Women are significantly underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, making up only about 28% of the global STEM workforce. To address this gender gap, numerous organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically designed to support and empower women pursuing STEM education.
These scholarships provide financial assistance, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help female students excel in their academic and professional journeys. Below is a curated list of ten prominent scholarships for women in STEM, aimed at high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students.
Top 10 Scholarships
1. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
- Amount: Up to $15,000
- Eligibility: Women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in engineering, engineering technology, or computer science at ABET-accredited institutions.
Description: SWE offers over $1.5 million annually in scholarships to support women in engineering and technology fields. Applicants submit one application to be considered for all eligible scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and SWE involvement. Recipients gain access to SWE’s professional network and mentorship opportunities.
Deadline: Varies (typically February for undergraduates, January for graduates).
2. Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program
- Amount: $10,000
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate or graduate students in computer science, computer engineering, or related fields, demonstrating academic excellence and leadership.
Description: Formerly the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, this program supports women in technology with financial aid and access to a global community of scholars. Recipients are invited to retreats and networking events to foster career development.
Deadline: Typically December.
3. Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship
- Amount: $7,000
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate students majoring in computer science, software engineering, or related technical fields in the U.S.
Description: Sponsored by Palantir, this scholarship supports women pursuing tech careers. Winners are invited to a virtual development workshop with Palantir engineers, enhancing their professional skills and networks.
Deadline: Typically March.
4. Science Ambassador Scholarship
- Amount: Full tuition for up to four years
- Eligibility: Female high school seniors or undergraduates in STEM fields.
Description: Funded by Cards Against Humanity, this scholarship requires applicants to submit a three-minute video explaining a STEM topic. It aims to empower women to become leaders in science and technology.
Deadline: Typically April.
5. Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship
- Amount: $4,000
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate students majoring in engineering, mathematics, or biological/physical sciences.
Description: This scholarship honors Virginia Heinlein, a chemist and engineer. Applicants submit a 500-1,000 word essay on designated topics, competing for a highly regarded award that recognizes academic and career potential.
Deadline: April 1.
6. BHW Women in STEM Scholarship
- Amount: $3,000
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate or graduate students in STEM at accredited U.S. institutions.
Description: Offered by the BHW Group, this scholarship requires a 500-800 word essay about a transformative app or technology. It supports women in diverse STEM fields, including computer science and engineering.
Deadline: Typically April.
7. Navisite’s Next Steminist Scholarship Program
- Amount: $10,000
- Eligibility: Female high school seniors or undergraduates with a minimum 3.0 GPA pursuing STEM degrees.
Description: This program encourages young women to pursue STEM careers through financial support and mentorship. Applicants submit a 60-second video about their dream STEM career.
Deadline: Typically May.
8. ABC Humane Wildlife Women in STEM Academic Scholarship
- Amount: $1,000
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate or graduate students in STEM fields.
Description: Sponsored by ABC Humane Wildlife Control & Prevention, this scholarship requires a 1,000-word essay on passion for STEM and its impact on biodiversity, planetary health, or human suffering. It aims to increase women’s influence in scientific fields.
Deadline: July 1.
9. AAUW Selected Professions Fellowships
- Amount: Up to $20,000
- Eligibility: Women pursuing master’s degrees in STEM fields with historically low female participation, such as engineering or computer science.
Description: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) supports women in underrepresented STEM fields with fellowships that cover tuition and living expenses, fostering leadership and innovation.
Deadline: Typically December.
10. MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship
- Amount: Up to $6,000
- Eligibilit: Female international students enrolled in STEM programs at MPOWER partner universities in the U.S. or Canada.
Description: This scholarship supports women from diverse backgrounds pursuing STEM degrees, emphasizing societal impact and leadership potential. No borrower status is required.
Deadline: Varies.
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FAQs
Who is eligible for scholarships for women in STEM?
Eligibility typically includes identifying as female and pursuing a degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics). Specific requirements vary, such as academic performance (e.g., minimum GPA), enrollment status (high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate), or financial need. Some scholarships prioritize underrepresented groups, first-generation students, or specific majors like computer science or engineering.
How can I find scholarships for women in STEM?
Start by researching through university financial aid offices, professional organizations like the Society of Women Engineers or Association for Women in Science, and online scholarship databases. Many organizations, such as Google, Microsoft, and AAUW, offer dedicated STEM scholarships for women. Checking eligibility criteria and deadlines early is key.
What materials are typically required for these scholarship applications?
Most scholarships require a completed application form, academic transcripts, and proof of enrollment in a STEM program. Additional materials may include essays (e.g., on your passion for STEM or career goals), letters of recommendation, a resume highlighting STEM-related activities, or creative submissions like videos (e.g., for the Science Ambassador Scholarship).
How can I improve my chances of winning a STEM scholarship?
Maintain a strong GPA, participate in STEM-related extracurriculars (e.g., coding clubs, research projects), and demonstrate leadership through community involvement or mentorship. Craft compelling essays that highlight your passion, goals, and unique perspective. Apply to multiple scholarships to increase your opportunities, and ensure all materials are submitted on time and error-free.
Are there scholarships for women in specific STEM fields?
Yes, many scholarships target specific STEM disciplines. For example, the Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship focuses on computer science, while the Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship supports engineering, math, or physical sciences. Always check the scholarship’s focus to ensure alignment with your major.
Can international students apply for these scholarships?
Some scholarships, like the MPOWER Women in STEM Scholarship, are open to international female students at specific institutions. Others, such as SWE or AAUW fellowships, may prioritize U.S. citizens or residents but often include international students if enrolled in accredited U.S. programs. Verify eligibility for each scholarship.
Do these scholarships offer more than financial support?
Many provide mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities. For instance, SWE offers access to career fairs, Google Women Techmakers includes retreats, and Palantir provides workshops. These resources help recipients build skills and connections for long-term success in STEM careers.
