Undergraduate Scholarships

By removing financial barriers, AWIS aims to create an inclusive
environment where talent and determination define success.

The 2025 AWIS Scholarship Program is now closed.

Applicants have been notified. Stay updated for the next cycle and sign up to receive notifications for 2026.

"This scholarship helped me cover the living costs in New York City, advance my research skills, and become a stronger candidate for graduate school."

“This award gave me the financial freedom to break generational cycles and pursue this next phase in my life I will be able to continue my education and give back to other aspiring women like myself."

First-Generation College Student Scholarship

Up to four scholarships of $2,000 will be awarded to a college undergraduate 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. 2025 applications have now closed. Stay updated for the next cycle!

Applicants will need to provide:

Professional/Academic Goals Essay addressing the following (500-1,500 words):
1. Your background
2. Career/academic goals
3. How this award will help you meet those career and educational objectives as they relate to STEM and the AWIS mission
Resume/CV Intended use of funds
Unofficial transcript
Must be a member currently enrolled in a US based college or university studying a field in the sciences
Two recommendation questionnaires completed from a professor or advisor who is aware of your scientific ability and interests

Kirsten R. Lorentzen Award

Funded by the AWIS Educational Foundation, this $2,500 award goes to an undergraduate member studying physics, geophysics, or geoscience. Applications are to the Society of Physics Students, an organization of the American Institute of Physics. The SPS Scholarship Committee will determine the recipients. Applicants must be active members of the SPS national organization. 2025 applications have now closed. Stay updated for the next cycle!

Applicants will need to provide:

Unofficial Transcripts
Outline of the physics and related courses
Written statement of career objectives
Written statement of participation in SPS activities
Written statement providing evidence of being an exceptionally well-rounded student
Certification from the Department Chair
Two letters of recommendation from faculty members

Dr. Vicki L. Schechtman Scholarship

This scholarship of $2,000 will be awarded to a college undergraduate in their Freshman through Junior year whose field of study will be one of the sciences recognized by the National Science Foundation and continues Dr. Schechtman’s dreams of scientific progress. 2025 Applications have now closed. Stay updated for the next cycle!

Applicants will need to provide:

Professional/Academic Goals Essay addressing the following (500-1,500 words):
1. Your background
2. Career/academic goals
3. How this award will help you meet those career and educational objectives as they relate to STEM and the AWIS mission
Resume/CV Intended use of funds
Unofficial transcript
Must be currently enrolled in a US based college or university studying a field in the sciences
Two recommendation questionnaires completed from a professor or advisor who is aware of your scientific ability and interests

Become an AWIS Member

Donate to Support Women In Science

Benefits of AWIS membership

Achieve personal development through mentoring programs, volunteer opportunities, and programming. Attend our monthly What’s Next Webinars free ($29 for non-members).
Get recognized for your work in member spotlights on our website, newsletters, and quarterly magazine articles. Members have told us this has helped their career advancement.
Apply for scholarship opportunities and annual awards available only to AWIS members.
Connect with AWIS members locally and nationally using our member directory.
Enjoy a community of other women in science that provides valuable networking opportunities, inspiration, guidance, best practices, and lifelong friendships. Members also participate in outreach to girls and other women coming up behind them.

Available to all Women in Science

Stay on top of hot headlines and what’s new at AWIS through a weekly newsletter and online content hub.
Find job opportunities, career insights, and a free resume review on the AWIS Career Center or attend a Virtual Career Fairs (one coming up March 13).
AWIS advocates for safe, inclusive workplaces and equitable advancement for all women in science.

Acknowledgements

Thank you to our featured partners for their support of AWIS and the AWIS Foundation Awards.

We would also like to thank the Scholarship Committee for the administration of these programs.

We are grateful for all AWIS donors and supporters for helping women in science and related STEM fields achieve their dreams and reach their full potential.