The 2026 Gates Undergraduate Scholarship (US Based)

Scholarship Awarding University:
Several Universities

Type of degree:
Bachelor’s 

Scholarship Deadline:
Applications for this scholarship will end on the  

Scholarship Summary:
The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding, minority, US high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to 300 of these student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential.

Scholarship Applicant Criteria:
To apply, students must be:
A high school senior
Pell-eligible
A US citizen, national, or permanent resident
In good academic standing with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) 

Additionally, a student must plan to enroll full-time, in a four-year degree program, at a US accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university.

An ideal candidate will also have:
An outstanding academic record in high school (in the top 10% of his/her graduating class)
Demonstrated leadership ability (e.g., as shown through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities)
Exceptional personal success skills (e.g., emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance, etc.

Value of Scholarship:
Scholars will receive funding for the full cost of attendance* that is not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution, as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), or the methodology used by a Scholar’s college or university.

* Cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, room, board, books, and transportation, and may include other personal costs.

Scholarship Application Guide:
To apply;
•  Complete the before the stated deadline
•  Semi-finalists will be selected in December 2025 – January 2026 and will be invited for the finalist interview which will hold in March 2026
•  The Selection Committee will make their final decisions and recipients will be notified in April 2026
•  Scholarships will be formally awarded in July – September 2026

Scholarship Website:
Find further information on this scholarship opportunity at the Gates Scholarship Program Page.