Here are some potential benefits of the Gates Scholarship program:

1. _Full-ride funding_: Covers tuition, fees, room, board, books, transportation, and other personal expenses.
2. _Leadership development_: Opportunities to develop leadership skills and connect with a community of fellow scholars.
3. _Academic support_: Access to academic advising, mentoring, and research opportunities.
4. _Networking opportunities_: Connect with a network of Gates Scholars and alumni.
5. _Personal growth_: Develop important life skills, such as time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
6. _Career opportunities_: Enhanced career prospects and access to job opportunities.
7. _Community engagement_: Opportunities to engage in community service and make a positive impact.
8. _Lifelong connections_: Build lasting relationships with fellow scholars and alumni.
9. _Prestige and recognition_: Receive recognition as a Gates Scholar, a prestigious award.
10. _Support system_: Access to a dedicated support system, including academic and personal guidance.
11. _Flexibility_: Pursue academic and personal interests without financial burden.
12. _Empowerment_: Empowerment to achieve academic and personal goals.

Please note that these benefits may be subject to change, and the program may offer additional benefits not listed here.

Here are some potential eligibility criteria for the Gates Scholarship program:

1. _Citizenship_: Be a US citizen, national, or permanent resident.
2. _Race/Ethnicity_: Be a member of a minority group (e.g., African American, Asian Pacific Islander, Latino, Native American).
3. _Academic achievement_: Maintain a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.3).
4. _Income level_: Come from a low-income household (e.g., Pell Grant eligible).
5. _High school senior_: Be a current high school senior.
6. _College plans_: Plan to enroll in a four-year college or university.
7. _Leadership potential_: Demonstrate leadership skills and potential.
8. _Community service_: Show a commitment to community service and social justice.
9. _Recommendations_: Submit letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or community leaders.
10. _Personal statement_: Submit a personal statement essay.
11. _Financial need_: Demonstrate financial need (e.g., FAFSA required).
12. _Other requirements_: Meet any additional requirements (e.g., SAT/ACT scores, GPA in specific subjects).

Please note that these eligibility criteria may be subject to change, and the program may have additional or different requirements.

Here is a potential application procedure for the Gates Scholarship program:

*Step 1: Review Eligibility Criteria*

- Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you meet the requirements
- Check the program's website for any updates or changes

*Step 2: Create an Account*

- Go to the program's website and create an account
- Fill out the registration form with your contact information

*Step 3: Complete the Application Form*

- Log in to your account and complete the application form
- Fill out all required fields and upload any necessary documents

*Step 4: Submit Recommendations*

- Identify two recommenders (e.g., teacher, mentor, community leader)
- Provide their contact information and request letters of recommendation
- Ensure recommenders submit their letters by the deadline

*Step 5: Upload Personal Statement and Documents*

- Write and upload your personal statement essay
- Upload any additional required documents (e.g., transcripts, awards)

*Step 6: Review and Edit*

- Review your application for completeness and accuracy
- Edit and revise as necessary

*Step 7: Submit Application*

- Submit your application by the deadline
- Ensure all materials are uploaded and recommendations are received

*Step 8: Application Review*

- Applications will be reviewed by the selection committee
- Selection will be based on eligibility, academic achievement, leadership, community service, and personal statement

*Step 9: Interviews (if selected)*

- Some applicants may be invited for an interview
- Interviews will be conducted by the selection committee or designated representatives

*Step 10: Award Notification*

- Selected scholars will be notified by email or phone
- Award details and next steps will be provided

Please note that this is just a sample application procedure and may not reflect the actual procedure used by the Gates Scholarship program.