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Frequently Asked Questions
If your question isn't answered here, email scholarship@weekendbio.com.
The scholarship
Is this a real scholarship?
Yes. One applicant will receive the full award of $1.39, paid in 139 U.S. pennies, after the 2026–27 application period closes.
Is there an application fee?
No. WeekendBio never charges a fee to apply and never asks applicants for bank, card, or payment information. If anyone asks you to pay to apply for this scholarship, the request did not come from us.
Who funds the scholarship?
The Joseph Coolidge Giving Association funds the full award. WeekendBio administers the application and selection process.
Who can apply?
Students currently enrolled in high school, college, or a university who are legal residents of the United States and at least 13 years old. Applicants under 18 need permission from a parent or guardian. The complete rules are in the Official Rules.
The essay
Why is there a ten-word minimum?
Ten words is the least the committee needs to evaluate an essay. The About page explains the reasoning in more detail.
Is there a maximum length?
No. You may write more than ten words. Length is not scored on its own, so a longer essay does not score higher simply for being longer.
How are words counted?
Words are separated by spaces. Hyphenated words, contractions, and numbers each count as one word. Punctuation and symbols standing on their own are not counted. See The Essay for the full rules and examples.
What happens if my essay is under ten words?
It is disqualified immediately and is not read. There are no exceptions, and a disqualified essay cannot be revised or resubmitted. The application form counts your words as you type and will not accept an essay under ten words, so you will know before you submit.
Can my essay have a title?
No. Titles are not permitted. The essay box should contain only your essay.
Can I use ChatGPT or another AI tool?
No. Essays written or substantially edited with an AI writing tool are disqualified. Spell check is fine.
Can someone else review my essay?
You may ask a teacher, parent, or friend to read it. The words themselves must be yours.
Applying
Can I apply more than once?
No. Each person may submit one application per cycle. If we receive more than one application from the same person, only the first is considered.
Can I change my essay after I submit?
No. Submitted applications are final. Count your words carefully before you submit.
What does "Class of" mean?
The year you expect to graduate from the school you currently attend. A high school junior in fall 2026 would select 2028.
How do I know my application was received?
A confirmation message appears on screen after you submit. If you did not see one, your application may not have gone through. Contact us before submitting again.
The award
Why is the award paid in pennies?
Because that is the award. The Accelerated Academic Award is 139 one-cent coins, and it is delivered as 139 one-cent coins.
Can I receive the award as a check or direct deposit?
No. The award is not converted to a check, direct deposit, gift card, or larger denomination, and no substitution is available.
When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be notified by email by January 29, 2027. With the winner's permission, their name and essay may be posted on this site afterward. Applicants who are not selected are not contacted individually.
How is the award delivered?
In person or by mail to an address in the United States, by February 26, 2027.
Is the award taxable?
The recipient is responsible for any taxes that may apply. WeekendBio does not provide tax advice.