Post_now Post_nowThe Gates Millennium Scholars (GMS) Program, established in 1999 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, was a significant initiative aimed at providing outstanding minority students with the opportunity to complete a college education. The program was administered by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and supported by organizations such as the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and the American Indian College Fund .
Program Objectives and Impact
The GMS Program aimed to promote academic excellence and provide financial assistance to high-achieving minority students with significant financial need. It sought to increase the representation of these groups in disciplines where they were underrepresented, such as computer science, education, engineering, and mathematics .
Program Achievements
- Scholarships Awarded: Over 20,000 students received scholarships through the GMS Program.
- Graduation Rates: The program boasted a six-year graduation rate of nearly 90%, significantly higher than the national average for low-income students .
- Graduate Education: Approximately 37.5% of GMS scholars pursued graduate education after earning their bachelor’s degrees.
Transition to The Gates Scholarship
After reaching its goal of funding 20,000 students, the GMS Program concluded. However, the commitment to supporting minority students continues through The Gates Scholarship, a highly selective, last-dollar scholarship for exceptional, Pell-eligible, minority high school seniors. This scholarship covers the full cost of attendance that is not already covered by other financial aid and the expected family contribution .
Eligibility Criteria for The Gates Scholarship
- High school senior
- From at least one of the following ethnicities: African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, and/or Hispanic American.
- Pell-eligible
- U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
- Minimum cumulative weighted GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
Application Process
Interested students can apply for The Gates Scholarship through its official website. The application process includes:
- Online application submission
- Submission of academic records and recommendation letters
- Essays and personal statements
- Interviews for finalists
Conclusion
The legacy of the Gates Millennium Scholars Program continues through The Gates Scholarship, maintaining the mission of supporting minority students in achieving their educational goals. By providing comprehensive financial support and resources, these initiatives aim to foster a diverse and talented pool of future leaders.
External Link
For more information, visit the Gates Millennium Scholars Program Wikipedia page.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Gates Millennium Scholars Program |
| Established | 1999 |
| Funded By | Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation |
| Administered By | United Negro College Fund (UNCF) |
| Total Scholars Funded | Over 20,000 |
| Graduation Rate | Nearly 90% six-year graduation rate |
| Transition to Graduate School | Approximately 37.5% of scholars pursued graduate education |
| Successor Program | The Gates Scholarship |
For more details on The Gates Scholarship, visit The Gates Scholarship Official Website.
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