The GE Reagan Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships available for high school seniors in the U.S. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, drive, and academic excellence. If you’re looking for financial support for your college education, this guide will provide detailed information about the GE Reagan Scholarship, the application process, its benefits, and how it compares to other major scholarships.
What is the GE Reagan Scholarship?
The GE Reagan Scholarship is awarded by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and GE to high school seniors who exhibit exceptional leadership, drive, integrity, and citizenship. Each year, up to 20 students receive the award, which provides significant financial assistance for college education. The scholarship is valued at up to $40,000 and is renewable for up to four years.
Eligibility Criteria for the GE Reagan Scholarship
To qualify for the GE Reagan Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a high school senior in the United States.
- Demonstrate leadership, integrity, and citizenship through academic achievements and extracurricular activities.
- Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate course of study toward a bachelor’s degree at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S.
Application Process
- Create an Account
First, visit the GE Reagan Scholarship website and create an account. This account will allow you to start and track your scholarship application. - Submit the Required Documents
Applicants need to submit:- A completed application form.
- High school transcripts.
- Two recommendation letters.
- A personal statement or essay showcasing leadership and community service efforts.
- Interview Process
Finalists for the GE Reagan Scholarship may be required to participate in an interview to assess their leadership qualities and academic aspirations. - Deadlines
Application deadlines usually fall in early January, so it’s essential to prepare in advance and submit all materials on time.
Top Benefits of the GE Reagan Scholarship
- Financial Support: The scholarship offers up to $40,000 per student, renewable for up to four years. This can cover a substantial portion of tuition fees, books, and other academic expenses.
- Leadership Recognition: Being recognized as a GE Reagan Scholar not only offers financial assistance but also adds prestige to your academic and professional resume.
- Networking Opportunities: Scholars are connected to a network of past recipients and can participate in leadership development opportunities through the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.
- No Specific College Requirements: Unlike some scholarships, the GE Reagan Scholarship allows recipients to choose any accredited U.S. college or university.
15 Real-World Scholarship Comparisons
Here are 15 scholarships similar to the GE Reagan Scholarship, offering financial aid and leadership recognition to students.
- Coca-Cola Scholars Program
Recognizes high school students who demonstrate leadership and academic excellence.- Amount: $20,000
- Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
- Elks Most Valuable Student Scholarship
Awarded to students who demonstrate leadership and financial need.- Amount: $1,000 to $12,500 per year.
- Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Scholarship
For high-achieving students with financial need.- Amount: Up to $40,000 per year.
- Dell Scholars Program
A need-based scholarship focused on underserved students.- Amount: $20,000.
- Horatio Alger Association Scholarship
For students who have faced significant adversity.- Amount: $25,000.
- Burger King Scholars Program
Recognizes students for their leadership and community service.- Amount: $1,000 to $50,000.
- Ron Brown Scholarship
Supports African American students who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.- Amount: $40,000.
- AXA Achievement Scholarship
For students who demonstrate ambition and drive.- Amount: $25,000.
- Gates Scholarship
Awarded to minority students from low-income backgrounds.- Amount: Full college costs.
- Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program
For student athletes who demonstrate leadership.
- Amount: $20,000.
- QuestBridge National College Match
Provides scholarships to students from low-income families.
- Amount: Full tuition and living expenses.
- Davidson Fellows Scholarship
For students who show exceptional academic talent.
- Amount: $50,000.
- Prudential Spirit of Community Awards
Recognizes students for their volunteer work.
- Amount: $1,000 and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.
- Microsoft Imagine Cup Global Competition
For students involved in technology and innovation.
- Amount: $100,000 for the grand prize winner.
- Siemens Foundation Scholarship
For students in STEM fields.
- Amount: $100,000.
Comparison Table: GE Reagan Scholarship vs Other Top Scholarships
| Scholarship | Amount | Eligibility | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE Reagan Scholarship | Up to $40,000 | U.S. high school seniors, 3.0+ GPA | Leadership and networking opportunities | Highly competitive |
| Coca-Cola Scholars Program | $20,000 | Leadership, academic excellence | Prestigious, strong alumni network | Requires high GPA |
| Jack Kent Cooke Scholarship | Up to $40,000 | Financial need, academic merit | Generous financial support | Extensive application process |
| Dell Scholars Program | $20,000 | Financial need, leadership | Tailored support for underserved students | Not open to all demographics |
| Gates Scholarship | Full costs | Minority, low-income students | Comprehensive financial support | Limited to underrepresented groups |
How to Apply for the GE Reagan Scholarship
- Visit the Official GE Reagan Scholarship Website
Begin the application process by visiting the official GE Reagan Scholarship website. - Create an Application Profile
Set up your account and provide basic details such as your name, GPA, and extracurricular activities. - Submit Required Documents
Gather your recommendation letters, personal statement, and other necessary documents to complete the application. - Track Your Application
You can monitor your application status and updates through your account.
FAQs About GE Reagan Scholarship
1. What is the deadline to apply for the GE Reagan Scholarship?
The deadline usually falls in early January each year. Be sure to check the official website for the exact date.
2. Is the GE Reagan Scholarship renewable?
Yes, the scholarship is renewable for up to four years, provided that recipients maintain their academic standing and continue demonstrating leadership.
3. Can I apply if I have less than a 3.0 GPA?
No, the minimum GPA requirement for this scholarship is 3.0.
4. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
Up to 20 students are awarded the GE Reagan Scholarship each year.
5. What types of extracurricular activities are valued in the application process?
Activities that demonstrate leadership, community service, and a commitment to personal development are highly valued.