10 STEM Scholarships You Should Apply To as a High Schooler
If you’re planning to pursue a STEM degree in college, you should consider applying for scholarships to fund your education. Scholarships can provide crucial support and present unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and innovative projects. Plus, qualifying for prestigious scholarships will help your application stand out.
Here are 10 STEM scholarships you can apply for:
Application Deadline: Varying deadlines based on cohort.
Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year.
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Eligibility:
You must be currently enrolled in high school
Students must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement. (Note. students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
No previous knowledge of your field of interest is required!
Program Dates: Summer cohort runs from June to August, Fall cohort from September to December, Winter cohort from December to February, Spring from March to June
Cost: Full financial aid available!
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program offers extensive 1-on-1 research opportunities for high school students, across a broad range of subject areas that you can explore as a high schooler.
The program pairs high-school students with Ph.D. mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project.
At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have developed an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from various STEM subjects such as physics, computer science, engineering, chemistry, marine science and more. You can find more details about the application here!
Application Deadline: November 7, 2024
Duration: Application period spans June 1 – November 7, 2024
Location: Remote
Eligibility:
Any student living in and attending their last year of secondary school in the US and its territories may apply, regardless of citizenship
Students who are US citizens living abroad may also qualify
Program Dates: Regeneron STS Finals Week spans March 6 – 12, 2025
Cost: None
The Regeneron Science Talent Search is one of the oldest and most prestigious science and mathematics competitions for high school seniors. It recognizes and rewards students who have demonstrated exceptional research skills and creativity through independent projects in the STEM fields. Participants submit their research projects online, with the top 40 finalists invited to present their work.
Finalists receive an all-expenses-paid trip to present their research to esteemed judges, compete for substantial scholarship awards, and engage with notable scientists and public figures. The top winner receives a $250,000 scholarship, with additional awards distributed among other finalists (such as $175,000 for second place and $150,000 for third place). The Regeneron STS provides significant financial support, recognition, and networking opportunities for budding scientists.
Application Deadline: Fall 2024 (Exact date TBA)
Location: Remote
Eligibility:
Must be 18 years or younger as of the application deadline
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in the U.S., or stationed overseas due to active U.S. military duty
Program Dates: All applicants are notified of a decision on or before July 15
Cost: None
The Davidson Fellows Scholarship is a prestigious program that awards scholarships of $10,000, $25,000, and $50,000 to 20+ highly gifted young individuals. Applicants must have completed a significant project in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, literature, music, philosophy, and “outside the box” innovations.
To be awarded this scholarship, experts must recognize this project as meaningful and capable of contributing positively to society. This can include new ideas with high impact, innovative solutions, or important advancements in their field.
Recipients of the Davidson Fellows Scholarship are honored at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., where they can present their projects and connect with other talented young individuals and professionals. The scholarship supports the academic and professional growth of these young scholars.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2024
Duration: The Coke Scholars Program application spans August 1-September 30, 2024.
Location: Atlanta, GA
Eligibility: High school seniors in the U.S.
Program Dates: Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend spans April 25-28, 2024
Cost: None
The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is a prestigious scholarship that rewards high school seniors in the United States for their academic achievements, leadership qualities, and dedication to community service. Each year, Coca-Cola awards 150 students a $20,000 scholarship to support their college education. This program emphasizes the importance of well-rounded individuals who excel academically and contribute positively to their communities.
Recipients of the Coca-Cola Scholars Program gain access to a vibrant alumni network, connecting with past scholars who have made an impact in various fields. The scholarship program fosters leadership development and community involvement, encouraging students to continue their commitment to making a difference. Recipients can participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend, a special event in which accepted students are the guests of honor at the annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and participate in the Coca-Cola Scholars Leadership Development Institute.
Application Deadline: Varies by regional fairs; typically held in late winter or early spring
Location: Remote
Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12 or equivalent must compete in a Regeneron ISEF-affiliated science fair and win the right to attend Regeneron ISEF
Program Dates: Students may present work that includes no more than 12 months of continuous research, and they may not include research performed more than 18 months before the Regeneron ISEF in which they will be competing. Local, regional, and state-affiliated fairs take place throughout the year, but all conclude by early April
Cost: None
The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair is the world's largest international pre-college science competition. Each year, it brings together over 1,800 high school students from more than 75 countries, regions, and territories to showcase their independent research projects. Participants compete in 21 different STEM categories, with the opportunity to win several awards and scholarships totaling over $9 million:
1st Award: $5,000 cash award
2nd Award: $2,000 cash award
3rd Award: $1,000 cash award
4th Award: $500 cash award
Along with many other Regeneron Top Rewards awards!
ISEF recognizes and rewards exceptional scientific talent and provides a platform for young scientists to interact with peers from around the globe. The week-long event includes public exhibitions of projects, networking opportunities with renowned scientists, and an awards ceremony.
This prestigious competition helps students gain recognition, build professional connections, and inspire future innovations in science and engineering.
