Largest Scholarship in the Nation for Community College Students Now Accepting Applications

LANSDOWNE, Va., Oct. 7, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation invites applications for its Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, the largest private scholarship in the country for community college transfer students. As many as 85 students from a nationwide applicant pool will receive up to $40,000 per year for three years of study at any four-year accredited college or university of their choosing.

"Recent studies have shown that many of the nation's most gifted students begin their postsecondary education at a community college," said Harold O. Levy, executive director of the Foundation. "Our scholarships provide talented, low-income students who might otherwise lack the financial resources to do so with a chance to complete their college education, pursuing their goals and dreams."

In addition to financial support, the program helps students transition to four-year colleges and maximize their campus experiences with the support of counselors, a network of 1,800 extraordinary scholars and alumni, and opportunities students might not otherwise have, such as internships, studying abroad, and funding for graduate study.

To be eligible, applicants must be current students at accredited U.S. community colleges or two-year institutions with sophomore status or have graduated within the last five years. They must have a cumulative college GPA of 3.5 or above, plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to begin studies in the coming fall, and demonstrate unmet financial need.

Applications are reviewed by a distinguished panel of university faculty and admissions professionals. Selection criteria focus on exceptional academic ability and achievements, financial need, persistence, leadership, and a desire to help others.

Applications must be received by December 2, 2014. Final notification to accepted students will be made in April 2015. To learn more about the Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship, visit http://www.jkcf.org/scholarships/undergraduate-transfer-scholarships/

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation, the largest scholarship foundation in the country, is dedicated to advancing the education of exceptionally promising students who have financial need. Because we have demonstrated over the last 15 years that high-potential, low-income students will excel educationally when given the resources to develop their talents, the Foundation supports exceptional students from elementary school to graduate school through scholarships, grants and direct services. The Foundation also offers grants and supports research to further advance high-performing students with financial need. Founded in 2000 by the estate of Jack Kent Cooke, the Foundation has awarded $125 million in scholarships, and $79 million in grants to organizations that support its mission. www.jkcf.org

SOURCE Jack Kent Cooke Foundation