Pursuing an engineering degree is a gateway to innovation and problem-solving, but the financial burden of higher education can be daunting. In 2025, numerous scholarships are available to support aspiring engineers, helping to alleviate costs for tuition, books, and living expenses. These scholarships cater to a diverse range of students, from high school seniors to graduate students, and often target specific groups such as women, underrepresented minorities, or those with financial need. This guide highlights the top 10 scholarships for engineering students in 2025, offering a mix of merit-based, need-based, and industry-specific opportunities to help fund your education and fuel your career in engineering.
Top 10 Scholarships for Engineering Students in 2025
1. SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program
Amount: Full tuition plus $30,000–$46,000 annual stipend
Eligibility: U.S. citizens pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in STEM fields, including engineering, with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Description: The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship, funded by the Department of Defense, covers full tuition, provides a generous stipend, health insurance, and internship opportunities. In return, recipients commit to working for the DoD post-graduation.
Deadline: December 5, 2025
2. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship
Amount: $37,000 stipend plus $12,000 education allowance annually for three years
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in graduate engineering programs.
Description: This prestigious fellowship supports graduate students in engineering fields like electrical, civil, and aerospace. It funds research, allowing students to focus on innovative projects without financial stress.
Deadline: October 2025 (specific date varies by field)
3. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
Amount: $2,000–$50,000
Eligibility: Women enrolled in ABET-accredited engineering or engineering technology programs.
Description: SWE offers a variety of scholarships to support women pursuing engineering degrees. These awards recognize academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to advancing gender equity in STEM.
Deadline: February 2, 2026 (varies by scholarship)
4. Barry Goldwater Scholarship
Amount: Up to $7,500 per year
Eligibility: Sophomores and juniors pursuing STEM research careers, including engineering, with a strong academic record.
Description: This highly competitive scholarship supports students aiming for Ph.D.s in engineering and other STEM fields, emphasizing research excellence and innovation.
Deadline: January 27, 2026
5. Google Lime Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: Students with disabilities enrolled in engineering or computer science programs at an accredited U.S. university.
Description: Google’s Lime Scholarship supports students with disabilities, fostering diversity in tech and engineering. Recipients also gain access to networking opportunities with Google.
Deadline: December 2025 (exact date TBD)
6. ASME Scholarships
Amount: $2,000–$10,000
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students majoring in mechanical engineering with a minimum GPA requirement (varies by scholarship).
Description: The American Society of Mechanical Engineers offers scholarships to students demonstrating academic excellence and leadership in mechanical engineering.
Deadline: December 1, 2025
7. National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering (NACME) Scholarships
Amount: Up to $16,000
Eligibility: African American, Hispanic, or Native American students enrolled in engineering programs at NACME partner institutions.
Description: NACME scholarships aim to increase diversity in engineering, providing financial support, mentorship, and access to internships for underrepresented students.
Deadline: Varies by program
8. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF)
Amount: $500–$5,000
Eligibility: Students of Hispanic heritage with a minimum 2.5 GPA, enrolled in STEM programs, including engineering.
Description: HSF supports Hispanic students with scholarships and career resources, helping them succeed in engineering and other fields.
Deadline: August 30, 2025
9. Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: U.S. citizens pursuing engineering, computer science, or mathematics degrees, with demonstrated leadership and financial need.
Description: Lockheed Martin’s scholarship supports students passionate about STEM, offering funding and potential internship opportunities with the company.
Deadline: March 2025 (exact date TBD)
10. Advancing Women in STEM Scholarship
Amount: $6,000
Eligibility: Women pursuing STEM degrees at accredited U.S. institutions.
Description: This scholarship empowers women in engineering and other STEM fields, addressing the gender gap and providing financial support for tuition and related expenses.
Deadline: December 31, 2025
Conclusion
Securing a scholarship can significantly ease the financial burden of an engineering education, allowing you to focus on your studies and career goals. The scholarships listed above offer diverse opportunities for students at various academic levels and backgrounds. By researching eligibility criteria, preparing strong applications, and applying early, you can increase your chances of funding your engineering journey in 2025. Whether you’re aiming for a career in aerospace, mechanical, or computer engineering, these scholarships provide the support needed to turn your aspirations into reality.
READ ALSO: Fully Funded 10 Best Scholarships for African Students 2025-2026
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for engineering scholarships?
Eligibility varies by scholarship but typically includes students enrolled in accredited engineering programs. Criteria may involve academic merit (e.g., minimum GPA), financial need, or specific demographics like women, underrepresented minorities, or students with disabilities. Some scholarships, like the SMART Scholarship, require U.S. citizenship, while others, like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, are open to DACA recipients.
How can I increase my chances of winning an engineering scholarship?
To stand out, start applications early to meet deadlines and gather required materials, such as transcripts and recommendation letters. Tailor your essays to highlight your passion for engineering, relevant experiences, and alignment with the scholarship’s mission. Maintain a strong GPA, participate in extracurriculars like engineering clubs or competitions, and seek smaller, less competitive scholarships to reduce competition.
Are these scholarships available to international students?
Most scholarships listed, such as the SMART Scholarship and NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. However, some, like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, are open to DACA recipients, and others, like certain SWE scholarships, may consider international students enrolled in U.S. institutions. Always check specific eligibility requirements.
Do I need to complete the FAFSA to apply for these scholarships?
Many scholarships, especially need-based ones like the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, require FAFSA completion to assess financial need. Even merit-based scholarships, such as those from universities, may use FAFSA data to determine eligibility for additional aid. Completing the FAFSA is recommended to maximize funding opportunities.
Can graduate students apply for these scholarships?
Yes, several scholarships, including the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, SWE Scholarships, and ASME Scholarships, are open to graduate students. Some, like the SMART Scholarship, support both undergraduate and graduate students, while others, like the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, are limited to undergraduates.