The Gates Scholarship
Scholarship · Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation · Online
Last-dollar scholarship covering the full cost of college for high-achieving, low-income minority students.
Our take
Full cost of attendance for 300 Pell-eligible minority seniors a year. Mid-September deadline; start the essays in summer.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
- Type
- Scholarship
- Format
- Online
- When
- During the school year
- Who can apply
- 12th grade
- How hard to get in
- Highly selective
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in September.
- Subjects
- Any subject
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is The Gates Scholarship worth it?
Full cost of attendance for 300 Pell-eligible minority seniors a year. Mid-September deadline; start the essays in summer. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it strong.
How much does The Gates Scholarship cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the The Gates Scholarship deadline?
Usually closes in September. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to The Gates Scholarship?
Students in 12th grade. It is highly selective.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
Free tools: GPA calculator · chances calculator · college acceptance rates · essay grader