10 Computer Science Scholarships For College Students

If you’re planning to major in computer science, you’re probably curious about where to find computer science scholarships that match your financial needs and academic goals. It can feel overwhelming to look for these opportunities, especially when you’re busy gearing up for classes or have already started.

To make things easier, here’s a list of some of the great scholarships to get you started. While it’s not an all-inclusive list, it should give you a solid foundation to help you discover even more scholarships if you need to.

• 10 Scholarships for Computer Science Majors
• How to Apply for Computer Science Scholarships
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

10 Scholarships for Computer Science Majors

Computer science scholarships are a great way to cut down your education costs without taking on debt. But with so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start.

The good news is that there are plenty of scholarships tailored specifically for computer science students, including programs designed for underrepresented groups. Take some time to explore these opportunities and find the ones that suit your needs.

Just keep in mind that many scholarships come with specific eligibility requirements, which means you might have to dig through quite a few before finding the ones you qualify for. But with a little effort, you can discover some great options to help fund your education.

1. Association for Iron & Steel Technology Steel Intern Scholarship

• Award: $12,000 (+ paid internship during the summer)
• Deadline: October 14, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • University sophomores, juniors, and seniors planning to attend grad school.
  • Full-time student in a 4-year undergraduate (at least 12 credits) or graduate program (at least 8 credits)
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale)
  • Citizen of a USMCA country (USA, Canada, Mexico)

The highest-scoring applicant for this scholarship will receive the Premier Scholarship, which includes a one-year award of $12,000 and a paid summer internship (before the scholarship starts). This opportunity is similar to many computer science scholarships in that it not only provides financial support but also offers work experience.

To qualify, you’ll need to commit to the internship at a steel-related company in North America, which may require you to relocate. Your application, essay, and recommendation letter should show a clear passion for the iron and steel industry.

2. Stantec Equity & Diversity Scholarship

• Award: $12,000 (+ paid internship during the summer)
• Deadline: October 14, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • Enrolled in a college, university, or other post-secondary institution for the upcoming academic year.
  • Pursuing a degree in a STEAM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts/Architecture, or Math).
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

The Stantec Equity & Diversity Scholarship is all about supporting a diverse group of talented students. It aims to create an industry where everyone can thrive both academically and professionally. Each year, Stantec awards $200,000 in scholarships, with a focus on providing financial aid to students from historically underrepresented groups, including Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). Similar to many computer science scholarships, this scholarship encourages students to pursue fields where diversity and inclusion are highly valued.

The number of scholarships given will depend on the needs of each applicant, with awards ranging from $1,500 to $12,000. On top of that, there are 10 paid internships available each year at different locations.

3. NSA Stokes Educational Scholarship Program

• Award: up to $30,000 per year
• Deadline: October 15, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • Maintain a 2.75 GPA for your freshman year, then a 3.0 GPA for the rest of your studies
  • Major in computer science (focus on areas like programming, security, design, etc.) or computer/electrical engineering (work on research, design, testing, and system analysis)
  • Must be a U.S. citizen and eligible for a security clearance
  • 3.0 GPA or higher
  • SAT score of 1200+ or ACT score of 25+.
  • A high school senior at the time of application

The Stokes Educational Scholarship Program is open to high school seniors with a strong background in computer science or electrical engineering, and who plan to major in those fields. This program offers up to $30,000 per year for tuition and provides a paid summer internship at the NSA for three months. Like other computer science scholarships, this opportunity financially supports students while offering hands-on experience. If you’re more than 75 miles away, they even cover housing and other entitlements.

In addition, you’ll get a salary year-round and have a guaranteed job at the NSA after graduation. The benefits are solid, including paid leave, holidays, insurance, and a 401K.

4. NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing

• Award: $2500 – $10,000
• Deadline: October 29, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • Must be 13 years or older when creating an account.
  • Either have parent/guardian approval by the deadline or be 18 or older when applying.
  • Must attend school in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or on a U.S. overseas military base.
  • Cannot be an NCWIT employee or have immediate family ties to NCWIT employees, staff, contractors, or board members.

