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
Is scholarships a legitimate website? ›
Q: Is scholarships com legit? A: Yes, Scholarships.com is a legit organization.
Does NEC give scholarships? ›Each year, more than 90% of our students receive scholarships. NEC scholarships are typically renewable for the normal expected length of a student's degree program.
Do scholarships cover laptops? ›Remember, scholarship money can be used to pay for any education expenses deemed necessary by your school. This could include books, laptops, lab equipment, housing, and more.
Can scholarships be used for computers? ›If you received grant or scholarship money to attend college, you may be able to purchase a laptop with your funds. Some financial aid packages include a stipend specifically reserved for laptops, books, and other school-related expenses. Federal Pell Grants can also be used to purchase laptops (in a roundabout way).
Who is eligible for NEC scholarship? ›3.7 The scholarship shall be admissible to the students whose parent / guardian's annual income from all sources shall not exceed Rs 8.0 lakh. The income certificate issued by the competent authority shall be furnished by the candidate.
What college gives you a free laptop? ›U of M Crookston offers every college student a laptop from day one. The University of Minnesota-Crookston offers on-campus students an HP laptop computer. In 2022, This school was ranked the #1 Top Public School and #25 Regional Colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News.
Do scholarships need to be repaid? ›Just like grants, scholarships do not require repayment and are awarded for almost anything.
What happens if you get too much scholarship money? ›Usually, a school will first subtract funds from the student loan component of the package, leaving any grant or work study money alone. However, students should always clarify with the school when they report a scholarship that they would like student loans removed from the package first.
Can I buy a computer with financial aid? ›Financial aid helps students cover tuition, room and board, travel expenses to the school, textbooks, school supplies, and even laptops. That's right! You can actually use your financial aid to buy a laptop if it's something you need for school.
Can I spend my financial aid money on anything? ›Anything pertaining to your schooling is an appropriate use of financial aid. School supplies, a computer, travel costs to and from campus, books, tuition, childcare expenses (if applicable), and tutoring are all reasonable purchases for a serious student.
Can scholarships be used for living expenses? ›
Living expenses
Other education expenses associated with going to college can include transportation, technology, and healthcare. Scholarships for living expenses may cover these costs, but it's important to understand the types of living expenses your scholarship money can cover before you spend it.
- $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship.
- $2,000 Nitro College Scholarship – No Essay.
- $40,000 BigFuture Scholarships.
- $2,500 Christian Connector Scholarship.
- $2,000 College Repayment Grant.
- Annual Protestant Faith Based College Scholarship.
- Annual Catholic College Scholarship.
- 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.
Federal Student Aid recommends that students start researching for scholarships the summer after your junior year of high school. If you have time and energy, you should even start before that. Every scholarship has different rules and different deadlines. Some even require submissions a year prior to starting college.
How many scholarships should I apply for? ›How many scholarships should you apply for? The short answer is that you should apply to as many as you can, as early as you can. This means that you need to be looking early, and finding out when deadlines are. But remember, you don't want to make a career out of scholarship searching and application.
How do I know what scholarships will suit me? ›The best way to find scholarships or internships is to use a personalized search, like Fastweb, that compares your student profile with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches. Fastweb has the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database.
How do I find scholarships on Google? ›- Step 1: Outline your goals. ...
- Step 2: Start a spreadsheet to track your progress. ...
- Step 3: Use the Google search bar. ...
- Step 4: Look at the featured snippets — and beyond. ...
- Step 5: Research pertinent scholarships and watch for fakes. ...
- Step 6: Apply for the right scholarships.
| Eligible Courses | NEC Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
| Diploma | NEC scholarship amount INR 20,000 per annum. |
| Undergraduate Degree | A scholarship amount of INR 22,000 per annum. |
| Postgraduate Degree | A scholarship amount of INR 25,000 per annum. |
| PhD/ MPhil | A scholarship amount of INR 30,000 per annum. |
| Name | North Eastern Council- NEC Scholarship |
|---|---|
| Amount | Up to 30,000 INR p.a. |
| Eligibility | Students of Manipal, Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim |
| NEC Scholarship 2022 (Tentative) | August 2021 |
| Closing Date for 2022 | January 20, 2022 |
Who Can Apply through National Scholarship Portal 2022? The meritorious students of SC, ST, OBC, and other reserved categories can apply for NSP 2022 pre matric and post-matric scholarships. Single girl children can apply for PG Indira Gandhi Scholarship offered by UGC through the National scholarship portal login.
What information should you never give out when applying for a scholarship? ›
If an application asks for money, walk away. Don't give out bank or credit card information. Any financial data you provide should come from IRS or FAFSA data. Legitimate providers do not ask for bank information.
Are chegg scholarships legitimate? ›It's a strong option for students who want a modern platform to find and apply to a wide variety of scholarships. Rounding out the “Best of the Best,” Chegg Scholarships earned a score of 80 out of 100 across our Funding, Trustworthiness, and User Experience categories.
Is scholarship Detective Legit? ›Is Scholarship Detective Legit? Scholarship Detective is a scholarship search engine. The company maintains a large database of opportunities and allows people to search them for free.
Is Fastweb trustworthy? ›Fastweb is a trustworthy website that's been around for 20 years. The scholarships are probably not a scam, but are probably very competitive.
What is the easiest scholarship to get? ›- $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship.
- $2,000 Nitro College Scholarship – No Essay.
- $40,000 BigFuture Scholarships.
- $2,500 Christian Connector Scholarship.
- $2,000 College Repayment Grant.
- Annual Protestant Faith Based College Scholarship.
- Annual Catholic College Scholarship.
- Raise Your GPA for More Scholarships. Many scholarships have requirements surrounding GPA levels. ...
- Raise Your ACT / SAT Score. ...
- Raise Your Class Rank. ...
- File the FAFSA. ...
- Participate in Community Service. ...
- Brush Up on Your Essay Skills.
The best way to find scholarships or internships is to use a personalized search, like Fastweb, that compares your student profile with a database of awards. Only those awards that fit your profile are identified as matches. Fastweb has the largest, most accurate and most frequently updated scholarship database.
Does scholarship owl cost money? ›ScholarshipOwl is a freemium service. Users can access the scholarship matches at no cost to them. However, if you want certain features, you'll need to upgrade to the premium service.
Is niche a good scholarship website? ›Niche is 100 percent legit and people really do win each month. While you definitely should be on the lookout for scholarship fraud (better safe than sorry), rest assured that Niche scholarships are the real deal.
Do people actually get scholarships from niche? ›Throughout the year, Niche gives over $75,000 in scholarships to students who are pursuing their degree in higher education. In January 2022, 10 students won $7,000 to use toward their college expenses.
What is Nitro scholarship? ›
Description: The Nitro College Scholarship is available for U.S. high school students and college freshmen. This scholarship is offered every month. This $2,000 award is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, age 17 or older at the time of entry.
Is Grant me worth it? ›GrantMe is a great organization. Through their 1-1 support sessions and essay editing services, I feel confident that I will get into the university program of my choice. I would definitely recommend GrantMe to any students that would like to make their university applications stand out.
How good is Fastweb for scholarships? ›We have a full scholarship research team that verifies and investigates each and every scholarship included within Fastweb's extensive scholarship database. That's why you can always trust that the scholarships you match to on Fastweb are 100% legitimate.
Does Fastweb give scholarships? ›Each time you log into Fastweb you'll be greeted with new scholarships that are a perfect match. Organize your scholarship matches with to mark what you've already applied for and icons as a reminder to apply for your favorite scholarships.