According to the Institute for College Access and Success, college graduates held an average of $28,950 in student loans in 2019. Student debt can burden borrowers for years, even with recent policies and programs intended to help lighten the load. For example, income-driven repayment plans can lower graduates' monthly payments, but it may still take 20-25 years to pay off the debt.
Grants, scholarships, and work-study programs can help students reduce their loans. Borrowers should prioritize federal loans, which typically offer better interest rates and more flexible repayment plans than private loans.
With lucrative salaries and high growth potential, computer science jobs can help professionals repay student loans more easily. Software developers, for example, earned a median annual salary of $110,140 as of 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects software developer jobs to grow by 22% from 2020-2030.
Our guide below lists computer science scholarships. These opportunities can help computer science students reduce educational costs. This guide also explores the overall financial aid process to help prospective students plan their education with confidence.
How to Apply for Computer Science Scholarships
This guide covers where to find the best computer science scholarships for 2022. We take a look at application strategies and common requirements. We also discuss different types of computer science scholarships, including awards for undergraduates, graduate students, women, and minority students.
Where to Look for Scholarships
Students can apply for both specific computer science scholarships and general funding opportunities. Look for computer science scholarships by contacting professional organizations, tech businesses, and university computer science departments. For general scholarship research, consult high school counselors and college financial aid offices.
The U.S. Department of Labor maintains a free online scholarship search tool. Students can also look for funding opportunities with their state grant agency. See below for more computer science scholarship resources:
- Unigo STEM Scholarships
- Scholarships360 STEM Scholarships
- Computer Science Scholarships at Scholarships.com
Types of Scholarship Sponsors
Thousands of organizations offer or sponsor computer science scholarships. Knowing the different types of sponsorship categories can help students discover more opportunities.
Possible sponsors include professional associations, private companies, plus nonprofit foundations and organizations. Local groups and community organizations may also offer scholarships. Many schools provide institutional scholarships for enrollees.
Companies That Will Pay for Your Degree
Typical Requirements
Scholarship requirements vary by sponsor. Computer science scholarships may limit applicants based on factors like academic performance and financial need. Other common criteria include demographics, career goals, and specialization area. Expected application materials also vary. See below for common eligibility and submission requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Demonstrated financial need
- Full-time student pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in computer science or a related STEM field
Submission Requirements
- Completed application
- Personal essay
- CV or resume
- Official college transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
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Available Scholarships for Computer Science
Our list of computer science scholarships provides many helpful options for students. We include undergraduate and graduate scholarships, plus opportunities for women and minorities in computer science.
Undergraduate Computer Science Scholarships
Betty Stevens Frecknall Scholarship
- This award benefits undergraduates majoring in computer science or a related field. Applicants need an overall and major GPA of at least 3.0. Students must also be U.S. citizens or permanent residents attending an accredited U.S. institution full time.
- Award: Varies
Apply
Google Student Veterans of America Scholarship
- Google offers this scholarship to veterans majoring in computer science or computer engineering in the United States. Undergraduate and graduate students may apply. Applicants must maintain strong academic performance. Students must submit proof of veteran status with an honorable discharge or good standing with their service branch.
- Award: $10,000
- Apply
IEEE Presidents' Scholarship
- This award recognizes an outstanding student project at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Winning projects can relate to computer science, electrical engineering, or another IEEE field of interest. Only fair finalists may qualify for the award.
- Award: $10,000 payable over four years and a complimentary IEEE student membership
- Apply
Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens with demonstrated financial need. Recipients must study or plan to study computer science full time at an accredited school. High school seniors, first-year college students, and college sophomores may apply. Applicants need a 2.5 GPA or above and should be interested in a paid internship with Lockheed Martin.
- Award: $10,000 (renewable for up to $40,000 total)
- Apply
National Society of High School Scholars STEAM Scholarship
- This award supports high school seniors planning to major in a STEAM discipline. The application requires an academic resume, an educator recommendation, and current transcripts. Applicants must also submit a color headshot and an 500- to 800-word essay.
- Award: $1,000
- Apply
Palantir Future Scholarship
- This scholarship benefits students who identify as members of a racial or ethinc minority. Applicants must attend a bachelor's program in computer science or a related field at an accredited university. Recipients can take part in a remote professional development program.
