This is the Michael & Susan Dell Scholarships Program guide (also known as Dell Foundation Grant in United States) that gives up to $20,000 Scholarship + Full Support to Graduate College Debt-Free.
Do you dream of earning your bachelor’s degree without the heavy burden of financial stress? If yes, the Dell Scholars Program offers a life-changing opportunity for motivated high school seniors this year.
This prestigious initiative by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation supports students who have overcome significant obstacles and are determined to succeed in college. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic session open soon—don’t miss your chance to join a community of thousands of successful scholars.
About the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation
Established in 1999, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation works to transform the lives of children and families living in urban and rural poverty. Through education, health, and economic development initiatives, they impact millions annually—enabling access to high-quality education for over 7 million students, equipping 500,000+ classrooms with resources, and supporting pathways to university degrees and careers.
The Dell Scholars Program embodies their commitment to equity and opportunity, empowering the next generation of leaders.
Why Choose the Dell Scholars Program?
The program goes far beyond a one-time check. It’s a comprehensive college completion program designed to help you graduate and launch a rewarding career. Since its launch in 2004, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation has supported over 6,000 scholars, with more than 4,500 earning their degrees.
Each year, approximately 500 new Dell Scholars receive:
- $20,000 flexible scholarship usable for tuition, housing, fees, books, and other college costs (including future graduate studies, study abroad, or loan repayment).
- A high-quality Dell laptop with a 4-year warranty.
- Annual book credits through Chegg for textbooks, tutoring, and rentals.
- Personalized academic advising and goal-setting support.
- Career coaching, networking, and internship guidance.
- Wellness resources, including free teletherapy and discounted services for legal, financial, health, and personal needs.
- Access to emergency funds and the Scholars Resource Network for handling life challenges like stress, childcare, or financial hurdles.
This wonderful support helps students focus on learning and personal growth rather than worrying about basic needs.
Who Is Eligible for the Dell Scholars Program?
The program targets ambitious, low-income students who demonstrate grit and potential. To qualify, you must:
- Be a high school senior graduating from an accredited U.S. high school in the current academic year.
- Participate in a Dell Scholars-approved college readiness program during grades 11 and 12.
- Plan to enroll full-time in a bachelor’s degree program at an accredited four-year U.S. college or university immediately after high school.
- Have a minimum 2.4 GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
- Be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant in your first year of college (demonstrating financial need).
- Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise eligible to receive federal student aid.
Strong candidates show:
- A clear sense of purpose and achievable goals.
- A career-driven mindset.
- Perseverance through challenges.
- Self-motivation and determination.
Can Nigerians and African Children Apply for Dell Scholars Program?
No, Nigerians and most Africans (living outside the US) generally cannot apply for the Dell Scholars Program for their children.
Key Reasons:
- Must be a high school senior in the United States: The student must be graduating from an accredited U.S. high school this academic year.
- U.S. residency / citizenship requirement: Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or have immigration status that qualifies them for the Federal Pell Grant. Most international students (including those from Nigeria or other African countries on student visas) do not qualify for Pell Grants.
- College readiness program: The child must have participated in a Dell-approved college readiness program in grades 11 and 12 (these are typically U.S.-based programs).
- Full-time enrollment in a U.S. four-year college: Right after high school graduation in the U.S.
Possible Exceptions (which is Rare):
If your child was born in the U.S., holds U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (green card), attends a U.S. high school, and meets all other criteria (Pell Grant eligible, 2.4+ GPA, etc.), then yes, they can apply. Many Dell Scholars come from immigrant families who have overcome challenges.
Key Dates for Dell Scholars Program Cycle for each year
- Application Opens: December every year
- Application Deadline: February each year
- Finalists Announced: March 1, of the following year
- Finalist Materials Due: May 15, of the following year
- Dell Scholars Announced: June 1, of the next year
Mark your calendar and prepare your materials early!
How to Apply for Dell Scholars Program: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Visit the official site: dellscholars.org and complete the online application.
2. Submit required documents if selected as a finalist:
- Current high school transcript.
- FAFSA Submission Summary (from your completed FAFSA).
- Online recommendation from a referee (e.g., teacher or counselor).
3. Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee. Selected scholars receive notification and join a supportive network.
Remarks for Students: Highlight your personal story; how you’ve overcome obstacles, your future goals, and why this support matters to you. Authenticity stands out!
Better Alternatives for Nigerian / African Students:
If your child is in Nigeria or elsewhere in Africa, consider these instead:
- Other U.S. scholarships open to international students (e.g., through universities, Fulbright, or private foundations).
- African-based scholarship programs (e.g., Mastercard Foundation Scholars, AIMS, or country-specific government scholarships).
- University-specific aid for international undergraduates.
Recommendations for Interested Scholarship Applicants
We all know that College affordability remains a major challenge, but programs like Dell Scholars prove that with the right support, your dreams are achievable. If you’re a driven student facing financial issues but ready to put in the work, this could be your pathway to graduation and beyond.
You can start preparing today. Just do your due diligence by researching all the approved college readiness programs in your area, gather your documents, and stay updated via the official Dell Scholars website. You can also take a look at the Marshall Scholarships for fully funded UK and USA which may also be informative to you. Your future self will thank you.
For more details and to apply, visit: www.dellscholars.org. Contact them at apply@dellscholars.org to confirm your child’s specific situation. Good luck y’all.