Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Awards College Scholarships to 70 High School Seniors

In its 25th anniversary year, the Foundation awards scholarships amid the rising number of college applicants and growing affordability concerns

LANSDOWNE, Va., April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation today announced that 70 high school seniors, ten more than last year's cohort of Scholars, have been awarded the Cooke College Scholarship. The Cooke College Scholarship, which is last-dollar funding after all institutional aid, provides Scholars with up to $55,000 per year to pursue a bachelor's degree at any accredited undergraduate institution. This award aims to help students who have demonstrated exceptional academic ability, leadership, and persistence avoid student debt.

"As we celebrate 25 years of work as a Foundation, we are proud to expand our commitment by supporting 70 students this year," said Seppy Basili, Executive Director of the Cooke Foundation. "This increase reflects not only the quality of applications we received, but also our response to the growing financial barriers facing talented students with financial need."

The expansion aligns with broader trends in college applicants. According to recent Common App data, first-year applicants rose four percent this admission cycle, and there was an eight percent increase among applicants from families below the median income level. While more students are pursuing higher education, financial barriers remain daunting.

In addition to substantial financial support, Cooke Scholars receive comprehensive academic coaching, graduate school and career advising, opportunities for internships and study abroad, and access to a vibrant network of fellow Scholars and Alumni. Scholars are also eligible to apply for graduate school funding after completing their undergraduate degrees.

The 2025 Cooke College Scholars come from 29 states plus the District of Columbia and American Samoa. The full list of 2025 Cooke College Scholars, including their high schools and states, can be found here.

About The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation is dedicated to advancing the education of exceptionally promising students who have financial need. Since 2000, the Foundation has awarded over $304 million in scholarships to more than 3,400 students from 8th grade through graduate school, along with comprehensive educational advising, career pathway counseling, and other support services. The Foundation has also provided $136 million in grants to organizations that serve such students. www.jkcf.org

SOURCE Jack Kent Cooke Foundation