How to apply for the Bill Gates Scholarship as an international student?

I'm interested in the Bill Gates Scholarship and want to know if international students can apply. If yes, what are the steps and requirements to submit a strong application?

The Bill Gates Scholarship (Previously known as the Gates Millennium Scholars Program), unfortunately, is not open to international students. This scholarship is specifically designed to support high-performing, underrepresented minority students who are U.S citizens, national, or permanent residents.

Criteria for the scholarship require students to be of African-American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American ethnicity. They must also demonstrate financial need (determined by the FAFSA or Student Aid Index), and be enrolling in a U.S. accredited college or university for the first time in the coming fall.

Even though this specific scholarship may be inaccessible for international students, many other scholarships and financial aid opportunities exist for international students studying in the U.S. For instance, you might want to explore scholarships from the Institute of International Education or other global education organizations. University-specific scholarships are also important to explore – you might find that many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students or students showing high academic achievement.

Before you choose a university, it's worth contacting their international student services or financial aid office to inquire about all possible options for international student scholarships. Understand their criteria, deadlines, and requirements well in advance to ensure you have the most comprehensive picture of your potential financial aid at that university. By doing this, you can better plan your approach in the application process.