The Gates Scholarships in USA 2027-28 [Fully Funded] | Free Study in USA

Overview

The Gates Scholarship fully funds tuition, accommodation, books and transportation for high school seniors from specific underrepresented ethnic groups (including American Indian/Alaska Native and Asian & Pacific Islander backgrounds) who are Pell-eligible. Applications close 15 September 2026.

About Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, fully funded undergraduate scholarship funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for outstanding, Pell-eligible minority high school seniors in the United States. It's distinct from the Gates Cambridge Scholarship (which funds graduate study at Cambridge) — this programme instead funds a full undergraduate degree at any US college or university the student is admitted to.

Coverage & Financial Benefits

• Tuition Fee will be covered
• Free Accommodation
• Boarding allowance
• Books allowance
• Transportation, and may include other personal costs.

Requirements & Eligibility

• A High School Senior
• From one or more of the following ethnic groups: American Indian/Alaskan Native, American and/or Native American, Asian and Pacific Islander.
• Pell-eligible
• A US citizen, national, or permanent resident
• At an excellent level with a minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a scale of 4.0 (or equivalent).
• A student must also plan to register for a four-year programme of studies for the complete term.

Required Documents

How to Apply

1. 1Confirm you meet the programme's specific eligibility criteria, including being a Pell-eligible, minority high school senior in the United States with U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.
2. 2Complete the online Gates Scholarship application, including required essays and letters of recommendation, ahead of its published annual deadline.
3. 3Apply for and gain admission to an accredited US college or university independently, since the Gates Scholarship funds your attendance rather than handling admissions itself.