The Best Science Scholarships with Upcoming Deadlines in 2024

About science scholarships

A science degree gives students a strong foundation across various subcategories of the field. Students pursuing a degree in science could possibly take mathematics courses or degree requirements in biology or chemistry. Because of its various applications to today's real-world problems, a science degree is highly sought after, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that jobs in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field are projected to grow 8% by 2029.

However, while women make up nearly half of the U.S. labor market, only 27% of the STEM workforce is female, and girls and women have systematically pulled away from STEM during their early years of education. Not only is there still a wide gender gap in STEM, but black and Latinx individuals only make up around 5-8% of the industry's workforce, and Native Americans and Indigenous groups are even lower at around 1% — further emphasizing a need for scholarship programs and resources for the next generation of STEM professionals.

Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in science have many options for post-graduate life, including more studies in the field or working in an occupation that doesn't require more education such as being a science policy analyst, research assistant, or grant administrator/program officer. Attending graduate school might be a requirement for certain occupations, such as a computational astrophysicist, epidemiologist, or medical doctor. Awarding students with the financial assistance needed to pursue a degree in life sciences or physics is key to their professional development and the bettering of the society these students will serve after graduation.

What is a science scholarship?

A science scholarship will vary by school or scholarship program and is awarded to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in a scientific field like biological sciences, chemistry, or physics. Students studying biological sciences, physics, or pursuing graduate studies are qualified for these scholarships, which do not need to be paid back.

In 2015-2016, 330,000 students were pursuing degrees in STEM and the number continues to rise, warranting the need for scholarships to provide financial assistance to students and eliminate that barrier. Full-time students who demonstrate academic excellence are eligible for financial aid and must maintain any academic requirements if the scholarship requires it.

Scholarships for students majoring in science are meant to encourage students to achieve their career and academic goals, eliminating the financial barrier that would prevent them from doing so otherwise. Not only is the cost of attending college increasing, but so is the amount of student loan debt that college students graduate with, which could possibly hinder them from pursuing a graduate or doctoral degree. Graduating seniors who have successfully completed a bachelor's degree and want to further pursue their education in other science fields might want to seek out financial aid that they now need for another degree.

Private loans and federal loans are options to fund your studies, however, there are plenty of options to find money that you won't need to pay back, such as science scholarships. The costs of attending college or university should not be a barrier for any student seeking a science education, and scholarship programs are working toward making higher education accessible for all.

Furthermore, each scholarship program is different, so any student should be able to find one. Some scholarships may be awarded annually to outstanding graduate students studying psychology, engineering or cybersecurity, while others may be for high school students planning to study biology at an accredited college. Additionally, scholarships can be funded by a variety of sources, from the National Science Foundation to individual donors. Whatever the case, be sure to conduct research to find the right scholarship program for you.

Can you get a scholarship for science?

Yes, it is possible to receive a scholarship for science. Both need-based and merit scholarships are available to prospective and current science students, including graduate students. Several national and professional science organizations and associations like the National Science Foundation and the Alaska Space Grant Program offer science scholarships and funding to qualified students and members. The National Science Foundation offers funding and scholarships that are awarded annually to students, including undergraduate students or those in a graduate program, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the length of the research project. The Alaska Space Grant Program operates similarly as a consortium of public and private universities that fund graduate fellowships and academic assistance to qualified recipients for conducting research or attending school.

Fortunately, Bold.org has exclusive scholarships for students attending university, helping to take some of the financial responsibility off their shoulders. New scholarships are added every day, supplying various scholarship opportunities for future scientists and students passionate about careers in STEM. For high school students, undergraduates, and graduate students alike, Bold.org has plenty to choose from.

Check out these engineering scholarships to maximize your scholarship awards!

How to apply for science scholarships

Once you've found a scholarship for science students that you'd like to apply for, you can create a free account on Bold.org and get started! Scholarships may be categorized by education level, major, and/or location, so be sure to adjust the filters as needed. In addition to your Bold.org profile, some scholarships will require an essay prompt or other submission as part of the application.

