Gateway Scholars

Gateway Scholars provides personalized mentorship from high school through college graduation. Because getting in is just the beginning—we're here to make sure you finish.

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College student smiling at the camera, standing in front of a brick wall.

Students who make it to college are more likely to graduate when they have the right support.

Navigating course registration, financial aid renewals, housing issues, academic setbacks, and personal challenges can derail even the most motivated students—especially those who are first-generation or lack family support networks. Gateway Scholars exists to change that.

The Opportunity

Gateway Scholars pairs you with a College Advancement Mentor (CAM)—a specially trained professional dedicated to your success. This isn't generic advising. This is a personal relationship with someone who knows your goals, understands your challenges, and is invested in seeing you graduate.

The Opportunity

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How it works

Year 1

High School to College

Meet your CAM during your senior year of high school. Together you'll prepare for college, understand your financial aid package, and create a plan for your first year.

Years 2-5

College Persistance & Completion

Regular check-ins (virtual and in-person) to help you navigate course selection, financial aid renewals, academic challenges, and career planning.

Year 6+

Launch Into Your Career

Even after graduation, your CAM remains a resource as you transition into your career, apply to graduate school, or navigate early professional challenges.

What Makes Gateway Scholars Different

It's Personal

This isn't a program that assigns you a different advisor every semester. Your CAM is YOUR person—someone who learns your story, celebrates your wins, and helps you navigate setbacks.

It's Proactive

We don't wait for you to fail a class or lose financial aid. Your CAM checks in regularly, anticipates challenges, and helps you get ahead of problems before they become crises.

It's Comprehensive

Academic support is just the beginning. We help with everything from understanding your financial aid package to finding emergency housing to preparing for job interviews.

It's Proven

Gateway Scholars was developed in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and has helped hundreds of students complete degrees they might not have finished on their own.

Student and College Admission Mentor standing side by side, smiling at the camera.

Become a Gateway Scholar

Eligibility:

Current high school senior
Demonstrates financial need
Committed to completing a college degree
Open to all college-bound students, especially first-generation students

Application Process:

Applications accepted on a rolling basis. Apply during your senior year of high school.

Program Cost:

Gateway Scholars is provided at no cost to students, thanks to generous donor support.

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You have Questions

We have the Answers

Have more questions? Don't hesitate to email us.