How to Apply for the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program

Are you a woman who loves chemistry and wants to make a difference in the world? Do you dream of becoming a scientist, engineer, teacher, or leader in the chemical sciences and related fields? If so, you may be eligible for the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program, a STEM scholarship for women that can help you achieve your academic and professional goals.

The ACS Scholars Program is a renewable scholarship that awards up to $5,000 per academic year to undergraduate students from historically underrepresented groups in the chemical sciences, such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders. The scholarship is open to women who are majoring in chemistry-related disciplines, such as biochemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science, materials science, and more. The scholarship also provides mentoring, networking, and career development opportunities for the recipients.

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program is a competitive and prestigious scholarship that has supported over 3,500 students since its inception in 1994. Many of the ACS Scholars have gone on to pursue graduate degrees and careers in the chemical sciences and related fields, making significant contributions to science and society. Some of the ACS Scholars have also become faculty members at universities and colleges, inspiring the next generation of diverse scientific leaders.

If you are interested in applying for the ACS Scholars Program, you need to act fast. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year is March 1, 2024. We will guide you through the application process and provide you with some tips and resources to help you succeed. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about the scholarship and share some success stories from past and current ACS Scholars. By the end of this blog post, you will have a clear idea of how to apply for the ACS Scholars Program and why it is a great opportunity for women in STEM.

The application process for the ACS Scholars Program is simple. You need to complete an online application form and submit some required documents by March 1, 2024. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you apply, you need to make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the scholarship. To be eligible, you must:

Be a woman who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Be a full-time student at an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its territories.
Be a high school senior or an undergraduate student who has not yet completed the sophomore year.
Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Demonstrate financial need based on the Student Aid Report (SAR) from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form.
Be a member of a historically underrepresented group in the chemical sciences, such as African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders.
Be majoring in or planning to major in a chemistry-related discipline, such as biochemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science, materials science, and more.
Intend to pursue a career in the chemical sciences or related fields.

If you meet all these criteria, you are eligible to apply for the ACS Scholars Program. If you are not sure about your eligibility, you can contact the ACS Scholars Program staff at scholars@acs.org for clarification.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

The online application form for the ACS Scholars Program is available on the ACS website. You need to create an account and log in to access the form. The form will ask you to provide some personal and academic information, such as your name, address, email, phone number, ethnicity, citizenship, college, major, GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and career goals. You will also need to answer some short essay questions about your interest in chemistry, your involvement in extracurricular activities, and your financial situation. The essay questions are:

Why are you interested in chemistry or a chemistry-related field?
What are your long-term career goals and how do they relate to chemistry or a chemistry-related field?
Describe any extracurricular activities (such as clubs, sports, volunteer work, etc.) that you have participated in and how they have influenced your personal and academic development.
Describe any special circumstances or challenges that you have faced or overcome that have affected your academic performance or financial situation.

The essay questions are an important part of your application, as they allow you to showcase your personality, passion, and potential. You should write clear, concise, and compelling essays that demonstrate your interest and aptitude for chemistry and related fields, your leadership and teamwork skills, your resilience and perseverance, and your need for financial assistance. You should also proofread your essays for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors before submitting them.

Step 3: Upload the Required Documents

In addition to the online application form, you need to upload some required documents to complete your application. The required documents are:

An unofficial transcript that includes your fall semester grades. If you are a college freshman, you need to submit both your high school and college transcripts.
Two letters of recommendation from a chemistry, science, or math teacher or a research advisor. The letters should highlight your academic achievements, your potential for success in chemistry and related fields, and your personal qualities and character.
A copy of your Student Aid Report (SAR) from the FAFSA form. The SAR shows your expected family contribution (EFC) and your eligibility for federal student aid. The SAR must be for the upcoming academic year, not the current year.

You can upload these documents as PDF files within the online application form. You need to have the name and email address of your letter writers ready when you apply, as the application will send them an email with instructions on how to upload their letters. You should also inform your letter writers about the deadline and the purpose of the scholarship, and thank them for their support.

Step 4: Submit Your Application by March 1, 2024

Once you have completed the online application form and uploaded the required documents, you are ready to submit your application. You should review your application carefully and make sure that all the information is accurate and complete. You should also save a copy of your application for your records. You can submit your application by clicking the “Submit” button at the end of the form. You will receive a confirmation email after you submit your application.

You should submit your application as early as possible, as the ACS Scholars Program receives thousands of applications every year and the competition is fierce. The deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year is March 1, 2024, but you should not wait until the last minute to apply. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting the scholarship.

What are the Benefits of the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program?

