1. Scholarship Name
The Gates Scholarship Program
2. Provider/Organization
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
3. Scholarship Type
Merit-based, need-based
4. Eligible Countries / Nationalities
Open to U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents only
5. Eligible Degrees/Programs
First-time, full-time undergraduate students enrolling in a four-year degree program at an accredited U.S. college or university
6. Fields of Study
All academic majors and disciplines are eligible
7. Scholarship Value/Benefits
- Covers full cost of attendance not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution
- Includes tuition, fees, room and board, books, and transportation
- Offers additional support such as academic resources, mentoring, and career counseling
8. Application Deadline
Typically opens in July and closes mid-September; exact dates vary annually (e.g., 15/09/YYYY)
9. Application Process
- Must complete an online application
- Includes multiple essay questions and recommendation letters
- Finalists complete interviews before final selection
10. Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- Student Aid Report (from FAFSA)
- Letters of recommendation
- Essay responses
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or residency
11. Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a high school senior at the time of application
- From at least one of the following ethnicities: African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American
- Must be Pell Grant-eligible
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
- Demonstrated leadership ability and strong academic record
12. Official Link
13. Additional Notes
- Designed to support high-achieving minority students with financial need
- Encourages recipients to engage in leadership development and community involvement
- Renewable for the duration of undergraduate study, contingent on satisfactory academic progress