Introduction
STEM Scholarships for International Students in the USA – The United States is a leading destination for students pursuing degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). To attract talented individuals from around the world, many institutions and organizations offer scholarships specifically for international students in these fields. This guide explores some of the top STEM scholarships available, detailing eligibility, benefits, and the application process.
1. Microsoft Research Women’s Fellowship Program
The Microsoft Research Women’s Fellowship Program aims to increase the number of women pursuing PhDs in computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics.
Eligibility:
- Must identify as a woman.
- Enrolled in a PhD program in computer science, electrical engineering, or mathematics at an eligible university.
- Demonstrate academic excellence.
Benefits:
- $20,000 award.
- Networking opportunities with Microsoft researchers.
How to Apply: Applications are typically open from October to January. Visit the Microsoft Research website for detailed application procedures.
2. AAUW International Fellowships
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) offers fellowships for women who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents to pursue full-time graduate or postdoctoral study in the USA in STEM fields.
Eligibility:
- Must have citizenship in a country other than the USA.
- Hold an academic degree equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
- Intend to return to their home country to pursue a professional career.
Benefits:
- $18,000 for Master’s/first professional degree.
- $20,000 for doctoral degree.
- $30,000 for postdoctoral research.
How to Apply: Applications open in August and close in November. Visit the AAUW website for detailed application procedures.
3. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships
The Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future program supports women from developing countries to pursue PhD or postdoctoral studies in STEM at leading universities worldwide.
Eligibility:
- Female applicants from developing and emerging economies.
- Demonstrate leadership qualities, academic excellence, and a commitment to teaching and community involvement.
Benefits:
- Up to $50,000 per year for PhD courses.
- Up to $40,000 per year for postdoctoral research.
How to Apply: Applications open in September and close in November. Visit the Schlumberger Foundation website for detailed application procedures.
4. Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship
The Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship aims to encourage women to excel in computing and technology and become active role models and leaders in the field.
Eligibility:
- Identify as a female student.
- Currently enrolled at an accredited university for the academic year.
- Studying computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field.
Benefits:
- $10,000 scholarship.
- Invitation to attend the annual Google Scholars’ Retreat.
How to Apply: Applications open in January and close in April. Visit the Google Scholarship website for detailed application procedures.
5. IBM PhD Fellowship Awards Program
The IBM PhD Fellowship Awards Program recognizes and supports outstanding PhD students in technology-related fields.
Eligibility:
- Full-time PhD students in computer science, electrical engineering, cyber security, and related fields.
- Demonstrate academic excellence, innovative research, and collaboration with IBM.
Benefits:
- Fellowship worth up to $60,000.
- Mentorship and internship opportunities with IBM researchers.
How to Apply: Applications are typically open from September to November. Visit the IBM PhD Fellowship website for detailed application procedures.
6. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP)
The NSF GRFP provides fellowships to graduate students in STEM fields who are pursuing research-based Master’s and doctoral degrees.
Eligibility:
- U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents.
- Pursuing a research-based Master’s or doctoral degree in STEM or STEM education.
Benefits:
- Three years of financial support.
- Annual stipend of $34,000.
- Cost of Education allowance of $12,000.
How to Apply: Applications open in August and close in October. Visit the NSF GRFP website for detailed application procedures.
7. Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships
SWE offers scholarships to women pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering, engineering technology, and computer science.
Eligibility:
- Female students enrolled in ABET-accredited programs in engineering, engineering technology, or computer science.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and financial need.
Benefits:
- Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $15,000.
How to Apply: Applications open in December and close in February. Visit the SWE website for detailed application procedures.
8. NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP)
The NPP offers fellowships for postdoctoral research in NASA-related STEM fields.
Eligibility:
- Hold a PhD or equivalent degree in a relevant STEM field.
- Demonstrate a record of academic excellence and research potential.
Benefits:
- Annual stipend starting at $60,000.
- Relocation allowance.
- Health insurance.
How to Apply: Applications are accepted year-round with three annual review cycles. Visit the NASA NPP website for detailed application procedures.
9. American Geophysical Union (AGU) Scholarships
AGU offers several scholarships for students pursuing degrees in geophysics and related fields.
Eligibility:
- Enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in geophysics or related fields.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and research potential.
Benefits:
- Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $10,000.
How to Apply: Application deadlines vary by scholarship. Visit the AGU website for detailed information.
10. Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Scholarship
ISEF offers scholarships for high school students who demonstrate exceptional talent in science and engineering.
Eligibility:
- High school students from around the world.
- Participate in the Intel ISEF competition.
Benefits:
- Scholarships ranging from $500 to $75,000.
- Internship opportunities with Intel.
How to Apply: Participate in ISEF-affiliated science fairs. Visit the Intel ISEF website for more information.
Conclusion
STEM scholarships in the USA provide significant financial support to international students, allowing them to pursue their academic and professional goals. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria and benefits, so it’s important to carefully review and apply for those that align with your qualifications and aspirations. Start your application process early, stay organized, and take advantage of these opportunities to study in the USA. Good luck!
