Scholarship Saturday: Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

There is a noticeable and widening achievement gap between high-achieving low-income students and high-achieving high-income students, and the mission of the Jack Kent Cookie foundation is to close that gap at every level of education. As such, JKCF provides grants and scholarships to students of all ages, ranging from middle school to graduate school. So, whether you're in high school or already in college, you're eligible for these scholarships.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation offers several scholarship opportunities:

The Young Scholars Program

Students are eligible for scholarships through JKCF beginning in 7th grade. So, tell your younger siblings about this opportunity! Through this opportunity, students will receive a personal academic and college counselor, funding for summer enrichment programs (much like Joyce Ivy), educational resources, and a plethora of other opportunities. (learn more)

College Scholarship Program

This opportunity is open to high school seniors who are worried that finances will get in the way of receiving the higher education they deserve. This scholarship provides up to $40,000/year in college tuition costs, easily covering most of the tuition at the nation's top universities, as well as a plethora of other resources to led a student on the path to success. (learn more)

Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship

For students currently attending community college, this opportunity grants up to $40,000/year if you want to transfer to a four-year university. Students must, of course demonstrate that they are extremely high achievers within their community college to receive this opportunity. (learn more)

Grant for Artistic Advancement

For those aspiring artists out there who are afraid they won't be able to fund their passion, this scholarship is a wonderful opportunity. By providing up to $250,000 in grants towards music classes, high quality instruments, and enrichment programs, this initiative focuses on developing musical and artistic talent in youth ages 8-18. (learn more)

As you can see, much like the Joyce Ivy Foundation, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation hopes to increase college accessibility for those who might not otherwise be able to receive all the opportunities this nation's education system has to offer. Through personal advising, generous grants and scholarships, and funding for summer enrichment programs, this scholarship is really something you shouldn't pass up if you qualify.

There's still time to apply. The application opens in January 2016, and consists of several components including recommendations, essays, transcript, and family income. Each scholarship has a separate application. These scholarships are available to students with family incomes of less than $95,000. Although selective, the Foundation really makes an effort to reach as many people as possible. In the past, there have been anywhere from 40-80 recipients, depending on the type of scholarship.

Even if you don't qualify (or don't receive) a scholarship from JKCF, their website has lots of valuable information regarding college access. I encourage you to check it out and spread the word, whether you end up applying or not.