The Gates Scholarship is a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, the scholarship is awarded to exceptional student leaders, with the intent of helping them realize their maximum potential. To apply, students must be a high school senior and pell-eligible. They must be a US citizen or permanent resident. Additionally, a student must plan to enroll in a four-year degree program, at a US accredited, not-for-profit, private or public college or university. An ideal candidate will have an outstanding academic record in high school (in the top 10 percent of their 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.). To remain eligible throughout their college tenure, students must submit a completed FAFSA prior to each academic year; a Renewal Form, with current transcripts showing that they are continuing to meet their institution's academic requirements; and Enrollment Verification forms dated the day after the start of each new term. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.