Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

Deadline: December 9, 2026

Amount

Up to $55,000 per year, for 2–3 years

Location

National · Remote

Cost

Free

Class level

Community college, Sophomore

Minimum GPA

3.5

The largest private scholarship in the country for community college students transferring to a four-year college. It is last-dollar funding: it covers what remains after your college's aid.

Why it matters

Built specifically for high-achieving community college students with financial need. The official page lists no citizenship requirement, which makes it one of the rare top scholarships worth checking whatever your status.

Who can apply

U.S. citizensGreen-card holdersDACA / TPSUndocumented studentsInternational students (F-1 and other visas)Refugees and asylees

The JKCF FAQ says U.S. citizenship is not required. You must attend an accredited U.S. community college. If you already attended a four-year college (in the U.S. or abroad), you are generally not eligible.

Eligibility

Current student at an accredited U.S. community college or two-year institution with sophomore status by January 1, 2027 (or a graduate since spring 2022). Plan to enroll full-time in a bachelor's program in fall 2027. Cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher. Adjusted gross income of $95,000 or less (student and parents reviewed). Past enrollment at a four-year institution generally makes you ineligible. No age limit.

What you need

• Enrolled at a U.S. community college with sophomore status by January 1, 2027 (or graduated since spring 2022)
• Cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher
• Plan to enroll full-time in a bachelor's program in fall 2027
• Adjusted gross income of $95,000 or less
• No prior enrollment at a four-year institution

How to apply

Apply through the Common App for Transfer. Your community college may also need to confirm your records. Semifinalists are notified in February 2027, Scholars in April 2027.

Closes December 9, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. EST