25 Scholarships for Black Women in STEM: How to Apply and Win

STEM fields are among the most in-demand and rewarding careers in the world. However, they are also among the most underrepresented by women and minorities, especially black women. According to the National Science Foundation, black women make up only 2.9% of the STEM workforce in the US. This is a huge gap that needs to be filled by more talented and diverse voices.

Fortunately, there are many organizations and individuals who recognize the potential and value of black women in STEM, and offer scholarships to support their education and career development. These scholarships can provide financial assistance, mentorship, networking, and recognition for black women who aspire to excel in STEM fields.

In this article, we will introduce you to 25 scholarships for black women in STEM, covering various disciplines, levels, and eligibility criteria. We will also give you some tips on how to apply and win these scholarships, and answer some frequently asked questions. Whether you are a high school senior, a college student, or a graduate student, you will find some scholarships that suit your needs and interests.

So, if you are ready to learn more about these amazing opportunities, read on and discover how you can fund your STEM education and career with these scholarships.

25 Scholarships for Black Women in STEM

Here are 25 scholarships for black women in STEM, arranged in alphabetical order. For each scholarship, we will provide a brief overview, the amount, the deadline, the eligibility requirements, and the application process. We will also include a link to the official website where you can find more details and apply.

1. BHW Women in STEM Scholarship

The BHW Group is a digital agency that specializes in web and mobile app development. They offer a $3,000 scholarship for women who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in STEM. The scholarship is open to US citizens or permanent residents who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a 500-800 word essay on one of the following topics:

• How do you use mobile or web applications in your studies or daily life?
• How do you think mobile or web applications will change in the future?
• How do you think mobile or web applications can improve the lives of women in STEM fields?

The deadline for the scholarship is April 15th, 2023.

Apply here.

2. Dr. Gussie M. Ware Memorial Scholarship

Dr. Gussie M. Ware was a pioneering black woman who earned a PhD in chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1931. She was also a teacher, a researcher, and a community leader. To honor her legacy, the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois offers a scholarship for black women who are pursuing a degree in STEM or education. The scholarship amount varies depending on the availability of funds.

The scholarship is open to black women who are graduating high school seniors or GED recipients starting post-secondary education for the first time. They must have a current GPA of at least 2.5/4.0, and have a permanent address in Winnebago County, Illinois, or be a relative of Dr. Gussie M. Ware.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, a FAFSA report, and two letters of recommendation. You also need to write a 400-600 word essay on how you have demonstrated resilience to inspire someone else.

The deadline for the scholarship is February 1st, 2023.

Apply here.

3. Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship

Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking, securities, and investment management firm. They offer a fellowship program for first-year MBA students who are pursuing a 2023 Summer Associate position at Goldman Sachs. The fellowship includes a $35,000 award, a paid summer internship, and a potential full-time offer.

The fellowship is open to LGBTQ+, black, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American/Indigenous, or women students who are enrolled in an MBA program at an accredited college or university in the US. They must also be interested in working in one of the following locations: Atlanta, Boston, Calgary, Chicago, Dallas, Greenwich, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle, West Palm Beach, or Washington D.C.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a resume, a transcript, and an essay. You also need to complete an online assessment and a video interview. The deadline for the fellowship is February 19th, 2023.

Apply here.

4. Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship

Hyundai is a global automotive company that is committed to supporting women in STEM fields. They offer a $10,000 scholarship for women who are pursuing a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. The scholarship is open to US citizens or permanent residents who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and a 500-word essay on why you chose to pursue a degree in STEM, what drives you to be successful, and what you plan to do after graduation.

The deadline for the scholarship is June 30th, 2023.

[Apply here].

5. Joseph F. Mulach, Jr. and Louisa A. Mulach Scholarship Fund

The Joseph F. Mulach, Jr. and Louisa A. Mulach Scholarship Fund was established by the Mulach family to honor their parents, who were both engineers and advocates for education. The scholarship provides $2,500 for women who are pursuing a degree in engineering, math, or science. The scholarship is open to US citizens or permanent residents who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate financial need and involvement in extracurricular activities.

