10 Scholarships for STEM Majors in the USA
Pursuing a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) can be a rewarding and intellectually stimulating journey.
However, the cost of education can often be a barrier for many aspiring STEM students.
Fortunately, numerous scholarships are available to support and encourage talented individuals pursuing careers in STEM fields.
In this article, we will highlight ten prestigious scholarships specifically designed for STEM majors in the USA.
We will provide an overview of each scholarship, along with their requirements, to help you navigate the application process and make your dreams a reality.
1. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP)
The NSF GRFP is a highly competitive and prestigious fellowship that provides financial support to graduate students in STEM disciplines.
It offers a three-year annual stipend, tuition assistance, and opportunities for international research experiences.
Applicants must be US citizens, nationals, or permanent residents, and should have completed their undergraduate degree or be in their first or second year of graduate study.
2. Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program
The Barry Goldwater Scholarship is aimed at undergraduate students who have outstanding potential and intend to pursue research careers in natural sciences, mathematics, or engineering.
Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents, with a strong academic record and a genuine commitment to their chosen field.
Selected scholars receive up to $7,500 annually to cover tuition, fees, books, and room and board.
3. SMART Scholarship for Service Program
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship Program is sponsored by the Department of Defense (DoD).
It supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in STEM fields related to national defense.
Applicants must be US citizens, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and agree to work for the DoD upon completion of their degree.
The scholarship covers full tuition, a generous stipend, summer research internships, and employment placement after graduation.
4. Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship
The Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship is designed to support outstanding individuals pursuing a PhD in applied physical, biological, or engineering sciences.
Recipients receive a substantial stipend, full tuition support, and mentorship opportunities.
Applicants must demonstrate exceptional creativity, intellectual curiosity, and leadership potential. The fellowship is open to US citizens or permanent residents.
5. National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship (NDSEG)
Administered by the Department of Defense, the NDSEG Fellowship is awarded to US citizens and nationals who are pursuing doctoral degrees in STEM disciplines.
This fellowship provides full tuition, a generous stipend, and extensive networking opportunities.
Successful applicants must exhibit high academic achievement and demonstrate a commitment to serving the nation through science and engineering.
6. Google Lime Scholarship Program
The Google Lime Scholarship aims to support undergraduate and graduate students with disabilities pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or a related technical field.
Eligible applicants must be enrolled in an accredited US university, demonstrate academic merit, and actively engage in promoting inclusivity in the field of technology.
Selected scholars receive financial support, mentorship, and an invitation to the annual Google Scholars’ Retreat.
7. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
The Society of Women Engineers offers a variety of scholarships to female students pursuing degrees in engineering or computer science.
These scholarships aim to empower and encourage women to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Applicants must be SWE members, enrolled in an ABET-accredited program, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
The scholarship amount varies, ranging from $1,000 to $20,000.
8. Microsoft Tuition Scholarship Program
The Microsoft Tuition Scholarship Program supports undergraduate students majoring in computer science, computer engineering, or a related technical field.
Applicants must be enrolled full-time at a four-year university in the United States or Canada and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
The scholarship covers a significant portion of tuition costs and provides opportunities for mentorship and summer internships at Microsoft.
9. NASA Space Technology Research Fellowship (NSTRF)
The NSTRF program aims to cultivate a highly skilled workforce for NASA’s future space missions.
It provides fellowships to graduate students pursuing research in areas of interest to NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate.
Applicants must be US citizens or permanent residents, pursuing research aligned with NASA’s strategic goals. The fellowship offers a generous stipend and covers tuition and health insurance.
10. American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) Scholarships
AISES provides various scholarships to Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students pursuing degrees in STEM fields.
These scholarships aim to increase the representation of Indigenous peoples in STEM disciplines. Eligibility requirements and award amounts vary based on specific scholarships, but applicants generally need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to their community.
FAQs
How do I apply for these scholarships?
Each scholarship has its own application process. Visit the respective scholarship’s official website for detailed instructions and application deadlines.
Pay attention to eligibility requirements, essay prompts, recommendation letters, and any additional documents that may be required.
Are these scholarships only available to US citizens?
While many scholarships are open to US citizens and permanent residents, some may also consider international students or those with DACA status. Always check the specific eligibility requirements for each scholarship.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. However, be mindful of the application deadlines and ensure that you submit separate applications for each scholarship.
How competitive are these scholarships?
The competitiveness varies among scholarships. Some scholarships, like the NSF GRFP or the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, are highly competitive due to the prestigious nature and significant benefits they offer. It is essential to prepare a strong application with compelling essays, solid academic records, and impactful recommendations.