- Award: $7,000
- Apply
Richard E. Merwin Student Scholarship
- The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society offers this scholarship to recognize student leadership. Full-time undergraduate and graduate students in computer science and related fields can apply. Applicants need a 2.5 GPA or higher and must hold active membership in an IEEE student chapter.
- Award: $1,000 and up
- Apply
Upsilon Pi Epsilon Scholarship Award
- This scholarship accepts undergraduate and graduate applicants who belong to a UPE chapter. Application materials include a UPE advisor recommendation and a statement describing university and UPE chapter involvement. Each UPE chapter may submit one undergraduate and one graduate application.
- Award: $1,000-$3,000
- Apply
UPE/Association for Computing Machinery Scholarship Award
- Applicants must be full-time undergraduate or graduate students in computing and information disciplines. They must also hold membership in an ACM student chapter. Students should demonstrate excellent academic performance and strong faculty recommendations.
- Award: $1,000
- Apply
Graduate Computer Science Scholarships
(ISC)² Graduate Scholarship Program
- Applicants must attend a graduate program focused on information assurance or cybersecurity. Application requirements include one letter of recommendation and a resume or CV. Students must also submit completed essay questions and unofficial transcripts showing a minimum 3.5 GPA.
- Award: $1,000-$5,000
- Apply
American Association for the Advancement of Science Mass Media Science & Engineering Fellowship
- Fellows work as science journalists for ten weeks in the summer. The program accepts undergraduates, graduate students, and postgraduates in computer science and other STEM fields. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or hold visas allowing them to complete paid summer work.
- Award: $8,000 stipend plus travel expenses
- Apply
DOE Computational Science Graduate Fellowship
- The Department of Energy awards this fellowship to students planning full-time doctoral study in computer science and other STEM fields. Application requirements include official transcripts, a green card or U.S. citizenship, references, and a completed program of study.
- Award: Full tuition and fees; $38,000 yearly stipend; $1,000 annual professional development allowance;12-week research practicum experience (renewable up to four years)
- Apply
ISA Educational Foundation Scholarships
- These scholarships support full-time undergraduate and graduate students with a 2.5 GPA or above. Applicants should show potential to contribute to the control and automation fields. Required materials include letters of recommendation and transcripts.
- Award: Varies
- Apply
The National Gem Consortium Ph.D. Engineering and Science Fellowship
- This award benefits undergraduate seniors and graduate students in accredited applied science or engineering programs at GEM member schools. Applicants must belong to a group underrepresented in science and engineering. Students must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and hold a 3.0 GPA or higher. The fellowship requires an internship with a GEM employer the summer after sponsorship.
- Award: Full tuition and fees plus a $16,000 stipend for the first year of the fellowship
- Apply
Computer Science Scholarships for Women
Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship
- This scholarship accepts applications from currently enrolled undergraduates and master's candidates. Applicants must identify as female and major in computer science or a related field. The scholarship requires a strong academic record and proof of leadership and participation in school and community activities.
- Award: $10,000, one-year Creative Cloud subscription membership, and internship interview at Adobe
- Apply
Buildium Women in Technology Scholarship
- Applicants must identify as women and attend an accredited undergraduate or graduate STEM program in the U.S. or Canada. Students must hold good academic standing at their institution. Required materials include an essay, transcripts, and a short video.
- Award: $2,500
- Apply
Generation Google Scholarship for Women in Gaming
- This scholarship encourages women to pursue degrees in gaming. Applicants must attend or plan to attend a full-time, gaming-related program. Graduate and undergraduate students may qualify. Other criteria include financial need, a strong academic record, and leadership potential.
- Award: $10,000
- Apply
Honeywell Scholarship
- The Society of Women Engineers offers this scholarship to women studying computer science and related disciplines. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and members of the Society of Women Engineers. The award requires a 3.5 GPA or above. Members of underrepresented groups and applicants with financial need receive preference.
- Award: $5,000
- Apply
Explore More Scholarships for Women
Computer Science Scholarships for Minority Students
Accenture Native American Scholarship Fund
- Members of an American Indian tribe or Alaska Native group pursuing a computer science degree may qualify for this scholarship. Applicants need a 3.25 GPA or above. Incoming, full-time first-year students can apply. Recipients can renew their award for up to four years.