Average Award: $2,000
Award Type: Renewable award.
Application Period Opens: 1/17/2024
Application Period Closes: 4/1/2024

Criteria

• Attend Carlow University, Carnegie Mellon University, Chatham University, Seton Hill University, or the University of Pittsburgh as a current undergraduate or graduate student.
• Pursue a degree or studies in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics, physics or genetic research.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
• Preference will be given to qualified female students.

How to Apply

Contact

• Scholarship America: pittsburghfoundation@scholarshipamerica.org

6. MPower Financing Women in STEM Scholarship

MPower Financing is a social enterprise that provides loans and scholarships for international and DACA students. They offer a $5,000 scholarship for women who are pursuing a degree in STEM at a partner university in the US or Canada. The scholarship is open to students who are at least 18 years old, and who are from any country except the US and Canada.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and a short essay or video on how you plan to use your STEM degree to make a positive impact on the world.

Application Deadline: January 15, 2024

Every year, scholarships are conferred to female international/DACA students currently enrolled or accepted into full-time STEM degree programs at institutions supported by MPOWER in the United States or Canada.

Award Categories:

• Grand Prize: US$6,000
• Runner-Up: US$2,000
• Honorable Mention: US$1,000

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be accepted or enrolled in a full-time degree program at a U.S. or Canadian institution supported by MPOWER.
• Be an international student with legal permission to study in the U.S. or Canada, meeting one of the following conditions:
  • For U.S. study: Possess a valid visa for studying in the U.S., be protected under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), or hold U.S. permanent residency (Green Card).
  • For Canadian study: Be a Canadian permanent resident or possess a valid Canadian study permit.

Please note that this scholarship is exclusively designed for international and DACA students. Therefore, U.S. citizens intending to study in the U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking to study in Canada are ineligible for this scholarship.

 [Apply here].

7. National Society of Black Engineers Scholarship Program

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is a nonprofit organization that aims to increase the number and success of black engineers. They offer various scholarships for black students who are pursuing a degree in engineering or a related field. The scholarships range from $500 to $10,000, depending on the level, discipline, and sponsor.

The scholarships are open to NSBE members who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0 for undergraduates, or 3.0/4.0 for graduates. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US or Canada.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and a letter of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.

The deadline for the scholarships varies depending on the specific program, but most of them are between March and May, 2023.

[Apply here].

8. Orchard Scholarship for Women of Color in STEM

Orchard is a company that helps people buy and sell homes with ease. They offer a $2,000 scholarship for women of color who are pursuing a degree in STEM at a four-year college or university in the US. The scholarship is open to US citizens or permanent residents who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and a 500-word essay on why you are passionate about STEM, and how you plan to use your degree to make a positive impact on the world.

The deadline for the scholarship is December 15th, 2023.

[Apply here].

9. PixelPlex Bi-Annual STEM Scholarship

PixelPlex is a consulting and custom software development firm that offers a bi-annual scholarship for students who are interested in STEM, economics, or business. The scholarship provides $2,000 for students who are pursuing a degree related to these fields at a college or university in the US. The scholarship is open to US citizens who have a minimum GPA of 3.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form along with a 500-word essay on one of the following topics:

• How has STEM influenced your personal and professional goals?
• What are some of the current or emerging challenges or opportunities in STEM fields?
• How can STEM education be improved or expanded to reach more diverse and underrepresented groups?

The deadline for the scholarship is December 31st, 2023.

[Apply here].

10. Society of Women Engineers Scholarship Program

The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) is a nonprofit organization that supports and empowers women in engineering and technology. They offer various scholarships for women who are pursuing a degree in engineering, engineering technology, or computer science. The scholarships range from $1,000 to $20,000, depending on the level, discipline, and sponsor.

The scholarships are open to SWE members who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 for undergraduates, or 3.5/4.0 for graduates. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US or its territories.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and two letters of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.

