STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) careers are some of the most sought-after professions in the world. To encourage students to pursue STEM fields, numerous fully-funded scholarships are available to support them financially. However, did you know that some STEM scholarships come with strange requirements? Let’s explore the weird world of fully-funded STEM scholarships.
- Race and Ethnicity Requirements
Some STEM scholarships have race and ethnicity requirements. For instance, the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) offers fully-funded scholarships to Black students pursuing STEM careers. Similarly, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) offers scholarships to Hispanic students interested in STEM fields. These requirements aim to increase diversity in STEM professions and ensure that underrepresented groups have equal opportunities to succeed.
- Gender Restrictions
Some STEM scholarships come with gender restrictions. For example, the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) offers fully-funded scholarships to women pursuing degrees in STEM fields. These scholarships aim to encourage more women to enter STEM professions and provide them with financial support.
- GPA Requirements
STEM scholarships often come with high GPA requirements. For example, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship requires a minimum 3.0 GPA, while the National Merit Scholarship requires a minimum 3.5 GPA. These requirements ensure that scholarship recipients are academically prepared for the rigorous coursework that comes with STEM fields.
- Specific Major Requirements
Some fully-funded STEM scholarships require applicants to have specific majors. For instance, the Hertz Foundation Fellowship only supports students pursuing Ph.D. degrees in applied physical, biological, and engineering sciences. These requirements aim to support students in STEM fields that are in high demand and are critical for advancing scientific research and development.
Conclusion
Fully-funded STEM scholarships offer students the opportunity to pursue a degree in one of the most sought-after fields in the world. However, some of these scholarships come with unusual requirements, such as race and ethnicity, gender, GPA, and specific major requirements. These requirements aim to encourage diversity, ensure academic excellence, and support critical STEM fields.
