What Are the Best STEM Scholarships Available in the USA This Year 2025?

Top STEM Scholarships in the USA (2025–2026): Discover the most prestigious and high-value scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and math. Learn eligibility, benefits, and application tips.

Explore the best STEM scholarships in the USA for engineering, computer science, and technology students in 2025.

Introduction

Pursuing a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in the United States can open doors to some of the most exciting careers, but the cost of higher education often poses a significant challenge. Thankfully, there are numerous STEM scholarships available in the USA that can dramatically ease the financial burden for both domestic and international students. Whether you’re aiming for undergraduate studies or advanced graduate research, STEM scholarships in the U.S. are designed to reward academic excellence, diversity, innovation, and leadership.

In this article, we’ll explore the top STEM scholarships available in the USA this year, covering both undergraduate and graduate opportunities. We’ll detail eligibility, award amounts, benefits, and strategies to strengthen your application. This deep dive also includes frequently asked questions (FAQs) and relevant SEO tags to help you navigate and share this guide effectively.

Why STEM Scholarships Matter

1. High Cost of STEM Education: STEM degrees often involve rigorous curricula, lab fees, and additional resources, making them expensive. Scholarships help students focus on learning instead of financing.
2. Encouraging Innovation: Many STEM scholarships reward students not just for grades but for research potential, leadership, and innovation, helping to cultivate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and technologists.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: Several programs specifically support underrepresented groups in STEM (women, minorities, first-generation college students), creating more equitable access to STEM careers.
4. Strategic Career Opportunities: Some scholarships are tied to internships or employment (e.g., with the U.S. Department of Defense), which can serve as launch pads for future professional opportunities.
5. Prestige and Networking: Winning a prestigious STEM scholarship enhances your academic and professional profile and connects you to a network of scholars, mentors, and research institutions.

Top STEM Scholarships in the USA (2025–2026)

Here are some of the most notable STEM scholarships available in the USA this year. These span undergraduate, graduate, and specialized opportunities.

1. NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)

• Description: One of the most prestigious STEM fellowships in the U.S., funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). It supports graduate students (master’s and PhD) in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
• Award: Approximately $37,000 annual stipend plus a cost-of-education allowance (~$12,000) for three years.
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents pursuing research-based graduate degrees in STEM.
• Application Requirements: Research proposal, personal statement, transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.
• Why It Matters: Highly flexible (you can use it at any accredited institution), prestigious, and enables students to focus on research without financial pressure.

2. NSF S-STEM Program

• Description: A scholarship program by NSF tailored toward undergraduates, especially those from underrepresented or financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Award: At some institutions (e.g., Northern Arizona University), S-STEM scholars receive up to $10,000 per year to cover unmet financial need.
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, nationals (or refugees) enrolled full-time in a STEM BS degree program; must demonstrate financial need (e.g., via FAFSA) and maintain a minimum GPA (e.g., 3.0 at NAU).
• Additional Benefits: Mentorship, peer support, research seminars, internships, professional development, and career services.
• Application Deadline: Varies by institution; for NAU, the deadline was May 31, 2025 for the 2025–2026 academic year.

3. Barry Goldwater Scholarship

• Description: A distinguished undergraduate scholarship aimed at students committed to research careers in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering.
• Award: Up to $7,500 per academic year (for one or two years).
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents, typically sophomores or juniors, with a strong research background or potential, and nominated by their institution.
• Application Requirements: Research essay, transcripts, recommendation letters, and institutional nomination.
• Why It Matters: Very competitive; a Goldwater Scholarship is a strong signal of research potential and often paves the way to graduate funding.

4. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships

• Description: The Society of Women Engineers offers a large number of scholarships (over 260) to women pursuing engineering, computer science, or technology-related degrees.
• Award: Ranges from $1,000 to $15,000, depending on the specific award.
• Eligibility: Women enrolled in or planning to enroll in ABET-accredited engineering, engineering technology, or computer science programs.
• Application Requirements: Essays, recommendations, transcripts, and financial documentation (such as FAFSA).
• Why It Matters: Supports diversity in engineering, offers not only financial aid but also mentorship, professional development, and networking opportunities.

5. Department of Defense (DoD) SMART Scholarship

• Description: Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) is a scholarship-for-service program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense.
• Award: Full tuition coverage, a generous stipend ($25,000–$38,000 depending on degree level), summer internships at DoD facilities, and guaranteed full-time employment after graduation.
• Eligibility: U.S. citizens studying in STEM disciplines at accredited U.S. institutions; minimum GPA (often 3.0) and a commitment to work for the DoD after graduation.
• Why It Matters: Not only provides financial support but also real-world experience and a clear career path after graduation.

