The Association for Women in Science Announces 2026 Scholarship Cycle

January 9, 2026

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Shelley O’Brien
(202) 827-9798
obrien@awis.org

The Association for Women in Science Announces 2026 Scholarship Cycle

WASHINGTON DC, January 9, 2026 – The Association for Women in Science (AWIS) is proud to announce that its 2026 scholarship program is now open. This program, designed to support members in scientific fields at various stages of their academic and professional journeys, includes awards for undergraduate students, doctoral students, and members re-entering the STEM workforce after a one-year leave. Submissions are due by February 28, 2026.  First generation students and communities underrepresented in STEM are encouraged to apply.

Scholarships include:

  • AWIS First-Generation College Student Scholarships ($2,000 each). Up to four (4) will be awarded to AWIS members who are college undergraduates in their Freshman through Junior year whose parents and/or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree and whose field of study will be one of the sciences recognized by the National Science Foundation.
  • Kirsten R. Lorentzen Award ($2,500). Awarded to an undergraduate member studying physics, geophysics or geoscience. Applicants must be active members of the Society of Physics national organization.
  • Dr. Vicki L. Schechtman Scholarship ($2,000). Awarded to an AWIS member in their college freshman, sophomore, or junior year whose chosen field of study is one of the sciences recognized by the National Science Foundation.
  • AWIS Opportunity Scholarships for Career Re-entry ($2,500 each). Up to two (2) will be awarded to enable AWIS members to return to a STEM career after being out of the workforce for more than one year.
  • AWIS Distinguished Doctoral Research Scholarship ($10,000). One (1) will be awarded to an AWIS member whose dissertation research project is judged likely to make important and original contributions to their field.

 

“The value of these awards goes beyond financial aid,” said Meredith Gibson, AWIS CEO. “AWIS scholarships instill confidence, open new career paths, and strengthen professional qualifications. AWIS is dedicated to supporting women scientists at all stages of their careers, particularly those from historically excluded communities.”

Learn more and apply online at https://awis.org/scholarships/. To help support the AWIS scholarship program, please visit https://awis.org/donate.

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About AWIS: Founded in 1971, AWIS is dedicated to driving equity and excellence in STEM by championing the interests of women across all disciplines and employment sectors so they can achieve their full potential. AWIS advocacy initiatives are committed to driving systemic change to support the 12.3M women in STEM. Our supportive community provides a sense of belonging, as well as career resources, scholarships, and opportunities for networking, mentoring, volunteering, recognition, and professional development to over 7,000 members. AWIS communications inspire over 67,000 social media followers, 32,000 monthly website visitors, and 24,000 newsletter subscribers globally. To become an AWIS member, learn about partner opportunities, or donate visit www.awis.org.