Davidson Fellows Scholarship vs Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Comparing two elite interdisciplinary opportunities. Both are scholarships for high school students.

Davidson Fellows Scholarship Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Prestige Tier Tier 1 — Elite Tier 1 — Elite
Type Scholarship Scholarship
Organization Davidson Institute for Talent Development Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation
Acceptance Rate Extremely competitive; estimated 1-3% acceptance rate (specific data not publicly disclosed) Approximately 0.15% (150 winners ÷ estimated 100,000+ applicants). Phase 1 to Phase 2 advancement: ~1% (about 1,200 semifinalists from estimated 100,000-120,000 Phase 1 applicants). Phase 2 to Phase 3: ~20.8% (250 regional finalists from ~1,200 semifinalists). Phase 3 to Phase 4: 60% (150 winners from 250 regional finalists).
Applicants Hundreds of applicants annually across all categories (exact number not publicly disclosed) Estimated 100,000-120,000 annually based on ~1% semifinalist advancement rate yielding ~1,200 semifinalists. Exact figures not publicly disclosed by foundation.
Deadline 2026-09-30
Award $100,000
Cost to Apply Free Free
US Only Yes Yes
Grades Must be in high school or younger (any grade level acceptable as long as under 18) High school seniors only (must graduate during the application year)
College Impact Davidson Fellows is viewed with extremely high regard by college admissions officers at top universities. Winning or being named a finalist demonstrates exceptional achievement and intellectual capabi... Coca-Cola Scholars Program is highly respected by college admissions officers as a tier-1 prestigious scholarship. Being selected as a Coke Scholar significantly strengthens college applications becau...