National Award Program Recognizes Exceptionally Gifted 7th Grade Students
PASADENA, CA – 06/XX/2026 – The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA), a national nonprofit dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of the nation’s gifted and advanced learners, is celebrating 24 years of supporting gifted learners’ education through the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship (CDB). Founded in 2002, this national award program is the only merit-based, need-blind scholarship recognizing exceptional academic achievement in gifted seventh graders. This year, 54 students have been named Finalists:
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This year’s Finalists come from all corners of the United States including Alaska, Florida, New York, California and Hawaii. The Finalists’ areas of interest are just as varied spanning many academic disciplines and extracurricular activities. The Finalists will move on to the next round in the application process. Scholarship recipients will be announced in the fall.
Finalists who are not selected as Scholars will receive a $1,000 award to support their continued academic and intellectual development. In addition, all Finalists are invited to one of IEA’s Yunasa summer camps in 2027 at a special finalist-only rate where they will have the opportunity to grow personally, explore their interests, and connect with other gifted youth.
“The 2026 Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Finalists are among the most remarkable young minds we’ve seen in our 24-year history,” said Deborah Monroe, President, IEA. These students don’t just excel academically, they dive deeply into their passions and approach the world’s challenges with creativity and heart. IEA celebrates each and every one of them.”
Caroline D. Bradley Scholars receive a prestigious four-year scholarship that covers full high school tuition at an optimally matched school or through an individualized education plan. Scholars also benefit from ongoing, personalized counseling and educational advocacy provided by IEA.
Interested seventh grade students apply for the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship and complete a rigorous portfolio application process, which includes essays, middle school transcripts, letters of recommendation and a work sample. Eligible applicants must also achieve scores at the highest level on nationally normed standardized tests.
About IEA
The Institute for Educational Advancement (IEA) is dedicated to the intellectual, creative, and personal growth of our nation’s gifted and high-potential youth. Central to the mission of IEA is a commitment to the development of the whole child through engaging educational experiences that promote optimal challenge, mentorship, exploration of ideas, and recognition of personal potential. IEA seeks to connect gifted individuals through dynamic and engaging year-round programming. Additionally, IEA supports a diverse community that creates a sense of belonging and affirmation. For more information, visit www.educationaladvancement.org.
About the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program
IEA’s Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship Program is one of the few U.S. high school scholarship programs that is need-blind and awarded solely on the basis of merit to highly gifted seventh graders. Since its inception in 2002, the Caroline D. Bradley Scholarship has served over 450 students with academic and personal support, high school tuition and a lifelong network for mentorship and peer connections. The award is generously funded by the Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation.
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Contact
Kat Kirsch
Institute for Educational Advancement
(626) 403-8900 or kkirsch@educationaladvancement.org