How to Apply for the AWIS Scholarship

Are you a woman who is passionate about science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM)? Do you want to pursue a STEM degree or career, but face financial challenges or other barriers? If so, you might be interested in applying for the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women, a generous and competitive award that supports women in STEM fields.

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is offered by the Association for Women in Science (AWIS), a leading organization that advocates for women in STEM to achieve business growth, social change, and innovation. AWIS has been providing scholarships to women in STEM since 1971 and has awarded over 40 scholarships in the last decade. The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women aims to help women overcome the gender gap and underrepresentation in STEM fields and to empower them to achieve their academic and professional goals.

In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know about the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women, including:

• What is the AWIS Scholarship and what are its objectives?
• Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship and what are the requirements?
• How much is the scholarship worth and what are the benefits?
• What are the available courses and fields of study?
• When is the deadline to apply for the scholarship and how to apply?
• Where can the applicants find more information and contact details?

By the end of this blog post, you will have a clear idea of whether the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is right for you, and how to apply for it. So, let’s get started!

What is the AWIS Scholarship and what are its objectives?

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is a prestigious and competitive award that supports women who are pursuing STEM degrees or careers. The scholarship is offered by the Association for Women in Science (AWIS), a nonprofit organization that has been advocating for women in STEM since 1971. AWIS has over 80 chapters and affiliates across the US and provides career resources, professional development, networking, mentoring, and volunteer opportunities to its members.

The objectives of the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women are to:

• Recognize and reward the academic excellence and potential of women in STEM fields
• Provide financial assistance and support to women who face economic or other challenges in pursuing STEM education or careers
• Increase the representation and diversity of women in STEM fields and leadership positions
• Encourage and inspire the next generation of women in STEM to pursue their dreams and aspirations

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is not a one-size-fits-all award. It offers different categories and amounts of scholarships to suit the needs and goals of different women in STEM. These include:

• AWIS First-Generation College Student Scholarships: Up to four scholarships of $2,000 each for undergraduate women who are the first in their families to attend college and study a STEM field
• Kirsten R. Lorentzen Award: One scholarship of $2,500 for an undergraduate woman studying physics, geophysics, or geoscience
• Dr. Vicki L. Schechtman Scholarship: One scholarship of $2,000 for an undergraduate woman studying any STEM field
• AWIS Opportunity Scholarships for Career Re-entry: Up to two scholarships of $2,500 each for women who have a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field and want to return to a STEM career after being out of the workforce for more than one year
• AWIS Distinguished Doctoral Research Scholarship: One scholarship of $10,000 for a doctoral student who is conducting original and impactful research in a STEM field

As you can see, the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women offers a variety of opportunities for women in STEM at different stages of their education and careers. Whether you are a freshman or a junior, a physics major or a biology major, a first-generation student, or a career re-entrant, there is a scholarship that can help you achieve your STEM goals.

Eligibility Requirements for the AWIS Scholarship

Here’s the deal—before you rush to fill out your application, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. For the AWIS Scholarship, the basic requirements include:

• Being a woman currently enrolled in an accredited STEM-related undergraduate or graduate program.
• Having a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in STEM.
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 (though this can vary by year).
• Being a member of the AWIS (membership can usually be obtained during the application process).

I remember thinking, “Am I eligible?” when I first started the process. But once I made sure my GPA and field of study lined up, I was ready to go. Don’t hesitate to check the AWIS website for any updated requirements before applying.

How to Apply for the AWIS Scholarship

Step 1: Understand the AWIS Scholarship Purpose

Before filling out the application, take a deep breath and think about why you’re applying. The AWIS Scholarship isn’t just a financial boost—it’s a statement of your commitment to breaking barriers in STEM. Understanding the scholarship’s purpose will help you craft a personal statement that stands out. It’s not just about grades, it’s about passion.

Step 2: Preparing Your Applicatio

The application process for the AWIS Scholarship may seem overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to break it down:

Gather Your Transcripts

The first step is easy—get your academic transcripts in order. This is the foundation of your application, and it’s a straightforward part of the process. Make sure your transcripts are up-to-date, clean, and show off your best work.

Crafting a Winning Personal Statement

This was the part I spent the most time on. The personal statement is your opportunity to tell your story. This is where you show AWIS who you are, why you’re passionate about STEM, and how you plan to use your education to impact the world. Don’t just talk about your grades—talk about your journey. Why did you choose STEM? How have you overcome obstacles as a woman in a male-dominated field? What does this scholarship mean to you?

Be real, be raw, and be authentic.

Step 3: Submit the Application Online

Once you’ve gathered all your documents, it’s time to apply. Don’t leave it to the last minute! I remember submitting mine days in advance just to be safe. The process is entirely online, so make sure you have a reliable internet connection.

Make sure all fields are filled correctly. A small error can cause unnecessary delays. Trust me, I learned that the hard way when I missed one small detail in my application. It cost me a day of anxiety.

Key Deadlines You Can’t Afford to Miss

You’ve probably heard this a thousand times: “Don’t miss the deadline.” But trust me—it’s so easy to get wrapped up in your schoolwork or life in general and forget. For AWIS, the application deadline is typically in early spring, but it’s always best to check the website for updates.

Step 4: Securing Letters of Recommendation

This is another important part of your application. AWIS usually asks for two letters of recommendation. These letters should be from professors, mentors, or employers who know your work ethic, your passion for STEM, and your potential for future success. Choose people who can write heartfelt, personalized letters that speak to your strengths and your dedication to the field.