6. Google/Lime Scholarship & Other Google Scholarships

• Description: Google offers several STEM scholarships, especially for students from underrepresented backgrounds in computer science and related fields.
• Award: Typically ranges from $5,000 to $10,000 (varies by scholarship program).
• Eligibility: Student majoring in computer science or related technical field; academic excellence; underrepresented background; some Google scholarships are for high school seniors, undergraduates, or graduates.
• Additional Benefits: Mentorship, workshops, Google internship opportunities.
• Why It Matters: Helps build a pipeline into tech companies, provides financial aid and professional networks.

7. Microsoft STEM Scholarships

• Description: Microsoft supports students in STEM, with special scholarships for diversity, disability, or strong academic merit.
• Examples:
  • Microsoft Disability Scholarship: For students with disabilities planning to major in STEM fields.
  • Diversity Scholarships: For underrepresented groups in computer science and engineering.
• Award: e.g., the Disability Scholarship gives $20,000 total (renewable $5,000/year) per some sources.
• Eligibility: U.S. citizen or permanent resident; enrolled or planning to enroll in STEM major; demonstrated need or strong merit.
• Why It Matters: Combines financial aid with potential internship and career pathways at Microsoft.

8. GMiS (Great Minds in STEM) Scholarship

• Description: The GMiS Scholars Program is designed to support underrepresented Hispanic and Latino students in STEM disciplines, providing both merit-based and other scholarship awards.
• Award: Ranges from $500 to $5,000 for merit-based; non-merit-based awards are lower as well.
• Eligibility: Pursuing a STEM degree; minimum GPA requirement (e.g., 3.0 for merit-based); underrepresented community involvement; enrolled in or applying to a U.S. institution.
• Why It Matters: Specifically supports Hispanic/Latino students in STEM, promoting diversity and persistence in STEM higher education.

9. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)

• Description: A highly prestigious science
• Award: Finalists and winners receive substantial awards; in past years, top awards have ranged from $25,000 to $250,000.
• Eligibility: High school seniors in the U.S. who have conducted original research and can present a research paper.
• Application Requirements: Research paper, essays, transcripts, recommendations, possibly interviews.
• Why It Matters: Offers huge financial incentives, recognition, and a launchpad for future academic and research opportunities.

10. AAUW International Fellowships (with STEM Emphasis)

• Description: The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships to women from outside the U.S. who are pursuing STEM graduate degrees in the U.S.
• Award: For U.S. institutions – Master’s level: around $20,000; Doctoral level: around $25,000; Postdoctoral: higher.
• Eligibility: Non-U.S. women pursuing full-time STEM degrees in U.S. universities; strong academic record; research proposal; recommendation letters.
• Why It Matters: Helps international women fund advanced STEM degrees in the U.S., contributing to global diversity in STEM fields.

11. Generation Google Scholarship

• Description: A Google initiative to support underrepresented students in computer science and related STEM fields.
• Award: Typically up to $10,000 for undergraduate students.
• Eligibility: High school seniors or undergraduate students planning to enroll in computer science or related technical majors; must demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and community involvement.
• Additional Benefits: Google mentorship, workshops, and potential internship opportunities.
• Why It Matters: Encourages diverse and talented students to pursue careers in technology, helps reduce the financial burden, and offers professional development.

12. Microsoft Diversity Scholarship Programs

• Description: Microsoft offers scholarships targeted at underrepresented groups in technology, including women, people of color, and students with disabilities.
• Award: Varies widely — can include partial or full tuition, stipend, or both.
• Eligibility: Varies by program; typically students majoring in CS, engineering, or tech-related fields; must demonstrate academic merit and possibly financial need.
• Why It Matters: Helps foster inclusion in the tech industry and supports students who may face systemic barriers.

How to Identify & Apply for STEM Scholarships

To maximize your chances of securing a STEM scholarship, consider the following strategies:

1. Start Early
   • Many scholarships have deadlines months (or even more than a year) before you start college or graduate school.
   • For high school STEM scholarships (like Regeneron), begin your research projects early so you have compelling work to present.
2. Research Thoroughly
   • Use scholarship databases and institutional websites (university financial aid pages) to find current STEM opportunities.
   • Verify eligibility criteria (citizenship, GPA, research experience, financial need) carefully before applying.
3. Prepare Strong Application Materials
   • Research Proposal: For scholarships like NSF GRFP, a clear, well-structured research proposal is crucial.
   • Essays Personal Statements: Highlight your passion for STEM, leadership, and future goals.
   • Letters of Recommendation: Reach out to professors, mentors, or supervisors who can speak to your academic and research potential.
   • Transcripts & Grades: High GPA helps, but also show rigorous coursework (AP classes, research).
   • Financial Documentation: For need-based scholarships (e.g., S-STEM), ensure that your FAFSA or other documents are in order.
4. Network & Seek Mentorship
   • Join STEM clubs, research groups, or university labs to gain experience.
   • Connect with past scholarship recipients or professors who can guide you through the application process.
5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships
   • Don’t rely on a single application. Apply for several scholarships that match your profile to increase your chances.
   • Include both small and large awards: even smaller scholarships can add up and relieve financial burden.
6. Leverage University Resources
   • Many universities have their own STEM-specific scholarship programs. Check the financial aid office, academic departments, and Honors programs.
   • Use campus writing centers or advisors to polish your essays and proposals.
7. Follow Up
   • After submitting, verify that all parts of your application (transcripts, letters, financial forms) have been received.
   • If selected for interviews (or further evaluation), prepare to discuss your goals, research, and motivations clearly.

