Are you a high-achieving, minority high school senior with significant financial need, ready to make a difference in the world? The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is thrilled to announce that applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are now open! This “last dollar” scholarship aims to empower exceptional student leaders to reach their full potential by providing funding for the full cost of attendance not covered by other financial aid.
What The Gates Scholarship Offers?
Beyond just opening the doors to higher education, The Gates Scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly thrive! This prestigious “last dollar” scholarship ensures that chosen scholars can pursue their dreams without the burden of financial stress, covering the entire cost of attendance at any U.S. accredited, non-profit college or university.
Imagine a future where tuition, fees, room and board, books, supplies, transportation, and even other personal costs are all taken care of – allowing you to focus purely on your studies and personal growth. But The Gates Scholarship is so much more than just a financial lifeline. It’s a comprehensive support system designed to cultivate future leaders, providing invaluable resources like personalized mentoring, expert academic guidance, exciting career and internship opportunities, and essential financial literacy training.
It’s an investment not just in your education, but in your entire journey towards making a significant impact on the world.
Are You Eligible? Check the Criteria!
To be considered for The Gates Scholarship, you must meet the following strict eligibility criteria:
- Be a high school senior.
- Be Pell-eligible (demonstrate significant financial need).
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident.
- Maintain good academic standing with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- Identify with at least one of the following ethnicities: African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and/or Hispanic American. (For American Indian/Alaska Native applicants, proof of tribal enrollment is required.)
- Plan to enroll full-time in a four-year degree program at a U.S. accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic record (typically in the top 10% of your graduating class).
- Exhibit demonstrated leadership ability through participation in community service, extracurricular activities, or other impactful endeavors.
- Possess exceptional personal success skills, such as emotional maturity, motivation, and perseverance.
Application Dates & How to Apply
The application window is open, so don’t delay!
- Application Open Date: July 15, 2025
- Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
The entire application process is online. To apply, simply:
- Visit The Gates Scholarship website: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org/scholarship
- Create your myTGS Profile, which will serve as your portal for all scholarship-related activities.
- Complete the application form thoroughly.
- Upload all required documents, including your most recent transcript(s), Student Aid Report (SAR) from your FAFSA, financial aid award letter, letter of admission to a four-year bachelor’s degree program, a headshot photo, and a resume.
- Ensure your recommender and nominator (an educator familiar with your academic background and a community member aware of your leadership activities) submit their forms by the deadline.
Remember: The selection process for The Gates Scholarship is highly competitive. Less than 1% of applicants are chosen, so make sure your application truly reflects your academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to making a positive impact.
