For students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), securing financial support can be crucial to their academic success. Here’s a focused list of top education grants tailored specifically for STEM students.
1. National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program
The NSF GRFP provides three years of financial support for graduate students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in STEM fields. It includes a stipend and funds for tuition and fees.
2. NASA Space Grant Program
Administered through state-based consortia, NASA Space Grants support undergraduate and graduate students interested in aerospace-related studies. Grants often include research opportunities and internships with NASA centers.
3. Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program
This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding undergraduate students in STEM fields who plan to pursue research careers. Recipients receive up to $7,500 per year for tuition, fees, books, and room and board.
4. SMART Scholarship Program
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship offers full tuition coverage, stipends, and employment placement with the Department of Defense for undergraduate and graduate students studying STEM disciplines.
5. Ford Foundation Fellowship Program
The Ford Foundation offers predoctoral, dissertation, and postdoctoral fellowships to individuals committed to a career in teaching and research at the college or university level. Fellowships are open to students in STEM fields among others.
6. American Association of University Women (AAUW) Selected Professions Fellowships
These fellowships support women pursuing full-time study in underrepresented fields, including STEM. Recipients receive funding to cover education and living expenses during their graduate studies.
7. Department of Energy Computational Science Graduate Fellowship (DOE CSGF)
This fellowship supports students pursuing doctoral degrees in fields that use high-performance computing to solve complex problems in science and engineering. It includes a stipend, tuition coverage, and annual conferences.
8. Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to women pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or closely related technical fields. Recipients receive financial support and participate in a retreat to connect with fellow scholars and Google mentors.
9. National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship
Administered by the Department of Defense, NDSEG Fellowships support students pursuing doctoral degrees in STEM disciplines related to defense and national security. It covers tuition and fees, a stipend, and health insurance.
10. Microsoft Research Dissertation Grant
This grant supports doctoral students who are underrepresented in the field of computing. It provides funding to complete their dissertations and includes mentorship opportunities with researchers at Microsoft.
Conclusion
These top education grants for STEM students provide invaluable support to those pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By leveraging these opportunities, students can enhance their academic journeys, conduct groundbreaking research, and contribute to innovation in their respective fields. Explore these grants, prepare diligently, and seize the opportunities they offer to advance your STEM education and career aspirations.