By designating this gift to Computer Science & Engineering, Microsoft has made an important investment in the future of the software industry. According to Bill Gates III, "Institutions such as the University of Washington provide the software industry with the research and development talent we will need to continue our success. Microsoft has enjoyed a close working relationship with the University of Washington and will continue to look forward to a strong relationship in the future."
Selection of recipients is based principally on academic merit.
This scholarship is available only to students currently enrolled as Computer Science or Computer Engineering majors at the University of Washington.