Jack Kent Cooke Young Scholars Program — 7th Grade High-Achievers with Financial Need

About This Opportunity

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Young Scholars Program is a multi-year support program — distinct from the JKC College Scholarship (which is for high school seniors and is separately listed in this database) — designed for high-achieving 7th graders from families with significant financial need. Selected Young Scholars receive up to $2,500 per year in educational funding during middle and high school, plus access to JKC's comprehensive college preparation support services: college counseling, test preparation resources, summer enrichment funding, extracurricular support, and mentoring. The program runs from 8th grade through 12th grade. Young Scholars also receive priority consideration for the JKC College Scholarship (up to $55,000/year for college). Approximately 60–80 Young Scholars are selected nationally per year. This is extremely competitive — but for a 7th grader in Omaha or Council Bluffs who has strong grades and significant financial need, applying is one of the most valuable things a parent or student can do. The application is free and opens in the fall. This is for students who are currently in 7th grade — not high school seniors.

Who Can Apply

Must be a current 7th grader (or in the fall semester of 7th grade at time of application). Demonstrated high academic achievement (typically top of class, strong grades). Significant financial need (family income typically under $95,000, adjusted for family size). U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Application is FREE. Opens in fall of 7th grade year, deadline typically in February. Apply at jkcf.org/our-scholarships/young-scholars-program. NOTE: This is the MIDDLE SCHOOL program (grades 7-12). The JKC College Scholarship (for HS seniors) is separately listed in this database.