How to apply for the Coke Scholarship for college students?

I'm interested in applying for the Coke Scholarship for college students. Does anyone know what criteria are used and how competitive it is? Also, what is the application process like? I want to make sure I'm prepared.

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is quite competitive and seeks high-achieving high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, service, and action to impact others. The scholarship is typically open to U.S. graduating high school seniors, so if you're already a college student, unfortunately, you would no longer be eligible.

But to give you an idea, around 150 scholarships of $20,000 each are awarded annually and applications usually become available in August. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA at the end of their junior year of high school and must have plans to pursue a degree at an accredited post-secondary institution.

The application process involves several stages. In the first phase, you would complete an online application with sections dedicated to school and community activities, honors and awards, and employment. From these applicants, around 2,000 are selected to move on to the next round where they provide additional information. This is where you would discuss your leadership activities, honors, awards in-depth, and your philosophy.

After semi-finalists are selected, they need to submit additional supporting documentation like transcripts, essays, and recommendations to be further considered. From there, 250 are then chosen as regional finalists and are interviewed by regional committees.

The final step is the selection of the 150 Coca-Cola Scholars. In late March, these Scholars are brought to Atlanta for Scholars Weekend for networking, workshops, and the final awards ceremony.

It's a pretty rigorous process but can be worth the effort for such a substantial scholarship. Good luck!