Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship

Name: NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship

Award Amount: Up to $9,500 per academic year (for up to two years), plus a 10-week paid summer internship

Information And Eligibility:
The NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship Program is a prestigious, mission-focused award funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) that supports undergraduate students who are preparing for careers in oceanic and atmospheric science, research, technology, education, and related fields. Offered through the NOAA Office of Education, this scholarship combines financial support with hands-on professional experience to help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to NOAA’s mission of science, service, and stewardship.

Recipients of the Hollings Scholarship receive up to $9,500 per year to help cover tuition, fees, books, and other educational costs. Scholarships are renewable for a second year of full-time study, providing a total of up to $19,000 in academic assistance. In addition, scholars participate in a full-time 10-week paid summer internship at a NOAA facility, where they work alongside NOAA scientists and professionals on real research, technology, policy, or education projects. During the internship, students earn approximately $700 per week and may receive housing allowances if needed, gaining valuable professional experience and networking opportunities. Travel funds are also provided for mandatory program orientation, scientific symposiums, and conferences where students can present research.

The Hollings Scholarship emphasizes preparation for public service and scientific careers that support NOAA’s broad goals, including enhancing environmental stewardship and public understanding of the ocean and atmosphere. Scholars join a national community of scholars, gaining access to academic support, mentoring, professional development, and opportunities that can strengthen graduate school or career applications in STEM and education fields.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must be enrolled full time at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• At the time of application, must be a sophomore in a four-year program or a junior in a five-year program (or equivalent standing for transfer students).
• Must have and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Must be pursuing a major in a discipline that supports NOAA’s mission (examples include oceanic, environmental, biological, and atmospheric sciences; mathematics; engineering; remote sensing technology; physical and social sciences such as geography or physics; computer and information science; or science teacher education).

Application Requirements:

• Completed online scholarship application.
• Official college transcript(s).
• Responses to required scholarship essays.
• Two academic references.

Deadline: January (annual national deadline, typically late January)

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