Gates Scholarship
Offered by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
The Gates Scholarship selects 300 outstanding minority students each year and provides a full scholarship to cover the cost of attendance at the college of their choice.
Minority high school seniors with 3.3+ GPA and Pell Grant eligibility
About the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
The Gates Scholarship is a Full Cost of Attendance, renewable full ride scholarship offered by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to support Black students investing in higher education. It is open to Black students at colleges and universities across the United States.
Minority high school seniors with 3.3+ GPA and Pell Grant eligibility Because this award is renewable, recipients who maintain eligibility can receive Full Cost of Attendance each year rather than a one-time payment — making it among the higher long-term value scholarships in this category.
The Gates Scholarship application deadline is September 15. Applicants should submit through the official portal at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and prepare documentation including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any required personal statements well in advance of the deadline. This scholarship is listed on BlackCollegeScholarships.com as part of a directory of 110+ awards for Black students — all free to browse and apply to directly.
Gates Scholarship — Common Questions
What is the Gates Scholarship?
The Gates Scholarship is a Full Cost of Attendance scholarship offered by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, renewable for continued academic achievement. It is a full ride scholarship available to Black students across the United States. The application deadline is September 15.
Who is eligible for the Gates Scholarship?
Minority high school seniors with 3.3+ GPA and Pell Grant eligibility Review all requirements on the official application page before applying.
How do I apply for the Gates Scholarship?
To apply for the Gates Scholarship, click the "Apply Now" button on this page — you will be directed to the official application at Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The deadline is September 15. Prepare all required documents in advance, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any required essays. BlackCollegeScholarships.com does not process applications and links directly to the sponsoring organization.