College is expensive and the price tag can be intimidating before you’ve even packed your first box for move-in day. But there’s good news.
Scholarships are out there and many go unclaimed every year because students don’t apply. If you’re a high school senior, this fall is your chance to get ahead of the curve and start building the financial support you’ll need for your future.
These aren’t small perks like free books or a one-time $500 check, these programs offer major awards that can change the trajectory of your college journey. Some cover tuition in full, while others fill the “gap” left after financial aid. Most also reward more than just strong grades. They want leaders, problem solvers and students who give back to their communities. In other words, people like you.
Below are five scholarships that every ambitious high school senior should have on their radar. Each one offers real money, real opportunity and the kind of support that makes college more affordable and less stressful.
The Gates Scholarship
- Award: Covers full unmet need (tuition, housing, books, transportation).
- Eligibility: Minority high school seniors, GPA 3.3+, low-income household. Must be U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident.
- Deadline: Sept. 15, 2025.
John J. Nelson Sr. Legacy Scholarship
- Award: Up to $10,000 each for two recipients.
- Eligibility: African American students enrolled in a U.S. college/university, with a focus on increasing diversity in design and architecture.
- Deadline: Oct. 3, 2025.
Ron Brown Scholar Program
- Award: $40,000 ($10,000 per year for four years).
- Eligibility: African American high school seniors who excel academically, lead, and serve their community.
- Deadlines: TBA
NAACP Inspire Initiatives Scholarships
- Award: Varies by scholarship (need-based and merit awards across multiple donors).
- Eligibility: Applicants must be NAACP members, have a GPA of 3.0+ and be graduating high school seniors, undergrads, or grad students. Fields of study vary depending on the scholarship.
- Deadline: Deadlines differ by award; check NAACP’s scholarship portal for details.
This program pools funds from donors to open doors for Black students pursuing higher education at all levels.
Black at Microsoft Scholarship
- Award: 5 renewable $5,000 scholarships (up to 4 years) + 50 one-time $2,500 awards.
- Eligibility: High school seniors of African descent pursuing Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or Business majors. Must have a 3.0+ GPA and financial need.
Deadline: TBA