- Award: Varies
- Apply
AFCEA Undergraduate Diversity Scholarship
- Women and minority STEM majors (including computer science) with at least a 3.0 GPA can apply. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The scholarship encourages applications from students at historically Black colleges and universities.
- Award: $3,000
- Apply
Generation Google Scholarship (North America)
- Computer science majors committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion can apply. Applicants should show financial need and a strong academic record. Required materials include a resume or CV, transcripts, and essay responses. Students must also submit family and household information. Google encourages applications from members of groups underrepresented in the tech industry.
- Award: $10,000
- Apply
Hispanic Scholarship Fund
- This scholarship accepts applications from high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students of Hispanic heritage. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must plan to enroll in a four-year, accredited U.S. school. Students should submit the FAFSA or state-based financial aid forms. U.S. citizens, permanent legal residents, and DACA recipients may qualify.
- Award: $500-$5,000; Access to scholar support and career services
- Apply
Ralph W. Shrader Graduate Diversity Scholarship
- This scholarship provides funding for women and minority students. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in the second semester of a STEM graduate program (including computer science). Application requirements include a 3.5 GPA or higher, official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.
- Award: $3,000
- Apply
Other Financial Aid for Computer Science Degrees
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 86% of students at four-year colleges used financial aid during the 2018-2019 school year. However, only 58% received scholarships in the same period, according to Sallie Mae. While scholarships can cover a significant part of your degree costs, learners can also access other aid options.
Degree-seekers can apply for work-study programs and private or federal loans. Education tax credits can also help reduce educational costs. Learn more about how to pay for a degree here.
Grants provide another way for students to cover computer science degree expenses. Since these awards are similar to scholarships, we explore grant options below.
Computer Science Grants
Like scholarships, grants do not need to be repaid. Students usually qualify for grants based on financial need rather than merit.
Students can apply for Federal Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants. State governments, universities, and private and nonprofit organizations may also offer grants.
Computer science students can also pursue research grants. Organizations offering research grants typically fund projects that match their missions. Applicants must usually submit a research proposal.
The National Science Foundation provides a funding search tool for computer science and engineering students. The IEEE Foundation invites grant applicants to submit projects for certain themes each year.
Find scholarships for LGBTQ computer science students
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Questions About Financial Aid
Are there scholarships for computer science?
Yes. Undergraduate and graduate students can qualify for many computer science scholarships. Scholarship funding sources include foundations, corporations, nonprofit groups, and universities.When should I start applying to scholarships?
Start the scholarship search for computer science programs early. Many organizations offer computer science scholarships for high school seniors.What kind of scholarships are available for computer science?
A variety of scholarships support computer science majors. Many organizations offer scholarships based on criteria like academic merit, financial need, and identity. Students can find minority computer science scholarships and computer science scholarships for women.How do you get a computer science scholarship?
Students can get computer science scholarships by applying for the awards that best match their strengths. Make sure to get strong letters of recommendation and spend time personalizing each application.FAQs
How can I get free scholarships? ›
- Consider your chances. ...
- Check if you need to apply and what the deadline is. ...
- Find out when you'll know if you're successful for an award. ...
- Share your information with Student Finance. ...
- Keep your eyes open for opportunities. ...
- Take care with your application. ...
- Be realistic.
All scholarships and grants at Caltech are need-based, as the Institute does not have a merit aid program. Undergraduate students who fill out a financial aid application will be automatically considered for scholarships and grants from Caltech and the federal government.
Which scholarships are available now? ›- Monash University 2023 Sir John Monash Scholarships for Excellence for International Students. ...
- Kansas State University 2023 Future student scholarships. ...
- Meta 2023 Elevate Coursera Scholarship for International Students.
There's no limit to the number of scholarships a student can apply for or receive.
Is California Institute of Technology better than MIT? ›Caltech and MIT are both prestigious science and technology universities, which means that they're similarly regarded when it comes to university rankings; however, MIT typically beats Caltech on most ranking lists.
Does UCLA offer full ride scholarships? ›Scholarships are merit-based, need-based, and non-need-based monetary awards. They may range from paying a portion of your tuition to fully funding all costs linked to your college education.
