Keeping up with the cost of college seems to be getting harder and harder. From tuition to textbooks, to housing and everyday expenses, the price of higher education can really pile up. Scholarships can take off some of the pressure, but finding ones that fit your background and qualifications takes time that most students don’t have to spare.
One scholarship program is looking to make the burden on students a little lighter. The Taco Bell Foundation has opened applications for its 12th annual Live Más Scholarship, offering more than $13 million in scholarship awards to people ages 16 to 26 who are applying to or enrolled in a post-secondary program. (BTW, the scholarship can be deferred up to one year if the recipient is still in high school.) Individual scholarships worth $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000 are up for grabs and can be used to cover educational expenses including tuition, fees, books, and supplies.
The best part? Students don’t have to apply with their GPA, recommendation letters, test scores, or résumé. Instead, applicants can share what they care about and how they plan to use their education to make a difference.
Interested in applying? Here’s everything you need to know to submit your application.
How to Apply
Applicants can choose between submitting a video lasting 30 seconds to two minutes or a written essay between 250 and 500 words. In either format, the submission should tell a personal story about what drives them and how they hope to make a difference. Those applying should share what they’re passionate about and how they’ve pursued that passion. They should also discuss an experience that influenced their perspective and how they hope to make a difference through their passion, education, or future career. Financial need is also considered, but participants don’t have to show financial need to be eligible for the award. The foundation evaluates candidates holistically, so it’s one factor among others.
To apply, follow the directions on the Taco Bell Foundation’s website on filling out the application and uploading the materials. Applications are due on Jan. 5, 2027. Scholarship recipients will be notified in the spring.
What happens after you win?
The Live Más Scholarship offers support beyond its initial award. Winners can access mentorship, community, and networking opportunities to help them pursue their goals. Recipients join a network of over 3,800 past winners to connect with. These opportunities can help recipients find support and explore career paths that align with their passions.
Recipients may also be eligible to renew their scholarship up to three times. Renewal isn’t automatic, and previous recipients must reapply and meet the program’s requirements.