The Kevin Sumlin Scholarship for Student Athletes has officially opened its 2026 application cycle, inviting eligible undergraduate student-athletes from accredited colleges and universities across the United States to apply. Founded by former college football coach Kevin Sumlin, the scholarship provides a one-time award of $1,500 to one deserving student-athlete who exemplifies discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and a commitment to educational success.
The scholarship recognizes that success in collegiate athletics extends beyond competition, highlighting the importance of balancing academic responsibilities with athletic participation. Applicants must be enrolled as undergraduate students at an accredited institution and be active student-athletes. The centerpiece of the selection process is a 500–700-word essay responding to the prompt: "As a student-athlete, what lessons have you learned from balancing academics and athletics, and how will these experiences help shape your future beyond sports?"
Kevin Sumlin, whose coaching career spans more than three decades at programs such as the University of Houston, Texas A&M University, and the University of Arizona, established the scholarship to continue his commitment to mentoring student-athletes. Throughout his career, Sumlin emphasized character development alongside athletic success, and this scholarship extends that philosophy by recognizing individuals whose experiences in collegiate athletics prepare them to make meaningful contributions beyond competition.
The scholarship is open to qualifying undergraduate student-athletes throughout the United States and is not limited to any specific institution, conference, sport, or geographic region. Every eligible applicant receives equal consideration based on the strength of the submitted essay and adherence to the requirements. Applications must be submitted via email to apply@kevinsumlinscholarship.com with the essay, full name, contact information, college or university, and sport.
The application deadline is June 15, 2026, and the scholarship recipient will be announced on July 15, 2026. Additional information, eligibility requirements, and application instructions are available through the official scholarship website at kevinsumlinscholarship.com.
By launching this national initiative, Kevin Sumlin continues a lifelong dedication to fostering leadership and educational achievement. The scholarship aims to support student-athletes who have learned resilience, accountability, and teamwork through their dual roles, preparing them for future professional and personal accomplishments.