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program is more than just a scholarship. It is also a program that provides mentoring, networking, and career development opportunities for the recipients. Here are some of the benefits of the ACS Scholars Program:

The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, depending on your academic performance and the availability of funds. You can receive up to $5,000 per academic year, which can help you pay for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses.
The scholarship is flexible and can be used at any accredited college or university in the U.S. or its territories. You can choose the institution and the major that best suits your interests and goals, as long as they are related to chemistry or a chemistry-related field.
The scholarship connects you with a network of mentors, peers, and professionals who can support you throughout your academic and professional journey. You can get advice, guidance, and feedback from ACS staff, faculty, alumni, and industry partners who are experts in the chemical sciences and related fields.
The scholarship exposes you to various STEM fields of study and career opportunities that you may not have considered before. You can learn about the diverse and exciting applications of chemistry in areas such as health, energy, environment, materials, and more. You can also explore the different pathways and options for pursuing graduate degrees and careers in the chemical sciences and related fields.
The scholarship offers you access to internships, research, and travel opportunities that can enhance your skills and experience. You can apply for paid internships at prestigious institutions and organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the ACS itself. You can also participate in research projects with faculty and peers, and present your findings at local, regional, and national conferences. You can also travel to different places and meet new people who share your passion for chemistry and STEM.

What are the Available Courses for the ACS Scholars Program?

The American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program is open to students who are majoring in or planning to major in a chemistry-related discipline. A chemistry-related discipline is any field of study that involves the application or understanding of chemistry principles and concepts. Some examples of chemistry-related disciplines are:

Biochemistry
Chemical Engineering
Chemistry
Environmental Science
Forensic Science
Materials Science
Nanoscience
Pharmacy
Physics
Toxicology

These are just some of the chemistry-related disciplines that you can major in or plan to major in for the ACS Scholars Program. Many more fields involve chemistry, and you can find a comprehensive list of them on the ACS website.

When is the Deadline to Apply for the ACS Scholars Program and How to Submit the Application?

The deadline to apply for the ACS Scholars Program for the 2024-2025 academic year is March 1, 2024. You need to submit your application online through the ACS website. You also need to upload your unofficial transcript, two letters of recommendation, and your Student Aid Report (SAR) from the FAFSA form. You can find more details about the application process and the required documents in the previous section of this blog post.

You should submit your application as early as possible, as the ACS Scholars Program is a highly competitive and selective scholarship. The ACS Scholars Program staff will review your application and notify you of the decision by May 15, 2024. If you are selected as an ACS Scholar, you will receive a scholarship award letter and a contract that you need to sign and return by June 15, 2024. You will also need to submit your official transcript and proof of enrollment by August 15, 2024.

Where Can the Applicants Find More Information and Contact Details?

If you have any questions or concerns about the ACS Scholars Program, you can find more information and contact details on the ACS website. You can also follow the ACS Scholars Program on social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, to get updates, news, and tips. You can also join the ACS Scholars Program alumni network on LinkedIn, where you can connect with other ACS Scholars and mentors, and learn about career opportunities and events.

Here are some of the contact details for the ACS Scholars Program:

Email: scholars@acs.org
Phone: 1-800-227-5558 ext. 6250
Fax: 1-202-872-4361
Mail: ACS Scholars Program, American Chemical Society, 1155 Sixteenth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036

Frequently Asked Questions about the ACS Scholars Program

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about the ACS Scholars Program and their answers:

How many students apply and how many are selected for the ACS Scholars Program each year?

The ACS Scholars Program receives thousands of applications each year, but only about 300 students are selected as ACS Scholars. The selection process is based on academic merit, financial need, and potential for success in chemistry and related fields.

How is the scholarship amount determined and how is it disbursed?

The scholarship amount is determined by the ACS Scholars Program staff based on the availability of funds, the number of applicants, and the financial need of the recipients. The scholarship amount can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per academic year, and it can be renewed for up to four years. The scholarship is disbursed directly to the college or university where the recipient is enrolled, and it can be used for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses.

What are the requirements to maintain the scholarship and renew it for the next academic year?

To maintain the scholarship and renew it for the next academic year, the recipient must:
Remain a full-time student at an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its territories.
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Continue to major in a chemistry-related discipline and intend to pursue a career in the chemical sciences or related fields.
Submit a renewal application form and an unofficial transcript by March 1 of each year.
Submit a progress report and a mentor evaluation form by May 15 of each year.
Participate in the mentoring and networking activities of the ACS Scholars Program.

What are the benefits of having a mentor and how can I find one?

Having a mentor is one of the benefits of the ACS Scholars Program, as it can help you with your academic and professional development. A mentor is someone who has experience and expertise in the chemical sciences or related fields, and who can provide you with advice, guidance, feedback, and support. A mentor can also help you with your career exploration, goal setting, resume writing, interview preparation, and networking skills.
You can find a mentor through the ACS Scholars Program staff, who will match you with a suitable mentor based on your interests and goals. You can also find a mentor through the ACS website, where you can search for mentors by location, discipline, industry, and career stage. You can also find a mentor through your local ACS chapter, where you can meet other ACS members and professionals in your area.

What are the opportunities for internships, research, and travel for the ACS Scholars?

