The Gates Scholarship
Verified August 1, 2026
- Amount
- Varies
- Deadline
- September 15, 2026 33 days left
- Essay
- Required
- Min GPA
- 3.0
The Gates Scholarship is a last-dollar award that covers the full cost of attendance not already covered by other financial aid. It is awarded to 300 outstanding, high-need students from minority backgrounds each year.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be high school seniors from at least one of the following backgrounds: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian and Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American. Students must be Pell-eligible, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and plan to enroll full-time in a four-year degree program.
How to Apply
Apply directly through Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation's official application — an essay is part of the application. Review the eligibility requirements above first, and give yourself time before the September 15, 2026 deadline.
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