Challenges & Tips for International Students

If you’re an international student interested in STEM scholarships in the U.S., here are some additional considerations:

• Limited Opportunities: Some scholarships (like NSF GRFP or DoD SMART) are restricted to U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Always confirm citizenship eligibility.
• Visa & Funding: Even if you’re eligible, make sure scholarship funds can be used under your student visa.
• Cost of Living: Scholarships often cover tuition, but living expenses (housing, health insurance, travel) are significant—budget for these.
• Application Competition: STEM scholarships are highly competitive. Strengthen your profile with research, internships, and extracurricular involvement.
• Language & Testing: Many U.S. universities require TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers, as well as GRE for graduate admissions; good scores may strengthen your application.
• Leverage Global Awards: In addition to U.S.-based STEM scholarships, consider international fellowships (like AAUW International Fellowships) that support study in U.S. STEM programs.

Future Trends in STEM Scholarships

When evaluating STEM scholarship opportunities, it’s useful to be aware of emerging trends and how the landscape is evolving:

1. Increased Focus on Diversity: More scholarships are being introduced to promote underrepresented groups in STEM (women, ethnic minorities, low-income students).
2. STEM + Social Impact: Programs increasingly emphasize projects that combine STEM with social good—sustainability, healthcare, education, and community development.
3. Hybrid & Remote Research Opportunities: With remote labs and distributed research, some funding bodies are offering more flexible research scholarship models.
4. Corporate Partnerships: Tech companies (Google, Microsoft, etc.) continue to expand scholarship programs tied to internships and mentorship, building pipelines for talent.
5. Government Initiatives: U.S. government agencies (NSF, DoD) may expand service-based scholarships, particularly in emerging areas like AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity.

Also Read: Which DAAD Scholarships Can International Students Apply for in 2025?

Sources

nsfgrfp.org

NSF – U.S. National Science Foundation

FAQs

Q1: Who is eligible for the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)?
A1: U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents who are enrolled (or plan to enroll) in a research-based master’s or doctoral STEM program.

Q2: Can international students apply for the NSF S-STEM scholarships?
A2: No, S-STEM scholarships funded by NSF are typically restricted to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or nationals who demonstrate financial need.

Q3: What kind of commitment is required for the DoD SMART Scholarship?
A3: SMART scholars must commit to working for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) after graduation; the exact service obligation depends on duration of support and degree level.

Q4: Are Google or Microsoft STEM scholarships based on need or merit?
A4: They are primarily merit-based, focusing on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to technology. Some programs may consider financial need or underrepresented status.

Q5: How competitive is the Barry Goldwater Scholarship?
A5: Very competitive. Applicants typically are sophomores or juniors deeply involved in research, with strong academic records and recommendations, because the scholarship aims to nurture future research leaders.

Q6: Can I apply for multiple STEM scholarships simultaneously?
A6: Yes. In fact, it’s highly recommended. Applying to multiple relevant scholarships (institutional, national, private) increases your chances of securing funding.

Q7: How do I find STEM scholarships specific to my university?
A7: Check your university’s financial aid office, department websites (e.g., engineering, computer science), Honors College, and student organizations. Many universities have internal STEM scholarship programs not easily found on broader scholarship portals.

Navigating the world of STEM scholarships in the USA can be challenging, but the rewards are considerable—especially given how expensive technical education can be. Whether you’re aspiring to be an undergraduate researcher or a doctoral candidate, there are excellent financial support systems designed to nurture your potential.

From the prestige and freedom of the NSF GRFP to the service-based opportunity of the DoD SMART Scholarship, and from diversity-focused awards like SWE Scholarships to corporate-backed programs from Google and Microsoft, the options are many and varied. The key is to strategize, prepare early, diversify your applications, and use your academic and personal achievements to stand out.

With thorough preparation and a strong application, one or more of these scholarships could transform your STEM education and career journey.