The Gates Scholarship
The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, last-dollar award covering the full cost of attendance — tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation — for outstanding minority high school seniors from low-income families.
Eligibility at a glance
- High school senior
- Member of one of these ethnic minority groups: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American
- Pell-eligible (high financial need)
- Minimum 3.3 GPA
- Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited US college
What 'last-dollar' means
The scholarship covers any costs not already met by other financial aid (grants, scholarships, expected family contribution). The result is the same: full attendance covered.
Application stages
Phase 1: short application (opens July, closes mid-September). Phase 2: full application for semifinalists. Phase 3: finalist interviews. Scholars announced in spring.
What reviewers look for
Academic excellence (high GPA + rigorous coursework), leadership, community service, and a personal story articulated through your essays.
Renewal
Renewable for up to 4 years (or 5 for designated programs) as long as you maintain satisfactory academic progress.
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