The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority, high school seniors. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to 300 top student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential.
Award amount
Varies
Number of awards
300 awards available
Frequency
Annually
Deadline
September 15, 2026
Time to apply
60+ min
Essay
May be required — check provider
Must be a high school senior
Must be Pell-eligible
Must be a minority student
Must demonstrate leadership ability
Confirm eligibility
Review the scholarship eligibility information on this page and on the provider’s official instructions to confirm you qualify before you invest time in an application.
Gather required materials
Collect transcripts, test scores, essays, letters of recommendation, portfolios, or any other items the program lists as required.
Submit through the official program
Complete the application using the provider’s published process—often an online form or portal—and submit before the stated deadline. Keep a copy of your confirmation when available.
Important
Deadlines are set by the scholarship provider. Always confirm dates and instructions on the official site. TuitionCovered does not process applications for external scholarships.
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