The deadline for the scholarships varies depending on the specific program, but most of them are between February and March, 2023.

[Apply here].

11. STEM Scholarship by XBOSoft

XBOSoft is a software testing and quality assurance company that offers a $1,000 scholarship for students who are pursuing a degree in STEM. The scholarship is open to US citizens or permanent residents who have a minimum GPA of 3.4.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and a 500-700 word essay on one of the following topics:

• How has software impacted your life?
• What are some of the current or future trends in software development or testing?
• How can software quality be improved or measured?

The deadline for the scholarship is July 1st, 2023.

[Apply here].

12. The Generation Google Scholarship

The Generation Google Scholarship is a program that aims to inspire and support students from underrepresented groups in technology. The scholarship provides $10,000 for students who are pursuing a degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related field. The scholarship also includes an invitation to attend the Google Scholars’ Retreat, where recipients can network with Google engineers and fellow scholars.

The scholarship is open to students who identify as female, black, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American/Indigenous, or a person with a disability. They must also be US citizens or permanent residents, and have a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and two essays. You also need to demonstrate leadership, passion, and impact in the field of computer science.

The deadline for the scholarship is December 4th, 2023.

13. The HORIZONS Scholarship

The HORIZONS Scholarship is a program that supports women who are pursuing a degree in national security or defense. The scholarship provides up to $6,000 for students who are interested in working in the fields of intelligence, homeland security, cyber security, or STEM. The scholarship is sponsored by Women In Defense, a national security organization affiliated with the National Defense Industrial Association.

The scholarship is open to women who are US citizens, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.25/4.0. They must also be enrolled at an accredited college or university in the US, and demonstrate interest and involvement in national security or defense.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a 500-word essay on your interest and goals in national security or defense.

The deadline for the scholarship is July 15th, 2023.

14. The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship Program

The L’Oréal USA For Women in Science Fellowship Program is a program that recognizes and supports women who are conducting postdoctoral research in STEM fields. The program provides $60,000 for each fellow to advance their research and career. The program also includes mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities.

The program is open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have completed their PhD in a STEM field within the past five years. They must also have a confirmed appointment to conduct research at a US academic institution or nonprofit research organization.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a research proposal, a CV, a letter of recommendation, and a letter of support from your host institution.

The deadline for the program is January 29th, 2023.

[Apply here].

15. The National GEM Consortium Fellowship Program

The National GEM Consortium is a network of leading corporations, government laboratories, universities, and research institutions that aims to increase the participation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields. They offer a fellowship program for students who are pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in engineering or science. The fellowship provides a stipend, full tuition and fees, and internship opportunities at GEM employer members.

The fellowship is open to students who identify as African American, American Indian, or Hispanic American. They must also be US citizens or permanent residents, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. You also need to take the GRE and apply to at least three GEM member universities.

The deadline for the fellowship is November 15th, 2023.

[Apply here].

16. The Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship

Palantir is a software company that builds platforms for data analysis and decision making. They offer a scholarship for women who are pursuing a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. The scholarship provides $10,000 for each recipient, along with an invitation to attend the Palantir Women in Technology Workshop, where they can meet Palantir engineers and learn more about the company.

The scholarship is open to women who are enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US or Canada. They must also be in their freshman, sophomore, or junior year of undergraduate study, or in their first or second year of a non-doctoral graduate program.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and an essay. You also need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and interest in technology.

The deadline for the scholarship is January 31st, 2023.

[Apply here].

17. The Science Ambassador Scholarship

The Science Ambassador Scholarship is a program that supports women who are passionate about STEM and want to share their love of science with others. The scholarship provides full tuition for four years for one recipient, and partial tuition for runners-up. The scholarship is sponsored by Cards Against Humanity, a popular party game.

The scholarship is open to women who are high school seniors or undergraduate students, and who are pursuing a degree in STEM. They must also be US citizens or permanent residents.

