The Gates Scholarship is one of the most competitive and transformative undergraduate scholarships in the United States. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this program selects 300 of the nation’s most promising minority high school seniors from low-income backgrounds each year. It is more than just a full-ride scholarship—it’s a launchpad for future leaders, covering tuition, housing, books, and more, so students can focus on achieving their goals without financial barriers. If you are driven, academically strong, and ready to make an impact, this scholarship could be your gateway to a world-class education.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: USA
- Sponsor: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- Host University: Universities in USA
- Scholarship Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Country: USA
- Scholarship Benefits: Tuition fee + Transportation, Accommodation, etc.
Scholarship Benefit of 300 Gates Foundation Scholarship
- Fully funded undergraduate scholarship.
- Covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, transportation, and may include other personal expenses.
- It is a last-dollar scholarship, meaning it covers any remaining costs after other financial aid and family contributions are applied.
- 300 students are selected each year.
- Designed to support high-achieving, low-income minority students throughout their college education.
Eligibility Requirements for 300 Gates Foundation Scholarship
To qualify for the Gates Scholarship, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
- Be a high school senior.
- Belong to at least one of the following ethnic groups:
- African American
- American Indian/Alaska Native
- Asian American and Pacific Islander
- Hispanic/Latino
- Be Pell Grant-eligible (demonstrates financial need).
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident.
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 (on a 4.0 scale).
- Plan to enroll full-time in a four-year degree program at a U.S. college or university.
- Be in the top 10% of their graduating class.
- Demonstrate strong leadership ability through extracurriculars or community service.
- Exhibit exceptional personal qualities, such as emotional maturity, motivation, and perseverance.
Documents Required for 300 Gates Foundation Scholarship
While the full list may be detailed during the application process, generally required documents include:
- Academic transcripts
- FAFSA or documentation showing Pell Grant eligibility
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essays or statements
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- SAT/ACT scores (if applicable or required by the college)
- Resume listing extracurricular and leadership experiences
Scholarship Deadline
September 13, 2025
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How to Apply for the 300 Gates Foundation Scholarship
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements: U.S. citizen or permanent resident, high school senior, Pell Grant-eligible, strong academic record, and belong to an eligible minority group.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
Go to the official Gates Scholarship portal and register for an account. This will allow you to begin and track your application.
Step 3: Complete Phase 1 Application
Fill out basic details including:
- Personal and demographic info
- Academic records
- Extracurricular involvement
- Household financial data
Step 4: If Selected, Complete Phase 2
Semi-finalists are invited to submit:
- Essays/personal statements
- Letters of recommendation
- Updated academic transcripts
- Proof of Pell Grant eligibility
- SAT/ACT scores (optional depending on the school)
Step 5: Interviews (If Applicable)
Some applicants may be asked to participate in interviews with the selection committee.
Step 6: Final Selection and Notification
300 finalists will be chosen and notified. Winners receive comprehensive financial support throughout their undergraduate degree.
Join our Scholarship Community to get Latest Updates. Click Here
FAQs for the 300 Gates Foundation Scholarship
1. What is the Gates Scholarship?
A fully funded undergraduate scholarship for high-achieving, low-income minority students in the U.S., covering tuition, fees, and more.
2. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
300 scholarships are awarded annually.
3. Who funds the scholarship?
The scholarship is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
4. Who is eligible to apply?
High school seniors who are U.S. citizens, Pell Grant-eligible, from specific minority backgrounds, and have a GPA of at least 3.3.
5. What ethnic groups are eligible?
African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and Hispanic/Latino.
6. Is this scholarship only for certain majors?
No. The scholarship can be used for any undergraduate major at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S.
7. When is the application deadline?
September 13, 2025.
8. What does the scholarship cover?
It covers the full cost of attendance including tuition, fees, room, board, books, transportation, and possibly other personal expenses.
9. How do I apply?
Through the official Gates Scholarship website. The process includes two phases and may involve interviews.
10. Are SAT or ACT scores required?
They are not required by the scholarship itself but may be needed by the colleges you apply to.
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