Based on a 2024 article from Virginia Tech, only 35% of the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) workforce is made up of women. In any given industry, diversity amongst the workforce, including racial, socioeconomic, and gender diversity, leads to more innovation. More women in STEM could add variety and new ideas for solutions to global issues.
The key to increasing the number of women in STEM is to provide equitable opportunities to access the field, including scholarships for women in stem. By helping to reduce financial barriers, they open doors for more women to pursue STEM degrees, and the number of these opportunities continues to grow every year. In this blog, we highlight top national scholarships as well as major-specific awards to help you get started on your search.
Top Scholarships for Women in STEM
For young women pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, scholarships can make a huge difference in reducing the financial burden of college. Below are some of the top scholarships for women in STEM, including both general awards and major-specific opportunities.
STEM Scholarships for Women
- Science Ambassador Scholarship – A full-tuition scholarship funded by Cards Against Humanity for women pursuing STEM degrees. Applicants must submit a video explaining a STEM topic they’re passionate about.
- BHW Scholarship – Awards $3,000 to women pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees in STEM fields.
- Women at Microsoft Scholarship – Offers financial support and mentorship to high school seniors who identify as women or non-binary and are interested in technology and STEM careers.
- AAUW Fellowships – The American Association of University Women funds fellowships for women pursuing graduate degrees, with a focus on underrepresented fields in STEM.
- Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship – Offers $10,000 scholarships to female students committed to advancing in STEM fields.
- Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship – Awards up to $4,000 to women majoring in engineering, math, or biological/physical sciences.
Scholarships for Women in Science
- Association for Women in Science (AWIS) – Provides multiple scholarships for women in various science disciplines, including awards for first-gen students and career re-entry.
- Women in Science Scholarship – Awards $10,000 to women entering their final year of undergrad in atmospheric, oceanic, or climate sciences.
- ABC Humane Wildlife Academic Scholarship – Provides $1,000 to women focused on biodiversity, environmental science, or animal conservation.
Scholarships for Women in Technology
- Google Women Techmakers Scholarships – Encourages women to pursue excellence in computing and technology; includes both financial support and community-building opportunities.
- (ISC)² Women in Information Security Scholarship – Offers up to $10,000 for women in cybersecurity and related fields.
- Nutanix Advancing Women in Technology Scholarship – Open to women worldwide, with awards ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 for students passionate about tech.
- Buildium Women in Technology Scholarship – Provides $2,500 to undergrad and grad students pursuing technology degrees.
- Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship – Supports women in their early tech careers through funding and mentorship.
Scholarships for Women in Engineering
- Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships – Awards millions annually to women in engineering, computer science, and tech at all education levels.
- Alpha Omega Epsilon National Foundation Scholarship – For women promoting engineering and technical science; available to active A.O.E. members.
- Women in Aerospace Foundation Scholarship – Awards $2,000 to women pursuing careers in aerospace engineering or science.
- IEEE Frances B. Hugle Scholarship – Recognizes women pursuing degrees in electrical or computer engineering.
Scholarships for Women in Math
- Alice T. Schafer Mathematics Prize – Honors undergraduate women for outstanding achievement in mathematics.
- Faye Hilgart Women in Mathematics and Math Education Scholarship – Awards women in Minnesota and Wisconsin pursuing careers in math or math education.
How to Be a Competitive Applicant for Scholarships for Women in STEM
If you’re a high school student hoping to earn scholarships for women in STEM, here are a few key strategies to strengthen your application:
- Maintain a strong GPA – Aim for top grades, especially in your math and science courses. A solid academic foundation shows scholarship committees that you’re prepared for the rigor of a STEM degree.
- Gain hands-on STEM experience – Join STEM-related clubs, attend summer programs, pursue internships, or get involved in research. Demonstrating a real commitment to STEM beyond the classroom can help you stand out.
- Build strong relationships with STEM teachers – Participate actively in class and seek opportunities to engage with your teachers. When the time comes to request recommendation letters, you’ll want advocates who can speak confidently about your dedication and potential.
- Craft a compelling scholarship essay – Use your essay to highlight your accomplishments, career goals, and passion for STEM. Make sure your writing is clear, authentic, and free of grammar mistakes. Make sure to set aside time to edit your essay and ask someone you trust to review it before submitting.
Conclusion
These scholarships for women in STEM offer not only financial relief but also encouragement, networking, and mentorship that can shape your college experience and career path. While this list is a great starting point, there are many more opportunities out there—especially when you dig into scholarships by major, region, or identity.
Applying for scholarships for women in STEM can be competitive, but with the right preparation, you can give yourself a strong advantage. At HelloCollege, we offer expert guidance not just for scholarships, but for every step of the college application process. Book a free consultation today to learn how our expert counselors can help you reach your goals in STEM and beyond.
