Science Scholarships for College and University Students
There are hundreds of science scholarships available for students pursuing degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, or other scientific fields. These awards come from universities, private organizations, and government agencies to encourage innovation, research, and academic excellence. Many provide tuition assistance, lab funding, or research stipends for deserving students.
Scholarships for Women in Science and STEM
Many programs are designed specifically to increase the representation of women in science and technology. Notable examples include:
- Association for Women in Science (AWIS) Scholarships: Provides financial support to women studying STEM at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
- L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Awards: Recognizes outstanding women in scientific fields who show exceptional potential and leadership.
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships: Offers funding for women majoring in engineering, computer science, and physical sciences.
These scholarships help promote equality in STEM and provide financial support to help women advance in science careers.
Science Scholarships and Grants for College Students
College students majoring in the sciences have access to a wide variety of national and institutional scholarship programs, including:
- National Science Foundation (NSF) Scholarships: Provides funding for students conducting scientific research at accredited universities.
- American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program: Supports underrepresented students pursuing chemistry-related degrees.
- University-Based Science Awards: Many colleges offer department-level scholarships for top-performing science majors.
These scholarships often cover tuition and lab fees or help fund research projects and study materials.
Undergraduate Science Scholarships
Undergraduate students can apply for several nationally recognized scholarships that reward strong academics and scientific curiosity, such as:
- Barry Goldwater Scholarship: Honors students with outstanding potential for research careers in science and mathematics.
- Astronaut Scholarship: Provides up to $15,000 for students who show innovation and leadership in STEM fields.
- Institutional Merit Awards: Offered by universities for undergraduates demonstrating academic excellence and research engagement.
These programs help build early research experience and ease the cost of tuition for science majors.
High School Science Scholarships and Competitions
High school students with a passion for science can compete for national and regional awards, including:
- Regeneron Science Talent Search: One of the nation’s most prestigious programs, offering up to $250,000 in scholarships for innovative research projects.
- Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF): Recognizes high school students for original scientific research and innovation.
- Regional STEM Scholarships: Local programs that encourage high school students to explore science and technology careers.
These scholarships reward young scientists for academic achievement, creativity, and dedication to research.
STEM Scholarships Supporting Science Majors
STEM scholarships are open to students studying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics disciplines. Key programs include:
- Google Women Techmakers Scholarship: Encourages women pursuing computer science and STEM degrees.
- Microsoft Tuition Scholarship: Supports students studying computer science, engineering, and natural sciences.
- Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship: Offers financial assistance to students pursuing aerospace, physics, or related STEM fields.
These awards promote innovation and help students gain practical experience through industry connections and mentoring opportunities.
Dellums SMART Scholarship for STEM Students
The Dellums SMART Scholarship (Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation) is a Department of Defense program for students pursuing STEM degrees. It includes:
- Full tuition coverage and educational expenses.
- An annual stipend and paid summer internships at Department of Defense facilities.
- Guaranteed employment with the Department of Defense after graduation.
This scholarship helps students apply their scientific training to careers in research, technology, and national defense.
Environmental Science Scholarships
Students passionate about sustainability and environmental research can apply for awards such as:
- Udall Undergraduate Scholarship: Supports students committed to environmental policy, sustainability, or conservation.
- Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) Scholarships: Funds undergraduate and graduate students studying waste management or environmental engineering.
- Garden Club of America Environmental Studies Awards: Provides funding for students researching ecology, conservation, or plant sciences.
These scholarships promote leadership in conservation, climate science, and environmental education.
SMART Scholarship Requirements and Eligibility
Applicants for the SMART Scholarship must meet the following requirements:
- Be U.S. citizens enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university.
- Be pursuing an eligible STEM degree.
- Maintain a strong GPA (typically 3.0 or higher).
- Agree to work with the Department of Defense after graduation.
This scholarship is ideal for students seeking a fully funded path toward a science or engineering career in government research and development.
Tips for Applying to Science Scholarships
To improve your chances of receiving a science scholarship, consider the following strategies:
- Start Early: Begin researching scholarship opportunities in high school or your first year of college.
- Highlight Research Experience: Include lab work, published papers, or science fair projects in your application.
- Use Trusted Databases: Search verified platforms like CollegeWhale.com for science and STEM scholarships.
- Apply Broadly: Combine national, state, and institutional opportunities to maximize your funding potential.
Consistent effort, academic focus, and strong application materials can significantly increase your chances of earning a scholarship in the sciences.
Reviewed by CollegeWhale Editorial Team on November, 2025. Content is updated regularly to reflect current scholarship deadlines and verified data from official sources.