How can I get a scholarship to Stanford? ›Eligibility Criteria for Stanford University Scholarships
You must complete not only your Knight-Hennessy Scholars application but also the entire application process including any standardized test that your graduate degree program requires (GMAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, etc.) and if needed, an English proficiency test.
- $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship.
- $2,000 Nitro College Scholarship – No Essay.
- $40,000 BigFuture Scholarships.
- $2,500 Christian Connector Scholarship.
- $5,000 Graduate School Scholarship.
- $2,000 College Repayment Grant.
- Annual Protestant Faith Based College Scholarship.
Germany. A particularly popular country for admission among students from all over the world. No wonder: In Germany almost all universities are free of charge and the country's largest scholarship fund — DAAD — provides a scholarship to cover living expenses.
Can I get scholarship with low GPA? ›In the same way, students having 1.0 to 2.0 GPAs can even apply for scholarships and get rid of the financial crisis. All they need is to narrow down their research and look for universities giving scholarships at such low GPAs.
Are scholarships free? ›
A scholarship is free money that does not have to be paid back. Whether you are in high school or enrolled in college, we can help you research and find college scholarships.
Which scholarship gives the most money? ›| Miss America | Additional Information Amount Awarded: Varies, up to $12,000 Deadline: Varies |
|---|---|
| Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation | Additional Information Amount Awarded: Up to $20,000 Deadline: August |
| Buick Achievers | Additional Information Amount Awarded: $25,000 Deadline: Varies |
Dear aspirant, If you are applying for NSP scholarships then you cannot apply for two scholarships at a time as this is one of criteria for the nsp that you can avail any other scholrship if you are taking one of the scholarship.
Can a student get 2 scholarship? ›You can apply for multiple scholarships but will get only one in a year if you get selected.
What GPA does MIT take? ›To have the best shot of getting in, you should aim for the 75th percentile, with a 1570 SAT or a 36 ACT. You should also have a 4.17 GPA or higher. If your GPA is lower than this, you need to compensate with a higher SAT/ACT score.
Why is MIT ranked so high? ›Just as the school's name suggests, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is most well-known for its technology-related programs. The school also excels in the STEM field more broadly. In 2022, QS World University Rankings ranked MIT #1 worldwide in 12 different subject areas.
Should I go to Harvard or MIT? ›Conclusion: Making Your MIT vs Harvard Decision
MIT and Harvard are equally prestigious universities based in Cambridge, a nearby city of Boston. While MIT focuses primarily on science, math, and technology, Harvard offers a broader variety of liberal arts and sciences programs.
| GPA and test scores of middle 25%-75% students | |
|---|---|
| High School GPA | 4.18 - 4.32 |
| ACT Composite Score | 29 - 32 |
| ACT English Language Arts | 30 - 35 |
| SAT Evidence Based Reading & Writing | 670 - 760 |
Most families pay less than the full price, and 45 percent of our undergraduate students pay no tuition at all. We offer an array of housing options and meal plans — as well as financial aid for housing — so that you have flexibility as to how much you pay.
What is the difference between financial aid and scholarship? ›In general, grants are given based on financial-need, while scholarships are merit-based and awarded to students based on their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, field of study, and more. Loans are the more commonly-used type of financial assistance.
What GPA is required for Stanford? ›
There is no minimum GPA or test score, nor is there any specific number of AP or honors courses you must have on your transcript in order to have your application reviewed or be admitted to Stanford.
Is Stanford generous with financial aid? ›A Stanford Education is Affordable. Stanford offers comprehensive, need-based financial aid that makes it possible for all admitted undergraduate students to attend — and we do not expect students to borrow to meet their need.
Is Stanford free for low income? ›For parents with total annual income below $75,000 and typical assets for this income range, Stanford will not expect a parent contribution toward educational costs.
What GPA qualifies for scholarships? ›Some scholarship committees only consider applicants whose GPA meets a certain threshold. Minimum requirements range from around 2.0 on the lower end to 3.75 or higher for competitive academic scholarships. Generally speaking, a 3.0 GPA or higher will give you a decent shot at qualifying for a variety of scholarships.
When should you start applying for scholarships? ›Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so if you're in high school now, you should be researching and applying for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior years.
