The Gates Scholarship

The Gates Foundation

Opening Soon

About the Scholarship

Opens: 7/15/2026

Closes: 9/15/2026

The Gates Scholarship recognizes high school seniors from low income households who have excelled academically and demonstrated motivation to succeed in college. Students who exhibit leadership abilities exhibited through participation in extracurricular activities and community service, are especially welcome to apply.

Award Amount Varies

Essay Required: No
Need-Based: Yes
Merit-Based: Yes
Website

Requirements

Minimum 3.30 GPA

Resident of the U.S.

High school senior

Seeking a bachelor's degree fulltime

Planning to attend school in the U.S.

U.S. citizen or permanent resident

Pell Granteligible

Demonstrate financial need Preference is given to candidates who have outstanding academic record in high school (in the top 10% of his/her graduating class), demonstrate leadership ability (e.g., as shown through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities), and have exceptional personal success skills (e.g., emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance, etc.).