The Taco Bell Scholarship 2025/2026, officially known as the Live Más Scholarship, is one of the most inspiring programs in the U.S. designed to help young dreamers turn their passions into real-world impact. Sponsored by the Taco Bell Foundation, this scholarship empowers students who have big ideas and a hunger to make a difference — not just those with perfect GPAs.
Unlike many scholarships that focus solely on grades or test scores, the Taco Bell Scholarship/Live Más Scholarship rewards creativity, innovation, and community impact. If you’re a student with a story to tell and a dream to pursue, this program offers you the opportunity to receive financial support while sharing your vision with the world.
What is the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship?
The Taco Bell Foundation created the Live Más Scholarship to support the next generation of leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators. It’s available to students ranging from high school seniors to postsecondary and vocational learners.
The scholarship’s key distinction lies in its video-based application. Instead of writing an essay, applicants submit a short video (2 minutes or less) explaining what they’re passionate about and how they plan to make a positive impact on their community or career path.
Since its inception, Taco Bell has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships, helping thousands of students fund their education.
Award Amounts
The Taco Bell Scholarship 2025/2026 offers three main categories of awards:
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New Applicant Awards: For first-time applicants, typically between $5,000 and $25,000.
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Renewal Awards: For previous recipients continuing their education.
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Employees Program: Available exclusively for Taco Bell restaurant employees, offering similar award ranges.
In 2024, the Taco Bell Foundation awarded over $10 million in scholarships nationwide — and even more funds are expected for 2025/2026.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Taco Bell Scholarship/Live Más Scholarship 2025/2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
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Be at least 16 years old and no older than 26
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Be currently enrolled in or planning to enroll in an accredited postsecondary institution (college, university, or vocational program)
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Submit a 2-minute video describing your passion and how you plan to pursue it
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Not be required to be a Taco Bell employee (except for the employee-only category)
Unlike most scholarships, there is no minimum GPA requirement — making it one of the most inclusive opportunities available to creative and goal-driven students.
How to Apply
The Taco Bell Scholarship/Live Más Scholarship application process is simple but unique. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Brainstorm Your Passion
Think deeply about what motivates you — your dream, goal, or idea that drives you forward. The scholarship committee values authenticity and creativity.
Step 2: Create a Short Video (Up to 2 Minutes)
You don’t need professional equipment. Use your phone or camera to record a video explaining:
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What you’re passionate about
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How you plan to make a positive impact in your community or field
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How further education will help you achieve that dream
Step 3: Upload and Submit
Go to the official Taco Bell Foundation’s Live Más Scholarship portal, fill in your details, and upload your video before the deadline.
Step 4: Wait for Notification
Selected winners will be announced in mid-2025 and contacted directly via email.
Important Dates for 2025/2026
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | November 2025 |
| Deadline | January 10, 2026 |
| Finalists Announced | April 2026 |
| Funds Awarded | Summer 2026 |
Applicants are encouraged to start early to ensure enough time to plan, record, and perfect their video submission.
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Why You Should Apply
The Taco Bell Scholarship stands out for its inclusive, passion-driven approach. Here’s why students across the country apply every year:
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No essays or GPAs required — just your story and ambition.
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Creative freedom to express who you are in your own voice.
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Substantial financial support for college or trade school.
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Community recognition through the Taco Bell Foundation’s national network.
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Renewable awards for continuing education.
This scholarship not only funds education but also celebrates individuality — it’s about what moves you, not what’s on your transcript.
Tips for a Winning Application Video
Want to stand out from thousands of applicants? Here are key strategies:
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Be authentic: Speak honestly about your goals — sincerity resonates.
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Keep it focused: Two minutes go by quickly; stay on topic.
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Show, don’t just tell: Use visuals or examples to illustrate your passion.
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Good lighting and clear sound: You don’t need fancy gear — just clarity.
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End strong: Conclude with a memorable message or call to action.
For Taco Bell Employees
The Taco Bell Scholarship(Employee package) is part of the Live Más program, rewarding team members for dedication and drive both in and outside the workplace.
Employees can apply using the same video-based method but should include how working at Taco Bell has influenced their goals. Many winners start as team members and go on to become community leaders or business owners — a true reflection of the Live Más spirit.
What Makes the Live Más Scholarship Different
Most scholarships focus on academic or financial need. The Live Más Scholarship is different — it focuses on passion and purpose. It’s open to all educational interests, whether you want to become a filmmaker, engineer, teacher, or entrepreneur.
The Taco Bell Foundation believes every young person has a unique story worth sharing — and this program provides the platform and funding to help them tell it.
Conclusion
The Taco Bell Scholarship 2025/2026 continues to empower young people across the United States to dream boldly and live authentically. If you’re driven by a personal mission or creative goal, this program gives you the financial and emotional support to bring your vision to life.
Whether you’re heading to college, trade school, or launching a new initiative, the Live Más Scholarship reminds us that passion — when supported — can truly change lives.