How to get a science scholarship

The scholarship application process will differ based on the scholarship program, with some scholarship programs requiring transcripts or test scores to see that the applicant is in good academic standing, or perhaps provide a written sample. Some scholarships might want students to demonstrate their knowledge of science education in practice with an essay prompt.

As with any other scholarship program, it is important to get started on the scholarship application process early on so that you can gather any necessary materials, like transcripts or letters of recommendation, and get started on any writing required for the application.

Best science scholarships

To combat rising college costs, Bold.org offers an extensive list of scholarships available to science students. In addition to broad scholarships open to all students, there are plenty of scholarships for students interested in particular fields, such as STEM, education, or healthcare.

Science scholarships for high school students

Rajesh Aggarwal Scholarship for Scientific Studies

This scholarship hopes to support high school juniors or seniors who are low-income and reside in Massachusetts or New Jersey. This $17,392 scholarship will assist the next great minds of science with financial assistance to attend a four-year college and continue nurturing their passion for science. Eligible applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or higher and reside in either one of the states previously mentioned to apply by June 29, 2022.

JoLynn Blanton Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support low-income high school senior or college student with a portion of financial aid for their college costs. The percentage of low-income students enrolling in college fell by 29% during the pandemic, and the cost of college continues to rise and leaves a group of students unable to afford higher education or with student loan debt. Eligible students may apply for the $700 scholarship by July 1, 2022.

Future Leaders in Technology Scholarship - High School Award

This scholarship aims to support high school students who identify as Black or African American, Hispanic or Latinx, American Indian or Native American, LGBTQA+, or female, and are interested in a career in the technology industry. In an industry where Black and Hispanic workers only make up around 5-8% of the workforce, this $2,000 scholarship will allow students to pursue a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or data science and learn how to serve a remarkably diverse world. Eligible applicants may apply by July 4, 2022.

Bold Learning and Changing Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support high school students who are eager and dedicated to learning. This $500 scholarship will be awarded to a student who is seeking more growth and education, highlighting how higher education is crucial to their personal growth and to making positive change. Eligible applicants may apply by July 13, 2022.

Software Engineers Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student pursuing a degree in software engineering, computer science, or a related field. With the software engineering industry expected to grow 22% between 2019 and 2029, this $1,000 scholarship will uplift a student passionate about software, science, and technology and their application to today and the future. Eligible applicants may apply by July 15, 2022.

Jacob Daniel Dumas Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support two students in high school or an undergraduate program pursuing a STEM career. The $3,000 scholarship is part of the movement to encourage students to pursue STEM careers in an industry that is booming and projected to keep growing. Eligible applicants must live in North Carolina and are encouraged to apply by September 4, 2022.

Bold Science Matters Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a student interested in science and fascinated by scientific discoveries. With an increasing number of students enrolled in college and pursuing degrees in STEM, this $500 scholarship hopes to assist a student with the scholarship funds to achieve their dreams and goals in science. Eligible applicants may apply by September 14, 2022.

Scholarships for science majors

"Science for Life" Biology and Health Sciences No-Essay Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a student who is interested in biology or health sciences and is excited to join the next generation of great innovators. Because a career in biology and health sciences can require a large amount of education that could accumulate student debt, this $1,000 scholarship hopes to eliminate the financial barrier of attaining a biology or health sciences degree. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply by June 30, 2022.

Network After Work No-Essay Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support recent college graduates and graduate students with an exclusive network of leading professionals. The $1,000 scholarship will give scholarship recipients tools to develop a strong network and opportunities to grow as young professionals by meeting with entrepreneurs and executives virtually and in person. Eligible applicants may apply by July 1, 2022.

Stride Funding Affordable Tuition Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a student who is within two years of receiving a degree in STEM, healthcare, or business programs. The $1,000 scholarship offers a great alternative to student loans and would help students to take control of their finances. Eligible students are encouraged to apply by July 1, 2022.

