Top 10 Scholarships for Science and Engineering Majors

Majoring in science or engineering is a remarkable journey—brimming with challenges, innovation, and opportunities to change the world. Whether your passion lies in unraveling the mysteries of the universe, engineering groundbreaking technologies, or finding sustainable solutions for global challenges, education is the key to unlocking your potential. 

But let’s face it: tuition, lab fees, and research costs can add up quickly.

That’s where scholarships come in. Beyond financial relief, scholarships recognize your hard work, talent, and vision. They’re an investment in your future, helping you turn your aspirations into achievements. Whether you’re a high school senior launching into STEM studies, a college junior diving deep into engineering, or a Ph.D. candidate advancing pharmaceutical research, there’s a scholarship tailored to your journey.

Applying for scholarships can be competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out. 

• Tailor your application to highlight how your goals align with the scholarship’s mission. 
• Focus on achievements that showcase leadership, innovation, and dedication to STEM fields. 
• Don’t forget to proofread your essays and get feedback—clarity and authenticity matter as much as your technical accomplishments. 

Here’s a bonus tip: for STEM scholarships, emphasize specific projects or research that reflects your passion and potential to contribute to your field.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best scholarships for science and engineering students. These opportunities not only lighten the financial burden but also connect you with communities of fellow innovators and enhance your résumé. 

So, grab your lab coat, fire up your calculator, and let’s explore these fantastic options to fund your future.

• Award: Varies
• Eligibility: Material Advantage student member, major in metallurgy or materials science engineering (related fields considered with strong interest in materials science), junior or senior standing at a North American university with an accredited program.

This scholarship targets students who excel in metallurgy or materials science. Besides offering financial aid, it recognizes individuals with strong academic performance and a passion for the advancement of the field. It is normally awarded to distinguished applicants who have contributed to research and innovation in materials science.

• Award: Up to $45,000
• Eligibility: Women returning to physics research after an interruption, U.S. or Canadian citizenship or residency, completed Ph.D. work, and institutional affiliation during the grant tenure.

This fellowship provides support to women who are returning to physics research careers after a break. It covers necessary expenses like dependent care, travel, equipment, and tuition that allow women to resume their rightful place in the scientific community and work on projects with significant impact.

• Award: $6,000 to $10,000 per year
• Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have completed three semesters of Ph.D. study in pharmaceutical sciences, and have no more than three years remaining for degree completion.

This fellowship supports advanced doctoral students in pharmaceutical sciences. Funds can be flexibly used for stipends, research supplies, books, and travel. This allows recipients to focus on completing their dissertations and furthering pharmaceutical innovation.

• Award: $15,000
• Eligibility: College sophomore or higher, majoring in engineering, natural/applied sciences, or math, nominated by faculty, and attending one of 40 participating colleges.

Created to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders, this prestigious scholarship acknowledges students with excellent grades, creativity, and research potential. While called the Astronaut Scholarship, it is actually open to students from a wide variety of STEM disciplines who seek to contribute to scientific and engineering developments.

• Award: $5,000
• Eligibility: Woman, U.S. citizen, entering junior year, NSPE Student Member and enrolled in a four-year engineering program.

This scholarship is especially important to provide critical leverage for women seeking engineering degrees. It provides not just necessary tuition assistance but shows how essential it is for the profession of engineering to advance the next wave of leaders in a field that has been traditionally male-dominated. 

• Award: $5,000 annually
• Eligibility: High school seniors or college students with an engineering major, demonstrated financial need through FAFSA, STEM activities, or mentoring experience.

This scholarship rewards students committed to serving as active mentors or working on actual projects in science, technology, engineering, or math. This scholarship wishes to encourage students in the building and construction of science and engineering and eliminate economic obstacles along the way.

• Award: $5,000 annually, renewable for up to two years
• Eligibility: U.S. resident, high school senior, or college student, 3.75+ GPA, and pursuing an engineering or related science degree in an accredited program.

This scholarship is given to those students who demonstrate excellence in academics and a commitment to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The renewable award allows recipients to focus on long-term academic and career goals without financial stress.

• Award: $1,000 per year 
• Eligibility: High school senior or college student, 3.75+ GPA, pursuing an engineering degree, and involved in leadership activities.

Recognizing leadership along with academic merit, this scholarship helps students who demonstrate influential roles in their communities or schools. The award emphasizes the development of leadership skills hand in hand with technical knowledge in engineering studies. 

• Award: $1,500
• Eligibility: The student must be pursuing a degree in a science-related field.

