Gates Scholarship

TYPE: National

AMOUNT:  Full cost of attendance* that is not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution (as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for up to five years; 300 students selected – semifinalist phase is November – January, finalist interviews in March, selections announced in April

DEADLINE:  Tuesday, September 18, 2018

WEBSITE: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org/scholarship ONLINE APPLICATION: https://www.thegatesscholarship.org/sign-up (must create an account; store username and password in a secure location – Naviance journal is recommended)

DESCRIPTION:  The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, full scholarship for exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority, high school seniors. Awarded to 300 top student leaders each year with the intent of promoting their academic excellence through college graduation, and providing them the opportunity to reach their full potential.

In order to apply, students must be: (1) African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native*, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and/or Hispanic American, (2) Pell-eligible, (3) a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, (4) a high school senior with a (5) minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA. A Gates Scholar must enroll full-time in a 4-year degree program at an accredited, non-profit, private or public college/university. An ideal candidate will have an outstanding academic record in high school (in the top 10% of his/her graduating class), demonstrated leadership ability (e.g., as shown through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities), and exceptional personal success skills (e.g., emotional maturity, motivation, perseverance, etc.).