The gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields has been a long-standing issue, especially regarding gender inequality. Women are significantly underrepresented in these critical areas. However, various initiatives and scholarships aim to encourage women to pursue STEM careers. Scholarships not only provide financial assistance but also empower women to break barriers and achieve their dreams. Here are some key scholarships to apply for in 2024.
AAUW Selected Professions Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers the Selected Professions Fellowships, targeting women in underrepresented fields like architecture, computer/information sciences, engineering, and mathematics/statistics. These fellowships are aimed at women who have already attained a bachelor’s degree and are planning to pursue a master’s or a professional degree.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female candidate.
- Open to U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Should be enrolled in a full-time graduate program in one of the specified STEM fields.
Benefits
The fellowship provides funding ranging from $5,000 to $18,000, assisting with tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) offers numerous scholarships annually to both undergraduates and graduates who identify as women and are pursuing engineering degrees.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female candidate.
- Open to U.S. and international students.
- Must be enrolled or plan to enroll in an accredited engineering program for the upcoming academic year.
Benefits
Scholarship amounts range from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the specific scholarship and the recipient’s academic performance and financial need.
Google Women Techmakers Scholars Program
Google’s Women Techmakers Scholars Program provides financial support to women in computer science and related technical fields. This program not only includes a scholarship but also offers networking opportunities and a mentorship component to help scholars succeed.
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify as a female.
- Be currently enrolled or accepted in an accredited university program in computer science or a related field.
- Excellent academic record.
Benefits
Recipients receive a $10,000 scholarship for the academic year, along with invitations to a Google Scholars’ Retreat and the opportunity to join a global community of other female scholars.
Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship
Adobe Research’s Women-in-Technology Scholarship aims to bring more gender diversity to the technology industry. This scholarship is specifically designed for women pursuing degrees in computer science, electrical engineering, or similar fields.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female candidate.
- Enrolled in an undergraduate program or a graduate degree program.
- Studying computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field.
Benefits
The scholarship award includes a $10,000 annual scholarship, a one-year Creative Cloud subscription, and an opportunity to interview for an Adobe internship.
Microsoft Women in STEM Scholarship
Microsoft seeks to empower young women studying STEM subjects and thereby increase their representation in technology fields. The Women in STEM Scholarship is open to high school seniors and university students who identify as women.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female candidate.
- Be enrolled or plan to enroll in an undergraduate program for the upcoming academic year.
- Must be studying a STEM subject.
Benefits
Scholarship recipients receive $5,000 annually, which is renewable for up to four years. Additionally, recipients are often invited to participate in various Microsoft events and community outreach programs.
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship
Amazon’s Future Engineer Scholarship is geared towards high school seniors who are planning to pursue computer science or a related degree. It aims to help students from underserved and underrepresented communities, including women.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a high school senior.
- Plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, or other computer-related fields.
- Demonstrate financial need.
Benefits
Recipients receive $40,000 for four years of undergraduate study, along with the opportunity to complete a paid internship at Amazon.
L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship
L’Oréal USA’s For Women in Science Fellowship provides awards to women who conduct research in STEM fields. This fellowship is highly competitive and seeks to reward outstanding female scientists.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a female candidate.
- Hold a Ph.D. and be involved in postdoctoral research.
- Must demonstrate leadership abilities and a commitment to mentoring and public outreach.
Benefits
Awardees receive a $60,000 fellowship, along with opportunities for professional development and networking.
National Physical Science Consortium Graduate Fellowship
The National Physical Science Consortium Graduate Fellowship is specifically designed to support women and minority students pursuing advanced degrees in physical sciences and related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to female and minority students.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Be enrolled or accepted into a graduate program in a NPSC member institution.
Benefits
The fellowship provides up to $20,000 per year in financial support for up to six years. Additionally, it includes summer internships with government agencies and industrial partners.
Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship
Named in honor of the influential computer scientist Anita Borg, Google’s Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship supports women in technology who are pursuing degrees in computer science and related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify as a female.
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- Maintain a strong academic record.
Benefits
Recipients receive $10,000 for the academic year. Scholars also get the chance to attend the annual Google Scholars’ Retreat, which includes workshops, discussions, and networking events.
Facebook Grace Hopper Scholarship
The Facebook Grace Hopper Scholarship is aimed at supporting women in technology and allows many recipients to attend the Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing, one of the largest gatherings of women technologists.
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify as a female.
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in computer science or a related field.
- Exhibit leadership qualities and a passion for technology.
Benefits
The scholarship covers travel expenses, registration, and lodging for the Grace Hopper Celebration. It also provides opportunities for networking and professional development.
Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship
Palantir’s Women in Technology Scholarship aims to encourage women to pursue careers in technology by providing financial support and fostering a community of women technologists.
Eligibility Criteria
- Identify as a female.
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate program in a STEM field.
- Demonstrate a passion for technology and problem-solving.
Benefits
Awardees receive a $7,000 scholarship and an invitation to the Palantir headquarters for a full-day workshop including technical interviews, presentations, and networking with Palantir engineers.
Conclusion
Empowering women in STEM is crucial for achieving gender equality and driving innovation. These scholarships play a vital role in encouraging talented women to overcome financial barriers and societal challenges in their pursuit of STEM careers. By providing not just financial aid but also networking opportunities, mentorship, and professional development, these scholarships help pave the way for the next generation of female leaders in STEM.
Each of the mentioned scholarships offers unique advantages, from financial support to professional growth opportunities. Women who are passionate about STEM fields should explore these options and apply, enabling them to open doors to incredible opportunities and resources. The future of STEM is bright, and with continued support, women can lead the way.