Michael Delaney Sullivan Scholarship

This scholarship hopes to support two undergraduate students currently at a community college in California who are studying biology and have plans to transfer to a four-year college. With the rising cost of attending college, this $2,000 scholarship hopes to encourage community college students to continue their education at four-year institutions and work on research in molecular biology. Eligible applicants may apply by August 1, 2022.

Chris Jackson Computer Science Education Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a student pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science. Honoring Chris Jackson, a beloved dad and technology professional, the $5,000 scholarship will help undergraduate students who have the same passion as Chris did for technology and want to make an impact in the industry. Eligible applicants may apply by October 1, 2022.

Tony Alviani Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a high school senior or undergraduate who is or will pursue a business or computer science degree. Honoring Tony Alviani, a beloved dad, this $500 scholarship will help a student with financial need to pursue an undergraduate degree in their desired field. Eligible applicants must live in Pennsylvania to apply by October 2, 2022.

John Alfred Smythe Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support an undergraduate or graduate student who is passionate about materials science engineering and its application to real-world problems with technology, energy, manufacturing, and other disciplines. Honoring the life of Dr. John Alfred Smythe III, a Material Scientist whose career spanned 41 years, this $15,400 scholarship will help alleviate the financial barrier that comes with pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree. Qualified students may apply by November 1, 2022.

Barry Mullinax Wolfpack Engineering Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a undergraduate who attends North Carolina State University and is pursuing an engineering degree. Honoring Barry Mullinax, a beloved grandfather and nuclear engineer, this $500 scholarship hopes to relieve a portion of the cost of attending college for a student studying engineering. Eligible applicants may apply by December 1, 2022.

Scholarships for women in science

Minority/Women in STEM Scholarship

This scholarship hopes to support five students enrolled in an undergraduate program or who currently are high school seniors and are interested in pursuing careers in STEM. This $5,452 scholarship hopes to encourage first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students to follow their dreams without the financial barrier of paying for college applications or college costs. Applicants who are BIPOC and/or female high school seniors or undergraduates students who are FGLI and will pursue a STEM degree may apply by July 2, 2022.

Feltus Impact Fund Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support an undergraduate or graduate student who is working towards a degree in political science, STEM, or social science. Honoring the life and impact of Dr. Gere Feltus, this $7,000 scholarship will assist a female student in Texas who embodies the same devotion and leadership to community activism and the STEM field. Eligible students may apply by July 20, 2022.

Rho Brooks Women in STEM Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a female high school senior or current undergraduate student who will be in college in the fall of 2022 and plans on pursuing a STEM degree. With women only making up 27% of the STEM workforce, this $2,000 scholarship seeks to incentivize young women to pursue a degree in STEM and give them the resources to succeed. Eligible applicants may apply by July 30, 2022.

Learner Education Women in Mathematics Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support students of any education level who are studying math-related fields. This $1,000 scholarship highlights the importance of having women in the STEM industry and aims to provide a better future for women in math. Mathematics majors and other applicants studying a science-related field may apply by August 1, 2022.

Elevate Women in Technology Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a student with ambitions to work in the STEM field and uplift the next generation of female leaders in an underrepresented industry. This $500 scholarship will alleviate a portion of the financial barrier that women in tech may face and assist a student with pursuing their dreams and career aspirations. Eligible applicants may apply by October 31, 2022.

Virginia Jeanette Drummond Kissane Women in STEM Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support a female high school or undergraduate student majoring in a STEM field and who previously attended Girls Middle School of Palo Alto, California or Presentation High School of San Jose, California. Honoring Virginia Jeanette Drummond Kissane, a STEM educator for over 30 years, this $3,000 scholarship will help the next generation of female STEM professionals with their academic goals and career interest in a field like science or technology. Eligible applicants may apply by November 1, 2022.

Science scholarships for minorities

Gay's Den Scholar Award

This scholarship aims to support LGBTQ+ individuals in Florida who are excited to pursue their academic dreams and be their proud selves in and outside the classroom. With one-third of LGBTQ+ Americans facing discrimination every year, this $1,500 scholarship hopes to assist the class of 2022 high school graduates with the start of their college career by alleviating the financial barrier of attending college. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 to apply by June 30, 2022.

