The fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) have traditionally been male-dominated, but today, more and more women are making their mark in these industries. To encourage and support women pursuing careers in STEM, numerous organizations, foundations, and universities offer scholarships for women in STEM. These scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also empower women to break barriers and thrive in fields that are pivotal to innovation and technological advancement.
If you’re a woman aspiring to build a career in STEM, this article highlights the top 15 college scholarships for women in STEM in 2024. These scholarships vary in eligibility, application requirements, and benefits, but they all have one common goal: to support and promote women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
1. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides International Fellowships to women from all over the world who are pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the United States. While the fellowship is open to women in all fields, it strongly encourages women in STEM fields to apply.
Eligibility:
- Must be a woman pursuing full-time graduate or postdoctoral study.
- Open to international students.
Benefits:
- Varies from $18,000 to $30,000 depending on the level of study.
- Supports tuition, living expenses, and other academic fees.
Application Deadline: November 15, 2024.
2. Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship
The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship is designed to encourage women to pursue careers in computer science and technology. The scholarship honors the legacy of Anita Borg, a pioneer for women in tech.
Eligibility:
- Female students enrolled in an accredited university.
- Must be pursuing a degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related field.
Benefits:
- $10,000 award.
- Mentorship opportunities from Google engineers.
Application Deadline: Typically opens in early January and closes in mid-March.
3. Women Techmakers Scholarship
The Women Techmakers Scholarship, offered by Google, aims to recognize outstanding women in the tech field. This scholarship provides financial assistance to women studying computer science, engineering, or related fields.
Eligibility:
- Female students pursuing a degree in computer science, computer engineering, or related fields.
- Must be enrolled in a full-time degree program at an accredited institution.
Benefits:
- $10,000 award.
- Opportunity to attend the Women Techmakers Summit.
Application Deadline: Varies annually (usually March).
4. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) offers a wide variety of scholarships for women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in engineering, technology, and computer science. SWE is dedicated to advancing women in engineering and related fields.
Eligibility:
- Female students enrolled in an engineering or related STEM program.
- Must be a member of SWE (though membership fees are often waived for students).
Benefits:
- Varies from $1,000 to $15,000 depending on the scholarship.
- Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance and leadership potential.
Application Deadline: February 15, 2024.
5. Microsoft Scholarships for Women in STEM
Microsoft offers various scholarships to women pursuing studies in STEM, particularly those in computer science, computer engineering, or related fields. The scholarships support students who show promise in innovation and technology.
Eligibility:
- Female students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science or related fields.
- Must have a minimum GPA requirement (typically 3.0 or higher).
Benefits:
- $20,000 for undergraduate students.
- Mentorship and internship opportunities with Microsoft.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2024.
6. NCWIT Aspirations in Computing (AiC) Award
The National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) offers the Aspirations in Computing (AiC) Award to young women who have shown exceptional promise in the field of computing. The award is aimed at high school girls and college students who are considering careers in computer science and engineering.
Eligibility:
- High school and college female students interested in computing and IT.
Benefits:
- Scholarships, cash awards, and recognition.
- Mentorship and networking opportunities with top industry leaders.
Application Deadline: October 2024.
7. The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship Program
The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship is awarded to women who have demonstrated excellence in scientific research and innovation. This fellowship is aimed at women in the STEM fields who are engaged in postdoctoral work in the sciences.
Eligibility:
- Female postdoctoral researchers in the United States.
- Must be involved in scientific research or innovation.
Benefits:
- $60,000 for research support.
- Mentorship opportunities from industry leaders.
Application Deadline: Typically in February.
8. The Google Women Engineers Scholarship
The Google Women Engineers Scholarship supports undergraduate women pursuing careers in computer science or software engineering. This scholarship is part of Google’s commitment to encouraging diversity in the tech industry.
Eligibility:
- Female undergraduate students majoring in computer science, software engineering, or related fields.
- Must demonstrate strong academic achievement and leadership potential.
Benefits:
- $10,000 scholarship for undergraduate students.
- Networking and mentorship opportunities.
Application Deadline: Typically in December.
9. P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship
The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is for women from other countries who are pursuing graduate study in the U.S. or Canada. While the scholarship is open to women in all fields, those pursuing graduate studies in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- Female international students pursuing graduate degrees in the U.S. or Canada.
- Must demonstrate financial need.
Benefits:
- Up to $12,500 in funding for tuition and living expenses.
Application Deadline: December 15, 2024.
10. Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund
The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund offers scholarships to low-income women aged 35 or older who are pursuing a college education. Women studying in STEM fields, particularly those entering technical careers, are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- Female students 35 years or older.
- Must be enrolled in a STEM-related degree program.
Benefits:
- Up to $2,000 in financial assistance per year.
- Renewable for up to four years.
Application Deadline: April 2024.
11. The STEM Women Entrepreneurs Scholarship
The STEM Women Entrepreneurs Scholarship is for female students pursuing degrees in technology, engineering, and math, with a focus on entrepreneurship. This scholarship is ideal for those who want to build their own tech-related business.
Eligibility:
- Female students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in STEM.
- Must have a passion for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Benefits:
- $5,000 scholarship.
- Mentorship from successful female entrepreneurs in STEM fields.
Application Deadline: August 2024.
12. Intel Women in Technology Scholarship
Intel offers scholarships to women pursuing degrees in technology fields. This initiative is aimed at increasing female representation in the tech industry, particularly in fields related to engineering and computing.
Eligibility:
- Female students studying electrical engineering, computer science, or related fields.
- Must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Benefits:
- $10,000 per academic year.
- Internship opportunities at Intel.
Application Deadline: May 2024.
13. The UNCF STEM Scholars Program
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) offers the STEM Scholars Program for African American women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This program is dedicated to reducing the financial barriers faced by underrepresented students in STEM.
Eligibility:
- African American women enrolled in STEM-related programs at accredited institutions.
Benefits:
- Up to $5,000 per year in scholarship funding.
- Access to STEM-specific internships and job placement services.
Application Deadline: April 2024.
14. The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP)
The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) offers funding for graduate students in STEM fields, particularly those in research-based programs. Women pursuing Ph.D. programs in STEM are encouraged to apply.
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Must be enrolled in a graduate program in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Benefits:
- $34,000 per year for three years.
- Additional research and travel grants.
Application Deadline: October 2024.
15. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Scholarships for Women in Engineering
The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) offers several scholarships for women pursuing degrees in civil engineering. These scholarships are aimed at increasing the participation of women in the field of civil engineering.
Eligibility:
- Female students studying civil engineering or related fields.
- Must be enrolled in an accredited civil engineering program.
Benefits:
- Varies by scholarship (up to $10,000).
- Internship and networking opportunities with ASCE members.
Application Deadline: January 2024.
Conclusion
The future of STEM fields depends on increasing the participation and success of women in these disciplines. Scholarships for women in STEM are not just financial aid—they represent a powerful tool to empower women to break through barriers, innovate, and lead in industries that are shaping the future. If you’re a woman pursuing a career in STEM, these top scholarships for women in STEM in 2024 provide a gateway to education, career growth, and a chance to make a lasting impact in your chosen field. Apply today and take the next step toward your future in STEM!