Dell Scholars Program vs Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Comparing two highly competitive interdisciplinary opportunities. Both are scholarships for high school students.
| Dell Scholars Program | Coca-Cola Scholars Program | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 2 — Highly Competitive | Tier 1 — Elite |
| Type | Scholarship | Scholarship |
| Organization | Michael & Susan Dell Foundation | Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 10-15% estimated (500 scholars selected annually from a likely 3,000-5,000+ applicants, though exact applicant numbers not publicly released) | 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 | Not officially published, but highly competitive given 500 winners and national scope; likely 3,000-5,000+ applications annually | Estimated 100,000-120,000 annually based on ~1% semifinalist advancement rate yielding ~1,200 semifinalists. Exact figures not publicly disclosed by foundation. |
| Deadline | Rolling | 2026-09-30 |
| Award | $20,000 | — |
| Cost to Apply | Free | Free |
| US Only | Yes | Yes |
| Grades | High school seniors only | High school seniors only (must graduate during the application year) |
| College Impact | The Dell Scholars Program is highly regarded in college admissions and demonstrates significant commitment to college completion. Colleges and universities view Dell Scholars selection as meaningful v... | 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... |