The NCWIT Aspirations in Computing (AiC) High School Award recognizes 9th to 12th grade women, genderqueer, and non-binary students for their accomplishments and interests in computing. It’s all about celebrating your passion for technology and encouraging you to keep exploring what excites you in this field.

The winners of these computer science scholarships are chosen based on their skills and future goals in tech, which can include things like coding experience, involvement in computing-related activities, leadership roles, perseverance through challenges, and plans for the future. Since 2007, over 25,000 students have earned an AiC Award.

5. The Steel Root Scholarship

• Award: $10,000
• Deadline: October 31, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • Must be a high school junior.
  • GPA of 2.5 or higher.
  • Planning to major in fields like IT, computer science, software engineering, data analysis, or similar programs (including hardware, software, or networking certifications).
  • Must plan to enroll full-time in a two- or four-year college, university, or vocational/technical school after high school graduation.

The Steel Root Scholarship is one of those computer science scholarships designed to inspire talented high school juniors to dive into the growing field of cybersecurity, where skilled professionals are in high demand. You’ll get $10,000, plus access to free college prep and career services through Leap for Education’s College Success Program. The funds can be used for tuition, room and board, supplies, books, or even transportation.

You’ll also be paired with a C3 cybersecurity professional who will mentor you through your senior year of high school and freshman year of college, meeting with you quarterly to guide you on your path.

6. National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholars Program

• Award: $10,000
• Deadline: November 1, 2024
• Qualifications:
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • Open to high school seniors through graduate students.
  • Must plan to pursue a STEM career, preferably with a focus on space-related fields, and attend an accredited U.S. college or university.
  • Cannot have previously spoken at the Dr. Robert H. Goddard Memorial Dinner.

Since 2013, the National Space Club and Foundation has given you a unique opportunity to deliver the keynote speech at the prestigious Goddard Memorial Dinner, one of the top events in the space industry. To qualify, you’ll need to be passionate about pursuing a career in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), have strong academic performance, and be confident in your public speaking skills. Just like other computer science scholarships, this opportunity provides financial support and the chance to shine in a professional setting.

In addition to the honor of speaking at the event, you’ll receive a $20,000 scholarship. This is open to U.S. citizens, from high school seniors to graduate students, who are enrolled in accredited schools and plan to build a future in STEM. Keep in mind, the $20,000 scholarship is strictly for tuition during the 2025-2026 academic year.

7. SLAS Graduate Education Fellowship Grant

• Award: $10,000
• Deadline: November 4, 2024
• Qualifications:
  • Only educational organizations and academic institutions that offer graduate programs in quantitative biosciences or life sciences R&D can apply.
  • Students themselves can’t apply for the grant directly.
  • The application must be submitted by the student’s academic institution.

Considered one of the most accessible computer science scholarships, the SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) grant supports exceptional students pursuing graduate degrees in life sciences research and development.

Each year, SLAS awards one grant of up to $50,000 (for a maximum of two years) to deserving students enrolled in a graduate program. The grant is given directly to the educational institution on behalf of the student. This program reflects SLAS’s mission to promote innovation in laboratory science and technology while supporting future leaders in the field.

8. Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholarship

• Award: $25,000 – $250,000
• Deadline: November 7, 2024
• Qualifications:
  • Must be over 13 with parental/guardian consent, or be 18 years or older to apply.
  • Open to students in their final year of secondary school in the U.S. and its territories, regardless of citizenship.
  • U.S. citizens living abroad can also apply.
  • Applicants must complete independent science research at school, a research institution, in the field, or at home.
  • Cannot have previously entered the Regeneron STS competition.

This is probably one of the country’s most well-known computer science scholarships. Every year, around 1,900 high school students enter the Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), presenting their original research in key scientific areas. What makes Regeneron STS unique is its focus on discovering and inspiring the brightest young scientists among high school seniors across the U.S. To participate, students must follow the official rules, which cover eligibility, ethics, and guidelines for scientific research.

