The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is inviting applications for the Gates Scholarship 2027, a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. The scholarship offers a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue undergraduate degree programs in the United States, helping them realize their potential and contribute to the nation’s development.
Application Deadline:
- 15 September 2026
Tell Me About the Scholarship Program:
The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, last‑dollar scholarship designed to support outstanding high school seniors from low‑income households in the United States. Each year, it funds exceptional student leaders to help them achieve their maximum potential by covering the full cost of attendance at accredited U.S. colleges and universities.
Which Fields are Eligible?
The scholarship is open to all fields of study at accredited U.S. institutions, including:
- STEM
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Business
- Arts
Type:
- Undergraduate Scholarship | U.S. Accredited Colleges & Universities
Who can apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a high school senior.
- Be Pell‑eligible.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Have a minimum weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale.
- Plan to enroll full‑time in a four‑year degree program at a U.S. accredited, not‑for‑profit college or university.
How Are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence (top 10% of graduating class).
- Demonstrated leadership ability (community service, extracurriculars, etc.).
- Personal success skills (emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance).
- Performance in semifinalist and finalist phases, including interviews.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- United States (citizens and permanent residents only).
Where is the scholarship taken?
- Any accredited, not‑for‑profit U.S. college or university.
How Many Scholarships?
- Approximately 300 scholarships awarded annually.
What is the benefit of the scholarship program?
- Covers the full cost of attendance not already met by other financial aid or the Student Aid Index (FAFSA).
- Includes tuition, fees, books, housing, food, and personal costs.
- Provides mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
- For the full duration of the undergraduate degree (4 years).
Required Documents:
- FAFSA application.
- Academic transcripts.
- Personal essays/statements.
- Letters of recommendation.
How to Apply:
- Submit your application online via the Gates Scholarship portal.
- Application opens 15 July 2026 and closes 15 September 2026.
- Semifinalist phase: December 2026 – January 2027.
- Finalist interviews: March 2027.
- Selection announced: April 2027.
- Awards distributed: July – September 2027.
Note: You must also apply separately to your chosen US college or university.