The scholarship supports the education of would-be scientists, inspiring them in the study of the sciences. It is granted twice each year, supporting curiosity, creativity, and commitment to scientific research.

• Award: $1,500
• Eligibility: The student must be pursuing a degree in a science-related field.

This scholarship nurtures innovation in the life sciences by providing financial support to students who are interested in research. It allows them to further their scientific interests and contribute to the advancement of biology and other related fields.

• Award: Up to $7,500 per year for tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate sophomores and juniors studying natural sciences, engineering, or mathematics.

This prestigious award, established in honor of Senator Barry Goldwater, is aimed at fostering the next generation of research leaders in STEM fields. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic merit and a clear commitment to pursuing research careers in their chosen discipline. Many recipients go on to achieve groundbreaking success in academia and industry, making this scholarship a critical stepping stone for aspiring scientists and engineers

• Award: A three-year annual stipend of $37,000 and a $12,000 education allowance.
• Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing research-based master's or doctoral degrees in STEM disciplines.

NSF Fellows are widely recognized for their contributions to research and innovation. This fellowship supports outstanding graduate students committed to advancing knowledge in STEM fields. Beyond the financial benefits, recipients gain access to professional development resources, networking opportunities, and the prestige of being part of an elite community of researchers driving transformative discoveries.

• Award: Varies, with some awards exceeding $10,000.
• Eligibility: Female undergraduate and graduate students in engineering, technology, and computing.

SWE scholarships support women breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. The program is designed to reward academic achievement and leadership potential while empowering women to excel in engineering and technology careers. SWE also provides mentorship and career services, ensuring recipients have the tools to thrive in their studies and beyond.

• Award: Up to $250,000 for up to five years.
• Eligibility: Graduate students in applied physical, biological sciences, and engineering.

This highly competitive fellowship is more than just financial support—it offers personalized mentorship and resources to help recipients tackle critical challenges facing society. Hertz Fellows are selected for their exceptional creativity, technical prowess, and leadership potential. Many go on to pioneer breakthroughs in science and engineering, shaping the future of their fields.

• Award: Full tuition, annual stipends, health insurance, and a post-graduation job.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students in STEM disciplines willing to work for the U.S. Department of Defense after graduation.

The SMART Scholarship combines education funding with guaranteed employment, making it an ideal choice for students seeking stability and purpose in their careers. Participants engage in cutting-edge research and development projects that directly contribute to national security, gaining valuable experience and a sense of pride in their work.

• Award: Ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
• Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing nuclear science, technology, or engineering.

ANS scholarships are tailored for students passionate about advancing nuclear technology for a sustainable future. Recipients join a dedicated community of professionals working on cutting-edge solutions in energy, medicine, and environmental protection, gaining insights and opportunities to contribute to impactful projects.

• Award: Full tuition, stipends, and professional development opportunities.
• Eligibility: Underrepresented minority students pursuing graduate degrees in engineering and science.

Promotes diversity and inclusion in STEM by providing comprehensive support to underrepresented students, including financial assistance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. The program aims to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to thrive in their fields and contribute innovative perspectives to the STEM community.

It’s wonderful that there are so many scholarships out there. However, with so many scholarships available, it’s essential to focus your efforts on those best aligned with your background and goals. You probably don’t need to apply to every single one on this list. Consider your field of study, academic standing, financial need, and career aspirations.

For example, if you’re pursuing advanced research, look into prestigious fellowships like the Hertz Fellowship or NSF GRFP. High-achieving undergraduates should explore awards like the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, while those with financial need can benefit from options like the Donald and Barbara Mozley Scholarship. 

Why does the step-by-step method make a difference? Ultimately, just like in science, strategizing your applications will both save time and increase your chances of success.

The world needs bold thinkers, innovators, and creators—and the right scholarship can help you become one of them. These opportunities are more than just financial aid; they’re stepping stones to help you focus on what really matters: learning, discovering, and making an impact. Scholarship applications may take time and effort, but the payoff can lead to cutting-edge research opportunities and game-changing projects.

Beyond financial aid, scholarships offer invaluable networking opportunities. Many programs connect recipients with professionals, mentors, and like-minded peers in their field. For example, SWE scholarships provide access to career services and a supportive community of women in engineering, while Hertz Fellows benefit from personalized mentorship. These connections can open doors to internships, research collaborations, and even career-defining opportunities.

Need help navigating the application process? That's where Empowerly comes in. Our team of experts will guide you through every step of your college journey—from crafting standout essays to identifying the best opportunities for your goals. If you’re ready to turn your aspirations into achievements, let Empowerly help you take the first step today!