While women continue to make strides in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, significant challenges persist in achieving gender equality. To support and empower women in these fields, various organizations and institutions offer scholarships aimed at reducing financial barriers, encouraging career growth, and fostering diversity. Below is a list of key scholarships available to women pursuing STEM education and careers.
1. AAUW (American Association of University Women) Fellowships and Grants
AAUW offers a variety of fellowships and grants to support women’s education, including in STEM. The Career Development Grants assist women looking to enhance their careers or switch to STEM fields, while the International Fellowships help women from around the world pursue graduate and postgraduate studies in the U.S.
- Award: Up to $30,000
- Eligibility: Women pursuing graduate studies in STEM fields; U.S. citizens or international students may apply.
2. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
SWE provides numerous scholarships for women studying engineering, computer science, and technology. These awards, available to both undergraduate and graduate students, are designed to encourage academic success and leadership in technical fields.
- Award: $1,000 to $15,000
- Eligibility: Women enrolled in engineering, technology, or computer science programs at ABET-accredited institutions.
3. Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program
Formerly the Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship, this program provides financial support to women pursuing degrees in computer science and related fields. In addition to the financial award, recipients participate in a retreat with workshops and career development activities.
- Award: $10,000
- Eligibility: Women pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or related technical fields.
4. Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship
Palantir’s scholarship supports women pursuing careers in computer science and related disciplines. In addition to the monetary award, recipients have the opportunity to attend a professional development workshop at Palantir’s headquarters.
- Award: $7,000 and an expenses-paid workshop.
- Eligibility: Female students in the U.S. or Canada studying computer science or related fields.
5. The BHW Group Women in STEM Scholarship
The BHW Group offers this scholarship to women studying STEM fields, particularly in areas like computer science, information technology, and software engineering. Applicants must submit an essay on their interest in technology and future goals.
- Award: $3,000
- Eligibility: Female students pursuing STEM degrees, including high school seniors who have been accepted into a STEM program.
6. NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
While open to all genders, the NSF’s prestigious GRFP is a valuable opportunity for women pursuing research-based graduate studies in STEM fields. The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion, offering a significant financial package to graduate students.
- Award: $34,000 stipend per year for three years, plus $12,000 for educational costs.
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents pursuing graduate research in STEM fields.
7. Microsoft Women in STEM Scholarship
Microsoft’s scholarship program aims to encourage women to excel in computer science, technology, and engineering. Scholarship recipients may also have the opportunity to intern at Microsoft, gaining valuable industry experience.
- Award: Varies
- Eligibility: Female undergraduate students majoring in computer science, engineering, or related STEM fields.
8. The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship
The P.E.O. International Peace Scholarship is awarded to women from outside the U.S. and Canada who wish to pursue graduate studies in North America. While not specific to STEM, many recipients pursue degrees in science and engineering fields.
- Award: Up to $12,500
- Eligibility: Women from other countries pursuing graduate studies, including in STEM, in the U.S. or Canada.
9. Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes outstanding female students in technology fields, providing financial support and internship opportunities. Adobe Research emphasizes academic excellence, leadership, and a passion for technology.
- Award: $10,000 and an internship at Adobe.
- Eligibility: Women majoring in computer science, engineering, or related technical fields.
10. Amelia Earhart Fellowship by Zonta International
Named after the trailblazing aviator, this fellowship supports women pursuing Ph.D. degrees in aerospace engineering and aerospace sciences. The fellowship aims to increase the representation of women in the aerospace industry.
- Award: $10,000
- Eligibility: Women pursuing doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering or related fields.
Conclusion
These scholarships are instrumental in encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM. By reducing financial barriers and providing opportunities for mentorship, internships, and professional growth, they help foster a more diverse and inclusive future in science and technology fields. With these resources, women can break new ground and make lasting contributions to innovation and discovery.