
- Preliminary Application: To apply for the Coolidge Scholarship Program, students must first complete a preliminary application, which includes basic information about their academic achievements and extracurricular activities. This application is due on January 20th of the year of application.
- Semifinalist Application: After the preliminary application, a select group of applicants will be invited to complete the semifinalist application. This application requires more detailed information about the student's academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service. Semifinalist applications are due on February 20th.
- Coolidge Exam: Semifinalists who advance to the next round will be invited to take the Coolidge Exam, which tests their knowledge of Calvin Coolidge, his philosophy, and his era. The exam is multiple-choice and essay-based, and is administered online. The exam is due on March 10th.
- Finalist Application: After the Coolidge Exam, a select group of applicants will be invited to submit a finalist application. This application requires students to write several essays and submit letters of recommendation. Finalist applications are due on April 8th.
- Interview: Finalists will be invited to participate in an interview with members of the Coolidge Scholars Finalist Selection Committee. Interviews are typically held in late April or early May.
- Notification: Scholarship recipients will be notified of their selection in late May or early June.
- Finally, The application process for the Coolidge Scholarship Program is rigorous and highly competitive. Applicants must have a strong academic record, a deep understanding of Calvin Coolidge's philosophy, and a strong commitment to public service and civic engagement in order to be competitive
How To Apply for Coolidge Scholarship Application
To apply for the Coolidge Scholarship Program from the official website, follow these steps:
- Visit the Coolidge Scholarship website: Go to https://coolidgescholars.org/.
- Review the eligibility criteria: Before applying, make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements listed on the Coolidge Scholarship website.
- Register for the Coolidge Exam: Click on the "Apply" tab on the top menu and select "Coolidge Exam" from the dropdown menu. Register for the Coolidge Exam, which is an online test of your knowledge of Calvin Coolidge and his philosophy. The registration typically opens in early December and closes in mid-January.
- Take the Coolidge Exam: After registering, you will receive an email with instructions on how to take the Coolidge Exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.
- Submit the application: If you score well enough on the Coolidge Exam, you will be invited to submit a full application, which includes several essays and other materials. The application deadline is typically in late January or early February.
- Participate in the Semifinalist Interview: If you are selected as a semifinalist, you will be invited to participate in a virtual interview with the Coolidge Scholarship selection committee. The interviews are typically held in March.
- Finalist Notification: The winners of the Coolidge Scholarship are notified in late April.
Make sure to read the application instructions carefully and submit all required materials by the deadline. Good luck
Check: Davidson Fellows Scholarship application 2023
Coolidge Exam: What It Is and How to Prepare for It
- Format: The Coolidge Exam is divided into two parts. The first part consists of 30 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as Coolidge's life and political career, the history of the United States during the 1920s, and the principles of limited government and individual liberty. The second part consists of two essay questions that ask students to analyze primary source documents related to Coolidge's philosophy and apply that philosophy to current events.
- Study materials: To prepare for the Coolidge Exam, you should start by reading about Calvin Coolidge and his era. The Coolidge Foundation provides a reading list on its website that includes books and articles about Coolidge and the history of the 1920s. You should also review Coolidge's speeches and writings, which are available on the Foundation's website.
- Practice exams: The Coolidge Foundation provides sample questions on its website, as well as a practice exam that simulates the format and content of the actual Coolidge Exam. Taking practice exams can help you get a feel for the types of questions that will be asked and how to approach them.
- Time management: The Coolidge Exam is timed, with a total of two hours allowed for completion. It is important to manage your time carefully so that you have enough time to answer all of the questions and write thoughtful, well-organized essays.
- Analytical skills: The essay questions on the Coolidge Exam require students to analyze primary source documents and apply Coolidge's philosophy to current events. To prepare for these questions, you should practice analyzing primary source documents and identifying key themes and arguments. You should also read about current events and think about how Coolidge's principles could be applied to contemporary issues.
Tips for Writing a Strong Coolidge Scholarship Application.
- Read and follow the instructions carefully: Make sure you understand all the instructions and requirements for the application, and follow them carefully. This includes paying attention to word limits, formatting, and any specific prompts or questions.
- Showcase your academic achievements: The Coolidge Scholarship Program is highly competitive and values academic excellence. Highlight your achievements in academics, such as GPA, standardized test scores, and any advanced coursework or research projects.
- Highlight your extracurricular activities: The Coolidge Scholarship Program also values leadership and community involvement. Highlight your participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, clubs, volunteer work, and leadership positions.
- Show your passion for learning: The Coolidge Scholarship Program is looking for students who are intellectually curious and passionate about learning. Use your essays to showcase your intellectual interests, any academic challenges you've overcome, and any experiences that have shaped your academic goals.
- Write well-organized essays: Your essays should be well-organized and clearly written. Use a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Make sure your writing is concise and focused, and avoid using overly complex language or excessive jargon.
- Provide strong letters of recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic achievements, leadership, and character. Provide your recommenders with plenty of time to write their letters, and make sure to follow up with them to ensure they submit their letters on time.
- Edit and proofread carefully: Before submitting your application, make sure to carefully edit and proofread your essays and other application materials. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure your writing is clear and concise.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs of the Coolidge Scholarship.
What is the Coolidge Scholarship?
The Coolidge Scholarship is a highly competitive, full-ride scholarship for high school juniors who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership skills, and a deep interest in public policy and history.
Who is eligible to apply for the Coolidge Scholarship?
High school juniors who are citizens or legal residents of the United States are eligible to apply for the Coolidge Scholarship.
How do I apply for the Coolidge Scholarship?
To apply for the Coolidge Scholarship, you must complete an online application, which includes essays, transcripts, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Semifinalists are then invited to take the Coolidge Exam, and finalists are selected based on their exam scores, application materials, and interviews.
What is the Coolidge Exam?
The Coolidge Exam is a multiple-choice and essay-based test that is administered to semifinalists in the Coolidge Scholarship Program. It tests the student's knowledge of Calvin Coolidge, his philosophy, and his era.
What are the benefits of being a Coolidge Scholar?
Coolidge Scholars receive a full-ride scholarship to any accredited college or university in the United States, as well as access to mentoring, networking, and other educational opportunities.
How many Coolidge Scholars are selected each year?
Approximately 3% of applicants are selected as Coolidge Scholars each year, with a maximum of 30 Scholars selected.
When is the application deadline for the Coolidge Scholarship?
The application deadline for the Coolidge Scholarship is typically in late January or early February. Check the Coolidge Foundation website for the most up-to-date information.
Can I apply for the Coolidge Scholarship if I am homeschooled?
Yes, homeschooled students are eligible to apply for the Coolidge Scholarship. They must provide transcripts or other documentation of their academic achievements.
What is the Coolidge Foundation?
The Coolidge Foundation is a non-profit organization that promotes the values of limited government, individual liberty, and economic freedom through educational programs and scholarships, including the Coolidge Scholarship.