To apply, you need to submit a video of yourself explaining a STEM topic that you are excited about. The video should be three minutes or less, and should be uploaded to YouTube with the title “[Your name] – Science Ambassador Scholarship”. You also need to fill out an online application form with your personal and academic information.

The deadline for the scholarship is December 14th, 2023.

[Apply here].

18. The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Scholarship Program

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) is a nonprofit organization that empowers and advances Hispanic engineers and students. They offer various scholarships for Hispanic students who are pursuing a degree in STEM. The scholarships range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the level, discipline, and sponsor.

The scholarships are open to SHPE members who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 2.75/4.0 for undergraduates, or 3.0/4.0 for graduates. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US or Puerto Rico.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and a letter of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.

The deadline for the scholarships varies depending on the specific program, but most of them are between April and June, 2023.

[Apply here].

19. The Society of Women Environmental Professionals Scholarship Program

The Society of Women Environmental Professionals (SWEP) is a nonprofit organization that fosters the advancement and leadership of women in environmental fields. They offer various scholarships for women who are pursuing a degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field. The scholarships range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the chapter, level, and discipline.

The scholarships are open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US.

To apply, you need to submit an online or mail-in application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and a

20. The Women in Aerospace Foundation Scholarship Program

The Women in Aerospace Foundation is a nonprofit organization that promotes the advancement and recognition of women in the aerospace industry. They offer various scholarships for women who are pursuing a degree in aerospace engineering, aviation, space science, or a related field. The scholarships range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the level and discipline.

The scholarships are open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US.

To apply, you need to submit an online or mail-in application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and two letters of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and interest in aerospace.

The deadline for the scholarships varies depending on the specific program, but most of them are between March and June, 2023.

[Apply here].

21. The Women in Engineering and Computer and Information Science Awards

The Women in Engineering and Computer and Information Science Awards are sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF), a federal agency that supports research and education in science and engineering. The awards provide $10,000 for women who are pursuing a doctoral degree in engineering or computer and information science. The awards also include travel expenses to attend the annual conference of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS).

The awards are open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have completed at least one year of their doctoral program. They must also be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university in the US.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a CV, a research proposal, and three letters of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic achievement, research potential, and contribution to diversity.

The deadline for the awards is December 1st, 2023.

[Apply here].

22. The Women in Technology Scholarship

The Women in Technology Scholarship is a program that supports women who are pursuing a career in technology. The program provides $2,500 for women who are enrolled in or accepted to a vocational, associate, or bachelor’s degree program in information technology, computer science, or a related field. The program also includes mentorship, networking, and career development opportunities.

The program is open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. They must also demonstrate financial need and involvement in community service or extracurricular activities.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and a letter of recommendation.

The deadline for the program is March 15th, 2023.

[Apply here].

23. The Women Techmakers Scholars Program

The Women Techmakers Scholars Program is a program that supports women who are pursuing a degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related field. The program provides $10,000 for each scholar, along with an invitation to attend the Google Scholars’ Retreat, where they can network with Google engineers and fellow scholars.

The program is open to women who are US citizens or permanent residents, and who have a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0. They must also be enrolled full-time or part-time at an accredited college or university in the US or Canada.

To apply, you need to submit an online application form, along with a transcript, a resume, and two essays. You also need to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and impact on the field of computer science.

The deadline for the program is December 4th, 2023.

[Apply here].

24. The Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship

The Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship is a program that honors the legacy of Amelia Earhart, a pioneering aviator and Zonta member. The program provides $10,000 for women who are pursuing a doctoral degree in aerospace engineering or space sciences. The program also includes membership in Zonta International, a global organization that empowers women through service and advocacy.

The program is open to women who are citizens of any country, and who have completed at least one year of their doctoral program. They must also be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university in any country.

To apply, you need to submit an online or mail-in application form, along with a transcript, a CV, a research proposal, and three letters of recommendation. You also need to demonstrate academic achievement, research potential, and contribution to the advancement of aerospace engineering or space sciences.

The deadline for the program is November 15th, 2023.