When I applied, I reached out to a professor who had seen my growth over several years. He knew my struggles and triumphs, and his letter carried weight. Don’t just ask anyone—make sure your recommenders truly understand your academic journey.

How much is the scholarship worth and what are the benefits?

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is a generous and competitive award that can make a significant difference in your STEM education or career. The amount and benefits of the scholarship depend on the category of the scholarship you are applying for. Here is a summary of the amount and benefits for each category:

• AWIS First-Generation College Student Scholarships: You will receive $2,000 that you can use for tuition, fees, books, supplies, or other educational expenses. You will also receive recognition from AWIS and access to AWIS resources and opportunities.
• Kirsten R. Lorentzen Award: You will receive $2,500 that you can use for tuition, fees, books, supplies, or other educational expenses. You will also receive recognition from AWIS and SPS, and access to AWIS and SPS resources and opportunities.
• Dr. Vicki L. Schechtman Scholarship: You will receive $2,000 that you can use for tuition, fees, books, supplies, or other educational expenses. You will also receive recognition from AWIS and access to AWIS resources and opportunities.
• AWIS Opportunity Scholarships for Career Re-entry: You will receive $2,500 that you can use for expenses that will support and enable your return to a STEM career, such as tuition, fees, books, supplies, childcare, transportation, or professional development. You will also receive recognition from AWIS and access to AWIS resources and opportunities.
• AWIS Distinguished Doctoral Research Scholarship: You will receive $10,000 that you can use for expenses related to your dissertation research project, such as equipment, materials, travel, or publication. You will also receive recognition from AWIS and access to AWIS resources and opportunities.

As you can see, the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is not only a financial award, but also a recognition and support for your STEM achievements and aspirations. By receiving the scholarship, you will join a network of women in STEM who are leaders, innovators, and role models. You will also have access to resources and opportunities that can help you advance your STEM education and career.

What are the available courses and fields of study?

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is open to women who are pursuing STEM degrees or careers in any of the sciences recognized by the NSF. These include:

• Biological Sciences
• Computer and Information Science and Engineering
• Engineering
• Environmental Research and Education
• Geosciences
• Mathematical and Physical Sciences
• Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences
• Education and Human Resources

As you can see, the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women covers a wide range of STEM disciplines and subfields. Whether you are interested in biology, computer science, engineering, environmental science, geoscience, mathematics, physics, chemistry, psychology, sociology, economics, education, or any other STEM discipline course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for the AWIS Scholarship

I’ll be honest: there are a few common mistakes I made—and I want you to learn from them:

• Procrastination: Don’t wait until the last minute. It’ll stress you out and you might miss a key requirement.
• Vague Personal Statements: The personal statement is your chance to shine. Don’t be vague—be specific about your goals, achievements, and what you hope to achieve in the future.
• Weak Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths in detail.

How to Stand Out in Your AWIS Scholarship Application

The competition is fierce, but with the right approach, you can stand out. Here’s how:

1. Be Authentic: Your application should reflect your true self. AWIS wants to know who you are beyond the resume.
2. Show Your Passion: Don’t just list accomplishments—show how passionate you are about STEM and how this scholarship will help you further that passion.
3. Demonstrate Leadership: Leadership is key in STEM. Show how you’ve taken charge in group projects, clubs, or internships.

What Happens After You Apply

Once you submit your application, you’ll wait. AWIS will review all applications, and if you’re selected, you’ll be notified. During this time, you can focus on preparing for the next phase of your academic journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about the AWIS Scholarship

Q: Can I apply for the AWIS Scholarship if I’m not a full-time student?

A: Yes, as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria. Just make sure to read the application guidelines carefully.

Q: How many awards are given each year?

A: The AWIS Scholarship offers multiple awards each year, so don’t let the competition intimidate you. Apply, and you might just be one of the winners.

Q: Is it possible to reapply for the scholarship?

A: Absolutely! If you didn’t win one year, don’t give up. You can apply again in future years.

Where can the applicants find more information and contact details?

If you have any questions or concerns about the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women, you can find more information and contact details on the AWIS website. Here are some useful links and resources that you can use:

• AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women main page
• AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women FAQ page
• AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women past recipients
• AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women contact email: scholarships@awis.org

You can also follow AWIS on social media to get the latest news and updates about the scholarship and other AWIS programs and events. Here are some of the AWIS social media accounts that you can follow:

• AWIS Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AWISNational/
• AWIS Twitter account: https://twitter.com/AWISNational^[1]
• AWIS Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/awisnational/
• AWIS LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-for-women-in-science/

By visiting the AWIS website and following the AWIS social media accounts, you can get more information and support for your AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women application. You can also connect with other women in STEM who are applying for or have received the scholarship, and learn from their experiences and insights.

Conclusion:

The AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women is a great opportunity for women who are pursuing STEM degrees or careers and need financial support. The scholarship is offered by the Association for Women in Science (AWIS), a leading organization that advocates for women in STEM to achieve business growth, social change, and innovation. The scholarship offers different categories and amounts of awards to suit the needs and goals of different women in STEM. The scholarship also provides recognition and access to resources and opportunities that can help women in STEM advance their education and careers.

If you are a woman who is passionate about STEM and wants to apply for the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women, you should:

• Check the eligibility and requirements for the category of the scholarship you are applying for
• Prepare your application materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and research proposal
• Submit your application online before the deadline for the category of the scholarship you are applying for
• Visit the AWIS website and follow the AWIS social media accounts for more information and contact details

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of getting the AWIS Scholarship – STEM Scholarship for Women and boost your STEM career. We wish you all the best and hope you get the scholarship you deserve!