The Taco Bell Scholarship — more formally known as the Live Más Scholarship — is one of the most exciting and unconventional scholarship opportunities available in the United States for the 2026/2027 academic year. Whether you’re a passionate high school student, college student, or even a Taco Bell Team Member with big goals, this scholarship invites you to share your story, fuel your dreams, and gain financial support for your education — without the standard GPA or test-score requirements.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the scholarship, including what it is, who can apply, how to apply, deadlines, award amounts, renewal options, tips for success, and how it can support your 2026/2027 academic plans.
What Is the Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship?
The Live Más Scholarship is an annual program run by the Taco Bell Foundation, designed to support young people in pursuing post-secondary education — whether that’s a four-year university, community college, vocation or trade school, or another accredited program. What sets this scholarship apart is its focus on passion, purpose, and storytelling rather than academic metrics like GPA and test scores.
The scholarship celebrates what the foundation describes as the spirit of “Live Más” — embracing unconventional paths, turning curiosity into action, and making a positive impact in the world.
Taco Bell Scholarship Details: 2026/2027 Cycle
Application Period
The Live Más Scholarship application for the 2026 cycle is open from October 14, 2025, through January 6, 2026 (5:00 PM PT).
Who Can Apply Taco Bell Scholarship program 2026/2027?
There are two main applicant types:
1. New Applicants
Legal residents of the 50 United States or Washington, D.C., or a dependent child of an active-duty U.S. military member.
Between the ages of 16 and 26 at the time of application.
On track to apply for or currently enrolled in an accredited post-secondary program (college, university, vocational, trade, etc.).
2. Renewal Applicants
Past Live Más Scholarship recipients who have substantially used their previous award and are still enrolled in an accredited program.
There’s no age limit for renewals.
How Much Money Can You Receive For Taco Bell Scholarship program 2026/2027?
The Taco Bell Foundation is awarding up to $14.5 million in scholarship funding for the 2026 cycle — the largest amount in the scholarship’s history.
Scholarships typically range from:
$5,000
$10,000
$25,000 per recipient
Winners will be announced around April 21, 2026, and funds are available for use beginning Fall 2026 and beyond.
What Makes This Scholarship Unique?
No GPA or Test Scores Needed
Unlike traditional scholarships, the Live Más Scholarship does not require:
GPAs
SAT/ACT scores
Transcripts or recommendation letters
Instead, it asks you to show your passion, impact, and how you live your purpose.
You can submit your application in one of two formats:
Video Submission
A 30-second to 2-minute original video about your passion and goals.
Essay Submission
A written response (250–500 words) with up to one optional photo.
Both formats ask you to address:
What drives your passion
How you’re pursuing it
What impact you hope to make
How you embody the spirit of “Live Más” in your life
Who Should Apply Taco Bell Scholarship program 2026/2027?
This scholarship is ideal for students who:
Are passionate about a field of study, career goal, creative pursuit, or community impact initiative.
Want to share their personal story, often in creative ways.
Are ready to pursue post-secondary education but may not have top academic scores.
Are Taco Bell fans or employees, though anyone who meets eligibility can apply.
Click here to apply from the official website
Renewal Eligibility — Continue Your Journey
If you’ve previously won a Live Más Scholarship, you can apply for renewal up to three additional times as long as you’re enrolled in an accredited program and your prior funds have been substantially used.
This means a deep, ongoing commitment to your goals and continued storytelling about your progress and evolving impact.
Tips for a Standout Application
Here are some proven strategies to make your submission stand out:
Tell a Compelling Story
Focus on your unique journey, not just what you want to do. Use real moments and examples to connect emotionally with reviewers.
Be Authentic
The foundation values honesty and personality over high production value. Use your voice — whether in video or writing — to reflect who you really are.
Address All Prompts Clearly
Make sure you answer:
What your passion is
How you’re pursuing it
Why it matters
How your education fits into your future goals
Show Impact
If possible, include examples of how your passion has already made an impact — in your life, school, or community.
What Happens After You Apply Taco Bell Scholarship program 2026/2027?
Once applications close on January 6, 2026:
Reviewers will evaluate all submissions between January and April 2026.
Winners will be notified around April 21, 2026.
Scholarship funds will be available for the 2026/2027 academic year and beyond.
Scholarship funds can be used toward qualified educational expenses such as tuition, fees, books, and course-specific supplies. They cannot be used for loans or non-education expenses.
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Conclusion Thoughts
The Taco Bell Live Más Scholarship (2026/2027) is more than just financial aid — it’s a platform that values passion, creativity, and drive. With no GPA requirements and multiple ways to share your story, this scholarship empowers students who might otherwise be overlooked in traditional academic scholarships.
Whether you’re pursuing science, art, entrepreneurship, community work, or trade skills, the Live Más Scholarship invites you to bring your boldest dream to life and fuel your future.
