The Dell Scholarship 2025/2026 is one of the most impactful and supportive financial aid programs in the United States, designed to empower ambitious students from low-income backgrounds who have overcome personal challenges to pursue higher education.
Sponsored by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, this scholarship goes beyond just financial assistance. It provides ongoing mentoring, academic support, and access to vital resources to help scholars succeed throughout college.
If you’re a motivated high school senior determined to achieve your college dreams despite financial or personal obstacles, the Dell Scholars Program could be your pathway to success.
About the Dell Scholars Program
The Dell Scholars Program was established in 2004 by the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation with the goal of improving college graduation rates among students from underserved communities.
Since its launch, the program has supported over 5,000 students and continues to help them achieve academic and professional success. Unlike traditional scholarships that focus only on grades or test scores, the Dell Scholarship recognizes resilience, determination, and motivation as key factors in student success.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, selected Dell Scholars will receive both financial and non-financial support — a unique feature that distinguishes this program from most other scholarships in the U.S.
Key Benefits of the Dell Scholarship 2025/2026
The Dell Scholarship 2025/2026 provides a comprehensive support system that includes financial aid, mentorship, and access to resources for academic success.
What Scholars Receive:
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$20,000 Scholarship Award (paid over the course of college studies)
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A New Laptop Computer for academic use
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Chegg Credits for textbook purchases and rentals
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Personalized Mentorship and Support throughout college
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Access to a Strong Community Network of Dell Scholars and alumni
This all-in-one support system ensures that recipients are not only financially prepared but also mentally and emotionally equipped to navigate college life successfully.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Dell Scholarship 2025/2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Education Level:
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Must be a graduating high school senior.
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College Readiness Program:
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Must participate in an approved college readiness program in grades 11 and 12 (such as AVID, Upward Bound, Gear Up, or similar).
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Financial Need:
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Must demonstrate financial need and be eligible to receive a Federal Pell Grant in the first year of college.
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Academic Requirements:
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Minimum GPA of 2.4 on a 4.0 scale.
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Enrollment:
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Must plan to enroll full-time in an accredited U.S. college or university in fall 2025.
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How to Apply for the Dell Scholarship 2025/2026
The application process for the Dell Scholars Program is simple and fully online. However, because it’s highly competitive, applicants are encouraged to start early.
Step-by-Step Application Process
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Create an Online Account
Visit the official Dell Scholars Program website and create an account using a valid email address. -
Complete the Application Form
Provide your personal, academic, and financial information accurately. -
Write Compelling Essays
Respond thoughtfully to essay questions about your life experiences, challenges, goals, and how you’ve shown determination in achieving success. -
Submit Required Documents
Upload your high school transcript, Student Aid Report (SAR) from FAFSA, and any other requested materials. -
Submit Before the Deadline
Applications typically close around December 1, 2025, for the 2025/2026 academic year.
Selection Process
The Dell Scholars Program uses a holistic review process that looks beyond grades. Students are selected based on:
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Perseverance in overcoming personal and academic challenges
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Commitment to education despite obstacles
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Motivation to achieve long-term goals
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Financial need and family circumstances
Finalists are announced in February 2026, and official Dell Scholars are confirmed by March 2026.
Important Dates for Dell Scholarship 2025/2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2025 |
| Semifinalists Announced | January 2026 |
| Finalists Selected | February 2026 |
| Dell Scholars Announced | March 2026 |
Tip: Always double-check all deadlines on the official website, as dates may vary slightly each year.
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Tips for a Strong Application
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Be Authentic: Share your true story and how you’ve shown resilience in your journey.
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Highlight Leadership: Show how you’ve made a difference in your school or community.
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Prepare Early: Don’t rush your essays — take time to craft compelling responses.
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Stay Organized: Keep your transcripts, FAFSA details, and documents ready in advance.
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Seek Feedback: Have a teacher or counselor review your essays before submission.
Why You Should Apply for the Dell Scholarship 2025/2026
The Dell Scholarship 2025/2026 is more than just financial aid — it’s a long-term investment in your academic and personal growth.
By becoming a Dell Scholar, you’ll gain access to mentorship, resources, and a network of like-minded students who understand the challenges you’ve faced. It’s an opportunity to graduate with confidence, without being weighed down by student debt or lack of support.
Conclusion
The Dell Scholarship 2025/2026 stands out as one of the most inclusive and impactful scholarship programs in the U.S. for students with financial need and personal determination.
If you’ve faced obstacles in your path to higher education but continue to strive for success, this scholarship can provide the support, guidance, and resources you need to reach your academic goals.
Start preparing now, complete your FAFSA early, and apply before December 1, 2025, to join a community that believes in your potential — the Dell Scholars.