The Gates Scholarship provides funding for the full cost of attendance (full ride) for 300 students who plan to attend accredited, not-for-profit, private or public universities. The first phase screening application is available July 15, 2026, and closes September 15, 2026. 
This scholarship is a “last dollar” award, which means the scholarship covers the cost of tuition, fees, room, board books, transportation, and personal expenses that is not covered by other financial aid. It will enable the student to graduate debt-free. This is a need-based scholarship tied to Pell Grant eligibility. Parents can use the federal Student Aid Estimator to see if they qualify for the Pell Grant.
To qualify, you must be:
- A high school senior
- Pell Grant Eligible
- U.S. Citizen, National, or Permanent Resident
- Minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
They are looking for students who possess the following:
- Top 10% of class
- Strong leadership skills demonstrated through involvement in community service and extracurricular activities
- Outstanding personal qualities (maturity, leadership, motivation, perseverance)
I have had the pleasure of assisting several students who have received this scholarship including Darion Wiggs who graduated from undergrad and graduate school debt-free from the Gies College of Business at the University of Illinois.
The program provides additional support services for students during and after college through networking and internship opportunities. If you meet the criteria, you should definitely apply. This is a life-changing program. Good luck!