Application Deadline: Varies by regional symposia; typically late winter or early spring
Location: Remote
Eligibility:
High school students in grades 9-12 who engage in research investigations in the sciences, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Program Dates: The next National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium will likely take place in early May 2025
Cost: None
The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium is a prestigious program designed to encourage high school students to engage in original STEM research and present their findings. JSHS is organized regionally and culminates in a national symposium. During the program, students compete for scholarships and recognition. Participants present their research through oral presentations and poster sessions, evaluated by a panel of judges consisting of experts in various STEM fields.
JSHS provides a platform for students to gain valuable feedback, network with peers and professionals, and develop their public speaking and presentation skills. Regional winners advance to the national symposium, where they compete for significant scholarships and awards. In addition to generous regional awards, a total of $192,000 in scholarships will be awarded at the national level:
Each of the 1st Place finalists receives $12,000
Each of the 2nd Place finalists receives $8,000
Each of the 3rd Place finalists receives $4,000
Application Deadline: Early December (Exact date TBA)
Location: Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!
Eligibility:
Must be currently enrolled in high school
Must demonstrate a high level of academic achievement (Note. students tend to have an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4)
Program Dates: Non-recipients will not be notified; the winner will most likely be notified in early January. The recipient must be available to speak at the 2024 Goddard Memorial Dinner
Cost: None
The National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholarship is awarded annually to a high school senior who demonstrates a passion for STEM and plans to pursue a career in this field. The scholarship provides a $10,000 award and the unique opportunity to deliver the keynote address at the National Space Club's annual Goddard Memorial Dinner, an event attended by top aerospace professionals, policymakers, and educators.
This prestigious scholarship gives its recipient significant exposure and recognition within the aerospace community. It encourages young scholars to further their education and contribute to advancing space exploration and technology. No prior knowledge is required to win this scholarship, so it’s definitely worth checking out!
Application Deadline: Early April (Exact date TBA)
Duration: Applications open in January
Location: Remote
Eligibility:
U.S. citizens
High school seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5
Must be planning to enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. four-year college or university in one of the following STEM majors:
Aerospace Engineering
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Electrical Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Mathematics
Physics
Cost: None
The Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship is designed to support high school seniors passionate about pursuing degrees in STEM fields.
Each year, up to 200 students are selected to receive $10,000 scholarships, which are renewable for up to three additional years, providing a total of $40,000 per student. This scholarship aims to increase the number of students from underrepresented groups in STEM and support their academic and professional development.
Recipients of the Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship also gain access to exclusive networking opportunities, mentoring, and potential internships with Lockheed Martin. This program connects students with industry leaders, helping pave the way for successful careers in STEM.
Application Deadline: December (Exact date TBA)
Duration: The applications open in October and will stay open through December
Location: Remote.
Eligibility:
U.S. citizens or permanent residents
High school seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0
Must be planning to pursue a degree in computer science, software engineering computer engineering, or other computer-related fields
Demonstrated financial need
Program Dates: Offer to complete a summer internship at Amazon
Cost: None
The Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship is a prestigious program that awards $40,000 scholarships to up to 400 high school seniors planning to pursue a degree in computer science or a related field.
In addition to the financial award, recipients are offered a guaranteed paid summer internship at Amazon after their freshman year of college. This program aims to support students from underserved communities and increase diversity in the tech industry.
The internship opportunity allows scholars to gain valuable industry insights, develop professional skills, and build a network within one of the world's leading technology companies.
Application Deadline: Mid-April (Exact date TBA) or when 1,250 eligible application responses are received
Location: Remote
Eligibility:
High school seniors who intend to enroll in a full-time bachelor's degree program at a recognized college or university in the U.S. or Canada
Must be planning to study computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field
Demonstrated financial need
Strong academic record and leadership demonstrated through extracurricular activities
Cost: None
The Generation Google Scholarship aims to help aspiring computer scientists excel in technology and become leaders in the field. The scholarship awards $10,000 to high school seniors from underrepresented groups who plan to pursue a degree in computer science or a related field.
In addition to the monetary award, scholarship recipients gain access to the Google community and resources, including an invitation to attend the annual Google Scholars' Retreat. This retreat provides networking opportunities with peers, Google engineers, and industry professionals, providing valuable connections within the tech industry..
Our Thoughts
STEM scholarships play a crucial role in supporting the new generation of innovators and leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. They provide essential financial aid that enables students to pursue their passions and academic goals without the burden of financial constraints. Additionally, these scholarships often offer unique opportunities for mentorship, internships, and networking, which are invaluable for professional development. By investing in these young minds, STEM scholarships help cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce that can tackle the challenges of the future.
One other option – the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you are interested in doing university-level research in STEM or other subjects, which can become a topic to talk about in your college application, then you could also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Lydia is currently a junior at Harvard University, studying Molecular and Cellular Biology and Economics. In high school, she was the captain of her high school’s Academic Decathlon team and attended the Governor's School of Engineering and Technology. She aims to become a life sciences consultant after graduation.
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