What Is the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship?
The Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship is a unique opportunity for students of ages 16 to 26 who are passionate about making a difference. Unlike traditional scholarships prioritizing academics or athletics, this program rewards creativity, drive, and vision.
To apply, students must submit a 30-second to 2-minute video showcasing their aspirations and how they plan to use their education to create positive change. The Taco Bell Foundation selects winners based on passion and impact rather than grades or test scores.
Who Is Eligible for the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship?
The Taco Bell Scholarship is designed for students ages 16 to 26 who are passionate about making a difference.
Unlike traditional scholarships, eligibility is not based on GPA, test scores, or financial need. Instead, applicants must demonstrate passion, creativity, and a clear vision for their future.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be between 16 and 26 years old at the time of application.
- Be a legal resident of the 50 U.S. states or the District of Columbia.
- Be currently enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited post-secondary educational program in the U.S., including:
- Two-year and four-year colleges and universities
- Vocational-technical and trade schools
- Submit a 30-second to 2-minute video showcasing their passion and how they plan to use their education to create positive change.
No GPA or Test Score Requirements
Unlike many scholarships, the Live Más Scholarship does not require a minimum GPA or SAT/ACT scores. Selection is based entirely on creativity, vision, and passion, making it an accessible opportunity for students from diverse academic backgrounds.
The Role of Community Impact
While financial need is not a requirement, applicants who demonstrate leadership and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities are more likely to stand out.
Judges look for students who:
- Have a clear passion and purpose—whether in the arts, sciences, entrepreneurship, or activism.
- Are actively involved in making an impact through school activities, community service, or personal initiatives.
- Show ambition and a strong vision for how their education will help them achieve their goals.
This scholarship is an opportunity for students who think beyond academics and want to use their education as a tool for change.
Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship Requirements
The Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship has a unique application process that prioritizes passion and creativity over traditional academic achievements.
This program does not require essays, recommendation letters, or transcripts. Instead, applicants must submit a short video that highlights their passion and vision for the future.
Required Application Materials
- Video Submission (Mandatory): A 30-second to 2-minute video that answers the following:
- What is your passion?
- How are you pursuing your passion?
- How will education help you make an impact?
- Personal Information: Basic details such as name, age, address, and contact information.
- Educational Information: Details on your current school or intended college, university, or trade school.
Pro Tip: The video does not need to be professionally produced—authenticity and originality are more important than high production value.
No Essays, Letters of Recommendation, or Test Scores Required
Unlike most scholarships, the Live Más Scholarship does not require:
- Essays: Your video is the only requirement for submission.
- Letters of Recommendation: No teacher or mentor endorsements are needed.
- Academic Transcripts or Test Scores: GPA, SAT, and ACT scores are not considered in the selection process.
Additional Materials (If Selected for a Scholarship)
Finalists may be required to verify their school enrollment before receiving scholarship funds. The Taco Bell Foundation will provide instructions for additional documentation if needed.
This streamlined application process makes the Live Más Scholarship accessible to a wide range of students, encouraging them to express themselves in a creative and personal way.
How to Apply for the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship
Applying for the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship is a simple and creative process, requiring only a short video submission instead of essays, test scores, or transcripts.
The selection committee looks for students who express their passion clearly and demonstrate how their education will help them make an impact.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Video Submission
- Create a 30-second to 2-minute video that highlights:
- Your passion and what drives you
- How you are currently pursuing your passion
- How your education will help you make a positive impact
Step 2: Visit the Application Portal
- Go to the Taco Bell Foundation website.
- Click “Apply Now” to start your application.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
- Provide basic personal information, including name, contact details, and educational background.
- Upload your video submission following the platform’s guidelines.
- Double-check that your video meets the 30-second to 2-minute requirement.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
- The 2024 application cycle is currently closed, but the 2025 application period is expected to open in November 2025 and close in January 2026.
- Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email from the Taco Bell Foundation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Missing the Deadline: Applications close in early January each year. Late submissions will not be considered.
- Not Following Video Requirements: Videos that exceed 2 minutes or fall short of 30 seconds may be disqualified.
- Ignoring the Prompt: Make sure your video clearly answers all three required questions about your passion, your journey, and how education will support your goals.
- Overcomplicating the Video: Judges value creativity and authenticity over high production quality. Keep it genuine and engaging.
- Submitting an Incomplete Application: Ensure all fields are filled out and your video is uploaded correctly before hitting submit.
The Live Más Scholarship is one of the most accessible scholarships available, giving students the freedom to express themselves without academic pressure.
Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship Deadline & Important Dates
The Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship follows a set application timeline each year, with applications typically opening in November and closing in January.
Below are the key dates for the 2024 cycle for reference. The 2025 dates have not yet been announced but are expected to follow a similar timeline.
Key Dates for the 2024 Application Cycle
- Application Opened: November 1, 2024
- Application Deadline: January 8, 2025, 5:00 p.m. PST (Closed—2025 application cycle dates TBA)
- Selection Period: January 9, 2025 – April 23, 2025
- Recipients Announced: On or around April 28, 2025
- Scholarship Funds Distributed: Summer 2025
Note: The 2025 cycle is expected to open in November 2025 and close in January 2026. Check the Taco Bell Foundation website for updates.
Recommended Timeline for Applicants
- September–October 2025 (Estimated for 2025 cycle)
- Start brainstorming and planning your video submission.
- Research past winners to understand what makes a strong application.
- November–December 2025 (Estimated for 2025 cycle)
- Begin the application process as soon as the portal opens.
- Film, edit, and finalize your video submission.
- Gather your school enrollment details for the application.
- January 2026 (Estimated for 2025 cycle)
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Double-check that your video meets all of the Taco Bell Scholarships requirements.
- April 2026 (Estimated for 2025 cycle)
- Scholarship winners are notified via email and announced on the Taco Bell Foundation website.
- Summer 2026 (Estimated for 2025 cycle)
- Scholarship funds are distributed directly to recipients’ schools for tuition and other educational expenses.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship
The Live Más Scholarship is not based on grades or test scores, so your video submission is the key to standing out. Judges look for passionate, creative, and driven individuals who clearly articulate how education will help them achieve their goals.
Make Your Video Stand Out
- Answer the three key questions: What is your passion? How are you pursuing it? How will education help?
- Show your passion through action: Include footage of you working on your craft, volunteering, or leading a project.
- Be authentic: Your story matters more than professional editing.
The Role of Community Service & Leadership
While not required, showcasing leadership, volunteer work, or impact-driven initiatives can strengthen your application. Judges look for applicants who demonstrate initiative and inspire change.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship
How competitive is the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship?
With millions in funding and hundreds of applicants each year, the scholarship is competitive, but any passionate student has a chance to win.
Can I apply if I’m already in college?
Yes! The scholarship is open to both high school students and college students between 16 and 26 years old.
How will I receive the scholarship money?
Funds are sent directly to your school and can be used for tuition, fees, and educational expenses.
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