Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award
Scholarship Sponsored by Jack Kent Cooke Foundation
Overview
The Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award is a one-time, non-renewable, need-based grant of up to $10,000 awarded in tandem with full participation in From the Top’s Learning and Media Lab Fellowship. Each year From the Top awards the grant to approximately 20 pre-collegiate musicians (ages 8–18) to help defray the often high costs of serious classical music study.
Note on applying
Submitting an application for the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award also serves as your application to the From the Top Learning and Media Lab Fellowship — you do not need to submit two separate applications.
Who may apply
Eligible applicants are classical instrumentalists, vocalists, and composers who:
- Are between 8 and 18 years old
- Are full-time students in elementary, middle, or high school
- Have not yet enrolled in college
What we look for
Applicants must show evidence of all the following:
- Strong musical commitment: Demonstrated musical ability and a readiness to take part fully in the Learning and Media Lab Fellowship.
- Financial need: This is a need-based award. Applicants should document that their family’s resources are insufficient to cover costs related to musical development (for example: instruments, lessons, summer programs, travel). Historically, about 90% of recipients have come from households with an annual Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) under $60,000. While exceptions are considered for factors such as regional cost of living, medical expenses, and additional dependents, applicants from households with an AGI above $100,000 are generally discouraged from applying.
- Educational engagement: A strong commitment to learning and creative development both in and out of school.
- Strength of character: Evidence of drive, initiative, maturity, leadership, and a commitment to contributing to one’s community.
Important deadlines
- Monday, September 1, 2025
- Saturday, November 15, 2025
High school seniors who will graduate in 2026 must submit their applications by November 15, 2025 to be considered. The Award may only be granted to students who are still enrolled in high school at the time of selection.