Engineering Scholarships and Grants for Future Engineers
Engineering scholarships provide financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in engineering and other STEM fields. These awards are funded by universities, professional organizations, corporations, and government agencies to help train the next generation of engineers solving real-world challenges.
Are There Engineering Scholarships for High School Seniors?
Yes, high school seniors planning to major in engineering have access to a wide range of scholarships. These programs support future STEM majors and often reward academic excellence, leadership, and hands-on project experience. Examples include:
- Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Scholarship: For students pursuing civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering—especially those interested in public service careers.
- FIRST Robotics Scholarships: Available to students who have participated in FIRST Robotics competitions and plan to study engineering.
- Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship: Offers $10,000 per year to high-achieving seniors from underrepresented backgrounds entering engineering or computer science programs.
What Scholarships and Grants Are Available for Civil Engineering Students?
Civil engineering majors can apply for scholarships that support studies in construction, infrastructure, and environmental design. Examples include:
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Scholarships: Offers multiple awards for undergraduate and graduate civil engineering students.
- ACI Foundation Scholarships: Supports students focusing on concrete, structural, and environmental engineering.
- PCI Foundation Scholarships: For students interested in precast concrete and structural design.
Are There Engineering Scholarships for Undergraduate Students?
Yes, many scholarships are available for undergraduate engineering majors across disciplines. Examples include:
- National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Scholarships: Merit-based awards for students enrolled in ABET-accredited engineering programs.
- Lockheed Martin and Boeing Scholarships: Funding for students pursuing aerospace, electrical, or mechanical engineering degrees.
- University-Based Scholarships: Many colleges offer exclusive funding for upper-level engineering students with strong academic standing.
What Scholarships Are Available for Mechanical Engineering Students?
Mechanical engineering students can apply for targeted scholarships such as:
- ASME Scholarships: Provided by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers for academically strong, active student members.
- Ford Motor Company Engineering Scholarships: For students pursuing degrees in mechanical, automotive, or systems engineering.
- GE Foundation Scholar-Leaders Program: Supports students with financial need and leadership potential in STEM.
What Are Merit-Based Engineering Scholarships?
Merit-based engineering scholarships reward top students for their academic performance, leadership, and STEM involvement. Notable examples include:
- Barry Goldwater Scholarship: One of the most prestigious undergraduate awards for students pursuing research careers in STEM, including engineering.
- Tau Beta Pi Scholarships: Offered by the national engineering honor society to outstanding upperclassmen across all disciplines.
- SMART Scholarship for Service: A Department of Defense program covering full tuition plus a stipend for STEM students who commit to post-graduation government service.
Are There Engineering Scholarships for Minorities?
Yes, many organizations support underrepresented students in engineering. Examples include:
- NACME (National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering) Scholarships: For minority students pursuing engineering or computer science degrees.
- NSBE Scholarships: Offered by the National Society of Black Engineers to support members in accredited programs.
- Hispanic Scholarship Fund STEM Awards: Supports Hispanic students studying engineering, math, or science.
What Scholarships Are Available for Women in Engineering?
To promote gender diversity in STEM, several organizations offer scholarships for female engineering students. Examples include:
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships: Provides over $1 million annually to women in engineering, technology, and computer science.
- AAUW Selected Professions Fellowships: For women pursuing graduate degrees in traditionally male-dominated fields like mechanical and civil engineering.
- Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program: Offers funding and mentorship to women in engineering and technology worldwide.
How Do You Qualify for Engineering Scholarships?
Most engineering scholarships require applicants to:
- Be enrolled in or accepted to an accredited engineering program.
- Maintain a minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher).
- Demonstrate leadership or involvement in STEM-related activities, such as robotics, coding, or design competitions.
- Meet additional eligibility criteria, such as major field, demographic background, or state residency.
Some scholarships also require essays, reference letters, or project portfolios.
Tips for Winning Engineering Scholarships
Use these strategies to improve your chances of success:
- Apply early and often: Some scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis.
- Customize your applications: Align essays and materials with the scholarship’s goals or mission.
- Highlight hands-on experience: Showcase internships, robotics projects, research, or maker competitions.
- Join professional organizations: Groups like ASME, IEEE, or SWE often offer scholarships to members.
Are There Scholarships for Specific Engineering Fields?
Yes, many scholarships are field-specific and tied to professional organizations. Examples include:
- IEEE Scholarships: For students in electrical and electronics engineering.
- SME Education Foundation Scholarships: Supports manufacturing and industrial engineering majors.
- AIChE Scholarships: For chemical engineering students who are members of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
- SAE International Scholarships: For students in automotive or aerospace engineering programs.
Check industry associations for specialized scholarships related to your chosen major.
Are There Engineering Internships That Include Scholarships?
Yes, several internship programs also provide scholarships or tuition support. Examples include:
- NASA Pathways Internship Program: Paid internships that can lead to scholarships and future employment opportunities.
- Department of Energy Scholars Program: Offers research internships and scholarship benefits for engineering and energy-related majors.
- NSF Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU): Provides summer research opportunities with stipends, housing, and potential scholarship support.