Which university gives free scholarships in USA? ›Stanford University Scholarships
Stanford University Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is offered for Masters and Ph. D studies. This scholarship is offering full tuition fees, traveling allowance, Living allowance and academic expenses.
Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship – High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA may apply on our website in August of their senior year until the October 31 deadline. 150 Coca-Cola Scholars are selected each year to receive this $20,000 scholarship.
How hard is it to get a full scholarship? ›How hard is it to get a full ride scholarship? Less than 1 percent of students get full ride scholarships, showing just how difficult it is to earn one. However, with the right background, proper planning and by knowing where to look, your chances of landing a full ride scholarship can increase.
What is the easiest scholarship for international students? ›- Fullbright Scholarships. ...
- The American Association of University Women International Fellowship. ...
- Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship | Scholarships For International Students. ...
- Chevening Scholarships | Scholarships For International Students.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships are granted for graduate study in any subject at Cambridge to international students all over the world and covers university fees, maintenance allowance, air fare allowance, etc.
Which country study visa is easy to get? ›
A: Undoubtedly, you need to put some effort to acquire a student visa for any country, however, the most prominent options to accomplish easy attainment of student visa as an Indian student are Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
› student-info › how-get-... ›How to Get a Full Scholarship
Home Plan Scholarships The Easiest Scholarships to Get (A Guide)
The 11 Easiest Scholarships to Apply For International Students ...
- $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship.
- $2,000 Nitro College Scholarship – No Essay.
- $2,500 Christian Connector Scholarship.
- $5,000 Graduate School Scholarship.
- $2,000 College Repayment Grant.
- Annual Protestant Faith Based College Scholarship.
- Annual Catholic College Scholarship.
A scholarship is free money that does not have to be paid back. Whether you are in high school or enrolled in college, we can help you research and find college scholarships.
How can I study in USA for free? ›...
How to Study for Free in the USA?
- Prepare an Excellent Application.
- Attend Tuition-Free Universities.
- Apply for Scholarships.
- Look for Part-Time Job Opportunities.
Some scholarship committees only consider applicants whose GPA meets a certain threshold. Minimum requirements range from around 2.0 on the lower end to 3.75 or higher for competitive academic scholarships. Generally speaking, a 3.0 GPA or higher will give you a decent shot at qualifying for a variety of scholarships.
Which scholarship gives the most money? ›| Miss America | Additional Information Amount Awarded: Varies, up to $12,000 Deadline: Varies |
|---|---|
| Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation | Additional Information Amount Awarded: Up to $20,000 Deadline: August |
| Buick Achievers | Additional Information Amount Awarded: $25,000 Deadline: Varies |
- Know where to look. ...
- Prepare in advance. ...
- Work hard and keep motivated. ...
- Make yourself stand out from other applicants. ...
- Read the application instructions carefully. ...
- Submit an exceptional scholarship essay or cover letter. ...
- Be realistic.
Full-ride academic scholarship: Be at the top of your class with a great GPA, take AP/honors classes, and get perfect (or close to perfect) SAT or ACT scores. Along with academic merit, it also helps to also have leadership skills or community involvement, too (see below).
When should you start applying for scholarships? ›Some deadlines are as early as a year before college starts, so if you're in high school now, you should be researching and applying for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior years.
Do scholarships need to be repaid? ›
Just like grants, scholarships do not require repayment and are awarded for almost anything.
What is the best type of scholarship? ›Full-Ride Scholarships
A full-ride scholarship is an all-expense ride to college, and it's the most coveted among all the different types of scholarships. Most full-ride scholarships are specific to a school, but there are a few organizations that don't restrict the use of funds to any specific school.
The maximum Federal Pell Grant award is $6,895 for the 2022–23 award year (July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023). your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.
Which university is free in USA? ›The US Service Academies are among the tuition-free universities in the USA. There are five United States Academies. They are U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
Which university gives free scholarships in USA? ›Stanford University Scholarships
Stanford University Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is offered for Masters and Ph. D studies. This scholarship is offering full tuition fees, traveling allowance, Living allowance and academic expenses.
- California State University, San Bernardino.
- Southeast Missouri State University.
- Arkansas State University.
- University of Wisconsin.
- Brooklyn College.
- University of Louisiana–Monroe.
- Southwest Minnesota State University.
- Northwest Missouri State University.