The Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) program is funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The program was established in 1999 to provide outstanding African American, American Indian/Alaska Natives, Asian Pacific Islander Americans, and Hispanic American students with an opportunity to complete an undergraduate college education, in all discipline areas and a graduate education for those students pursuing studies in mathematics, science, engineering, education, or library science. The GMS Program selects 1,000 talented students each year to receive a good-through-graduation scholarship to use at any college or university of their choice. The program provides Gates Millennium Scholars with personal and professional development through their leadership programs, along with academic support throughout their college career.
You are eligible to be considered for a GMS scholarship if you meet all of the criteria. You must be African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American. You must be a citizen, national or legal permanent resident of the United States. You need to have a cumulative high school GPA of 3.3 or have earned a GED and will enroll for the first time at a U.S. located, accredited college or university as a full-time, degree-seeking, first-year student. You also need to have demonstrated leadership abilities through participation in community service, extracurricular or other activities. Finally, you must meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria. This is a needs and academic based scholarship.
The application process for the GMS scholarship has three parts. First, a Student Application is completed and submitted by you. You will be required to enter information like your name, contact information, Social Security number, date of birth, race, intended college major, and the university you plan to attend, household income, cumulative grade point average, attendance history, class rank and accomplishments. Second, a Nominator Form must be completed and submitted by an educator- Principal, teacher, guidance counselor, or higher education representative. Be sure to provide the nominator with your registration identification number. It’s needed to link their nomination to your scholarship application. Third, a Recommender Form must be completed and submitted by any adult who is familiar with your community service and leadership activities, such as a supervisor at work or a community leader. If the person who serves as a Nominator is also familiar with your non-academic activities, they may serve as a Recommender as well.
If you are selected as a Gates Scholars, you will receive funds in an amount to be determined by GMS based on financial need. The award will be based on the cost of your tuition, fees, books, and living expenses for the academic year as well as the availability of grants and other scholarships reported on the submitted financial aid award letter. The scholarship may be renewed annually based on satisfactory academic progress, full-time status, and the timely submission of required documents. This is a fantastic opportunity for students who may have not had the opportunity to otherwise attend college because of financial constraints.
For more information or an application visit: http://www.gmsp.org/