The ACS Scholars Program offers various opportunities for internships, research, and travel for the recipients, which can enhance their skills and experience. Some of the opportunities are:
The ACS Scholars Program Internship Program, which provides paid internships at prestigious institutions and organizations, such as the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the ACS itself. The internships are available for the summer, fall, and spring semesters, and they last for 10 to 12 weeks. The interns work on projects related to chemistry and related fields, and they receive mentoring, training, and networking opportunities. The application deadline for the internships is February 1 of each year.
The ACS Scholars Program Research Program, which provides funding and support for research projects with faculty and peers. The research projects can be conducted at the recipient’s home institution or at another institution, and they can be related to any area of chemistry or a chemistry-related field. The research projects can be presented at local, regional, and national conferences, such as the ACS National Meeting and Exposition, where the recipients can showcase their findings and network with other researchers and professionals. The application deadline for the research program is March 1 of each year.
The ACS Scholars Program Travel Program, which provides funding and support for travel to conferences, workshops, and events related to chemistry and related fields. The travel program can help the recipients to learn about the latest developments and trends in the chemical sciences and related fields, and to meet and interact with other ACS Scholars, mentors, and professionals. The travel program can also help the recipients to explore different places and cultures, and to broaden their horizons and perspectives. The application deadline for the travel program is March 1 of each year.

What are some of the success stories and testimonials from the past and current ACS Scholars?

The ACS Scholars Program has supported over 3,500 students since its inception in 1994, and many of them have gone on to pursue graduate degrees and careers in the chemical sciences and related fields, making significant contributions to science and society. Some of the success stories and testimonials from the past and current ACS Scholars are:
Dr. Rigoberto Hernandez, who was an ACS Scholar from 1994 to 1998, and who is now a professor of chemistry and the director of the Open Chemistry Collaborative in Diversity Equity (OXIDE) at Johns Hopkins University. He is also a fellow of the ACS and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), and a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). He says: “The ACS Scholars Program was instrumental in my development as a scientist and a leader. It provided me with financial support, mentoring, networking, and career development opportunities that helped me to achieve my goals and to give back to the community.”
Dr. Luisa Whittaker-Brooks, who was an ACS Scholar from 2005 to 2009, and who is now an assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry at the University of Utah. She is also a recipient of the NSF CAREER Award, the Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship, and the ACS Women Chemists Committee Rising Star Award. She says: “The ACS Scholars Program was a life-changing experience for me. It opened the doors to many opportunities and possibilities that I never imagined.

Can I use the scholarship for any chemistry-related major or minor?

Yes, you can use the scholarship for any chemistry-related major or minor, as long as it involves the application or understanding of chemistry principles and concepts. You can find a list of chemistry-related disciplines on the ACS website. You can also double major or minor in another field, as long as one of your majors or minors is chemistry-related.

Can I use the scholarship for graduate school or professional school?

No, the scholarship is only for undergraduate students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a chemistry-related discipline. However, the ACS Scholars Program encourages and supports the recipients to pursue graduate degrees and careers in the chemical sciences and related fields. The ACS Scholars Program provides guidance, resources, and opportunities for the recipients to prepare for and apply to graduate programs and professional schools. The ACS Scholars Program also offers scholarships and fellowships for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers through other ACS programs, such as the ACS Graduate Student Fellowships, the ACS Postdoctoral Fellowships, and the ACS Women Chemists Committee/Eli Lilly Travel Awards.

How can I get involved in the mentoring and networking activities of the ACS Scholars Program?

The mentoring and networking activities of the ACS Scholars Program are designed to help you succeed in your academic and professional journey. You can get involved in the following ways:
Connect with your assigned mentor, who is an ACS member and a professional in the chemical sciences or related fields. Your mentor can provide you with advice, guidance, and feedback on your academic and career goals, as well as introduce you to other mentors and peers in the ACS network.
Join the ACS Scholars Program online community, where you can interact with other ACS Scholars, alumni, mentors, and staff. You can share your experiences, challenges, and achievements, as well as ask questions, seek help, and offer support. You can also access various resources, such as webinars, podcasts, newsletters, and blogs, that can enhance your skills and knowledge.
Attend the ACS Scholars Program events, such as the annual ACS Scholars Program Symposium, the ACS National Meetings, and the ACS Regional Meetings. These events provide you with opportunities to present your research, learn from experts, network with professionals, and explore career options. You can also apply for travel grants and awards to attend these events.

Conclusion:

The ACS Scholars Program is a STEM scholarship for women from underrepresented groups who are majoring in chemistry-related disciplines and planning to pursue chemistry-related careers. The scholarship awards up to $5,000 per academic year and provides mentoring, networking, and career development opportunities for the recipients. The scholarship is open to high school seniors and undergraduate students who have not yet completed their sophomore year. The application deadline for the 2024-2025 academic year is March 1, 2024.

If you are a woman who loves chemistry and wants to make a difference in the world, you should apply for the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program. This scholarship can help you achieve your academic and professional goals and join a community of diverse and talented scientific leaders. To apply, you need to complete an online application form and upload some required documents on the ACS website. You can also find more information and contact details on the ACS website or by emailing scholars@acs.org or calling 1-800-227-5558 ext. 6250.

Don’t miss this opportunity to apply for the ACS Scholars Program, a STEM scholarship for women in chemistry and beyond. Apply now and start your journey to becoming a successful and influential chemist.

How to Apply for the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program – A STEM Scholarship for Women in Chemistry and Beyond