Student Success Scholarship Program

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COCA students may apply for funds to participate in outside training opportunities to enhance training received at COCA.

Applicants must be enrolled in COCA classes or intensives in the semester they are applying plus a minimum of one previous semester. Students must be at least 14 years of age and funds can be used for college or apprentice expenses after graduation.

The Student Success Scholarship Program helps students to:

  • Identify opportunities they believe will bring about a dramatic change in their artistic practice
  • Create persuasive applications outlining the anticipated transformation

Applications will be accepted March 1–20, 2026. 

  • Program Description: Describe the program you hope to be partially/fully funded through this application. Include dates, location, anticipated outcomes, and full cost of the program.
  • Application Essay: Write an essay outlining the dramatic change(s) anticipated through participating in the program. Describe the anticipated change using one or more of the following categories: skills, pride, confidence, perspective and/or identity. The application essay should be typed and no longer than 500 words.
  • Application Essay Supporting Materials: Candidates can choose to include materials to enhance their application (e.g., photos, artwork, school projects, creative writing pieces, vision boards or video clips).
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Applicant Name(Required)
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The program description should be typed and can include marketing materials produced by the program.
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 5 MB.
The application essay should be typed and no longer than 500 words.
Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 5 MB.
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    Application FAQs

    When does the application period begin and end in 2026?

    Applications will be accepted between March 1–20, 2026.

    What is the amount of the scholarship?

    The amount of the Student Success Scholarship in 2026 is $2,500.

    What happens after submission of an application?

    Applications are judged by a panel of 3–4 COCA constituents using a transformation rubric. Current faculty and staff will not serve as voting members on the panel of judges.

    What happens when an application is chosen to be funded?

    Funds will be awarded to one applicant. Funds are paid directly to the program, not the applicant. Funded student will be publicly acknowledged at COCAcabana on April 24, 2026.