What are the selection criteria?

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation reviews each application individually with assistance from a panel of education experts. Among the criteria used in the selection process are:

•Exceptional academic ability and achievement: Strong academic record, academic awards and honors, and substantive assessments by educators providing confidential recommendations. We consider:
-cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.5 or above
-participation in available advanced courses
-commitment to learning
-intellectual curiosity
•Unmet financial need: We will consider applicants with family income up to $95,000.
•Persistence: Determination and perseverance in the face of challenges, ability to set and remain focused on goals and to put in the effort needed to meet those goals in the face of obstacles.
•Leadership: Ability to organize and positively influence others in school and out-of-school areas (family, religious community, sports, arts, etc.).
•Service to Others: Purposeful and meaningful commitment to others which may be evidenced by participation in volunteer/community service activities.