[Apply here].

25. The Zonta International Women in Technology Scholarship

The Zonta International Women in Technology Scholarship is a program that supports women who are pursuing a degree or career in technology. The program provides $8,000 for each district/region recipient, and $10,000 for each international recipient. The program also includes membership in Zonta International, a global organization that empowers women through service and advocacy.

The program is open to women who are citizens of any country, and who are enrolled in or accepted to a vocational, undergraduate, or graduate program in technology. They must also demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and involvement in community service or extracurricular activities.

To apply, you need to submit an online or mail-in application form, along with a transcript, a resume, an essay, and two letters of recommendation.

The deadline for the program is October 15th, 2023.

[Apply here].

Tips on How to Apply and Win Scholarships for Black Women in STEM

Applying for scholarships can be a daunting and competitive process, but it can also be rewarding and fulfilling. Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of winning scholarships for black women in STEM:

• Start early and apply often. Don’t wait until the last minute to look for and apply for scholarships. Start your search as soon as possible, and apply for as many scholarships as you qualify for. You can use online databases, such as [Scholarships.com], [Fastweb], or [UNCF], to find scholarships that match your profile and interests. You can also ask your academic advisor, your professors, your mentors, or your peers for recommendations.
• Follow the instructions and requirements. Make sure you read and understand the instructions and requirements for each scholarship you apply for. Don’t miss any deadlines, documents, or details. Proofread your application materials for errors, typos, and inconsistencies. Use clear and concise language, and avoid jargon and slang. Format your materials according to the guidelines, and use appropriate fonts, margins, and spacing.
• Showcase your strengths and achievements. Highlight your academic excellence, leadership potential, and impact in STEM fields. Use specific examples, numbers, and evidence to support your claims. Show your passion, curiosity, and creativity in your chosen field. Demonstrate your involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, or professional development. Explain your goals, aspirations, and challenges, and how the scholarship will help you overcome them.
• Be authentic and original. Don’t copy or plagiarize from other sources, or use generic or clichéd statements. Write your own essays, and use your own voice and style. Be honest, sincere, and personal. Share your unique story, perspective, and background. Show your personality, values, and character. Make your application stand out from the crowd, and leave a lasting impression on the reviewers.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about scholarships for black women in STEM:

Q: Do I need to be a US citizen or permanent resident to apply for scholarships?

A: It depends on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships are open to students from any country, while others are restricted to US citizens or permanent residents. Check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship before you apply.

Q: Do I need to be a member of a certain organization or association to apply for scholarships?

A: It depends on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships are open to members of certain organizations or associations, such as NSBE, SWE, or SHPE, while others are open to anyone who meets the academic and demographic requirements. Check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship before you apply.

Q: Do I need to have a certain GPA or test score to apply for scholarships?

A: It depends on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships have minimum GPA or test score requirements, while others are more flexible or holistic in their evaluation. Check the eligibility criteria for each scholarship before you apply.

Q: Do I need to write an essay or provide a letter of recommendation to apply for scholarships?

A: It depends on the specific scholarship. Some scholarships require an essay or a letter of recommendation, while others do not. Check the application process for each scholarship before you apply.

Q: How can I find more scholarships for black women in STEM?

A: You can use online databases, such as [Scholarships.com], [Fastweb], or [UNCF], to find more scholarships that match your profile and interests. You can also ask your academic advisor, your professors, your mentors, or your peers for recommendations. You can also search for scholarships offered by your college or university, your employer, your community, or your field of study.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many scholarships for black women in STEM that can help you pay for your education and achieve your goals. These scholarships can provide financial assistance, mentorship, networking, and recognition for black women who aspire to excel in STEM fields. To apply and win these scholarships, you need to start early and apply often, follow the instructions and requirements, showcase your strengths and achievements, be authentic and original, and use online resources and personal networks to find more opportunities. We hope this article has inspired and informed you about the scholarships for black women in STEM, and we wish you all the best in your scholarship journey.