Coding for Minorities Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support students who belong to an underrepresented group and are passionate about coding as a form of expression. With minorities traditionally not having the resources or opportunity to pursue their passions, this $500 scholarship will help a student who exudes academic achievement achieve their goals for a career in coding or computer science. Eligible applicants may apply by July 1, 2022.

Future Leaders in Technology Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support college students who identify as Black or African American, Hispanic or Latinx, American Indian or Native American, LGBTQA+, or female, and are set to pursue a career in the tech industry. With this $2,500 scholarship, students can pursue their desired degree and start learning the foundation for working in an industry where the employment numbers for underrepresented groups are below 10%. Eligible applicants may apply by July 4, 2022.

Amelia Boynton and S.W. Boynton Scholarship

This scholarship aims to provide financial support to Black undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees. Black students complete their degrees at the lowest rate compared to other races and ethnicities — just 45.9% of Black students graduate in six years. Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply by July 15, 2022.

Glider Al-Omni Inclusive Allies of LGTBQ+ (GOAL+) Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support undergraduate students who identify as LGBTQ+ so they can pursue higher education and achieve their career goals. With more than a third of LGBTQ+ Americans facing discrimination every year, this $4,750 scholarship works to help eliminate these barriers and provide more opportunities and resources to uplift students as they pursue an undergraduate degree. Eligible applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or higher to apply by September 1, 2022.

Pride in Diversity Scholarship

This scholarship aims to support LGBTQ+ students enrolled in a STEM degree program who demonstrate financial need, whether it's high tuition costs, financial hardship, or medical costs related to transitioning. This $2,500 scholarship hopes to help further representation in the STEM field by awarding a student eager to pursue a degree at an accredited college. Eligible applicants may apply by October 12, 2022.

Frequently asked questions about science scholarships

How to find science scholarships

Finding scholarships for students pursuing a science education begins with a quick search on Bold.org's website. As previously mentioned, scholarships can be found by entering a keyword, or filtering by education level or category. Once you find a scholarship you qualify for, simply click "apply now" and follow the instructions.

In addition to looking specifically for science scholarships, another recommendation is to sort scholarships by degree type or career goals. If you're a college junior majoring in science or another field like biology, chemistry, or earth science, narrowing down your search by major could work as well. There is no limit to how many scholarships you can apply for or win on Bold.org, so start applying now!

If you're feeling stuck or don't know where to start, Bold.org has several ready-made scholarship categories and popular searches that students can browse through to find the best scholarship opportunities.

When can I start applying?

If you are a prospective student, it is recommended that you apply for scholarships as soon as possible and stay on top of deadlines early in the school year. High school students and high school seniors usually apply the summer before their incoming year. A majority of these scholarships will consider your application at the time that you are applying to college, but there are scholarships for any education level as well.

If you are already enrolled in a four-year degree program or if you are one of the many graduate students facing steep costs, it is still encouraged that you apply early and be cognizant of deadlines the summer before the academic year starts. Deadlines for college applications and standardized tests will also creep up on you, so in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed it's recommended that you apply as soon as possible.

Make sure to gather the necessary materials and information early on to avoid becoming overwhelmed - especially once the school year starts. If you are unable to find scholarships that early, don't worry! There are deadlines all throughout the year so there will be many scholarships still available outside of that window.

How do I know if I'm eligible for a scholarship?

You will know if you're eligible for a scholarship based on the requirements listed in the description. For instance, some scholarships are only for graduate students while others are only for students from North Carolina. Be sure to carefully read the eligibility requirements so you only apply to scholarships that you are eligible for. Each scholarship program differs and might have more requirements than others, so it's recommended you keep track of each scholarship and what you'll need to include on your application.

If you need to provide a personal essay or answer a series of essay questions, make sure to set aside the appropriate amount of time for you to complete the written materials and apply for the scholarships.