The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is inviting applications for the Gates Scholarship 2026, a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. The scholarship offers a fully-funded opportunity for international students to pursue undergraduate degree programs in the United States, helping them realize their potential and contribute to the nation’s development.
When is the Application Deadline:
September 15, 2025
🎓 Tell Me About the Scholarship:
The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, full-cost undergraduate scholarship funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It is awarded annually to outstanding, minority high school seniors from low-income households in the United States, helping them pursue their academic goals at any accredited US university or college.
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📚 Which Fields are Eligible?
All academic fields are offered in four-year undergraduate degree programs at accredited, not-for-profit colleges and universities in the USA.
📂 Type:
Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarship
👤 Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a high school senior (graduating in 2026)
- Be Pell Grant-eligible
- Be a US citizen, national, or permanent resident
- Belong to one or more of the following ethnicities:
- African-American
- American Indian/Alaska Native* (with tribal enrollment proof)
- Asian & Pacific Islander American
- Hispanic American
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
- Plan to enroll full-time in a four-year degree program at a US-accredited, not-for-profit public or private college or university
✅ How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence (top 10% of graduating class)
- Demonstrated leadership ability through extracurriculars or community service
- Strong personal success skills, including emotional maturity, motivation, and perseverance
- Completion of required application phases:
- Semifinalist Phase: Dec 2025 – Jan 2026
- Finalist Interviews: March 2026
- Award Selection: April 2026
🌍 Which Countries Are Eligible?
Only students residing in the United States who meet the citizenship and eligibility criteria listed above.
📍 Where Will the Scholarship Be Taken?
At any accredited, not-for-profit college or university in the United States of America.
🔢 How Many Scholarships Are Available?
300 scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding high school seniors.
💰 What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
Covers the full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid or the expected family contribution. This includes:
- Tuition
- Fees
- Books
- Room and board
- Transportation
- Personal expenses
⏳ How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
Four (4) years, covering the full duration of the recipient’s undergraduate program.
📝 How to Apply:
- Visit the Gates Scholarship Portal: www.thegatesscholarship.org
- Create an account or log in
- Complete and submit the online application
- Upload all required documents and personal information
Note: You must also apply separately to your chosen US college or university.