Regeneron STS highlights future science leaders and awards $3.1 million in prizes each year to students and their schools. The top prize is $250,000—the largest science award available to U.S. high school students—with additional prizes awarded throughout the competition.

9. Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship

• Award: $40,000
• Deadline: December 15, 2024
• Qualifications:
  • Aiming for a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field from an accredited 4-year college (or transferring from a 2-year college).
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S.
  • You’re a high school senior with at least a 2.3 cumulative GPA.

Each student will receive up to $40,000 to cover tuition at the college of their choice, along with a paid internship at Amazon after their freshman year to gain real-world experience. This makes it one of the most generous computer science scholarships. During this internship, you’ll get hands-on learning and mentorship from Amazon leaders.

You’ll also have opportunities to network with other scholars and Amazon employees, develop important skills, access mental health resources, and even tap into an emergency grant fund if unexpected financial challenges arise that might affect your ability to stay in school.

10. Scarlett Family Foundation Scholarship

• Award: $30,000
• Deadline: December 15, 2024
• Qualifications: 
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED from a qualifying Middle Tennessee county.
  • Plan to enroll full-time as a college freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior for the next academic year.
  • Demonstrate financial need based on a 1040 tax return and the tuition costs at your intended college or university.
  • Plan to pursue a Business or STEM degree at a 4-year, non-profit college or university.
  • High school seniors need a minimum ACT score of 21 and a GPA of 2.5 or higher.

Joe and Dorothy Scarlett firmly believe in the power of education to change lives. In 2006, they, along with their children, turned this belief into action by creating the Scarlett Family Foundation. Their goal was to offer merit- and need-based scholarships to students in Middle Tennessee who are pursuing business degrees.

Since its start, the Foundation has expanded its reach. In 2008, it began offering grants to partner with nonprofits. It focused on providing high-quality education for all Middle Tennessee students. These grants support initiatives such as college and career readiness, leadership development for principals and teachers, literacy, and advocacy.

These computer science scholarships range from $2,500 to $30,000 per academic year and cover expenses like tuition, fees, books, and necessary supplies. Payments are made directly to the college or university, not to the student.

How to Apply for Computer Science Scholarships

Applying for computer science scholarships isn’t the same as applying to college. Each scholarship has its own deadlines, requirements, and documents. To make sure you don’t miss out, here’s a simple approach:

• Start early. Many scholarships open applications in January or February, but some start as early as the summer before. It’s a good idea to begin your search about a year ahead of time.
• Expand your search. Don’t just focus on computer science scholarships. You can find more options by looking for merit-based or identity-based scholarships, like those for women or minority students, regardless of your major.
• Create a scholarship list. As you research, keep track of scholarships that seem like a good fit. Organize them by deadlines so you don’t miss any.
• Prepare materials. Even if the application window isn’t open yet, you can get ready by updating your resume, gathering letters of recommendation, and requesting transcripts. You can also start drafting essays tailored to each scholarship.
• Apply to multiple scholarships. Increase your chances by applying to as many scholarships as possible, even the smaller ones. A few $100-$500 scholarships can add up, and those smaller ones often have less competition.
• Have a backup plan. Computer science scholarships can cover a lot, but it’s not guaranteed. Make sure you have a plan for other funding options just in case you don’t get as much as you expected.

This proactive approach can help you stay organized and increase your chances of landing the right scholarships!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best computer science colleges?

Three of the best computer science colleges are:

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – Known for cutting-edge research and innovation in computer science.
• Stanford University – A leading institution with strong ties to Silicon Valley, offering excellent CS programs.
• Carnegie Mellon University – Famous for its intensive computer science curriculum and research opportunities.

These schools consistently rank highly for their strong computer science departments.

2. Does Google give out computer science scholarships?

Yes, Google offers computer science scholarships, including the Google Scholarship for Students of Computer Science. Examples include the Generation Google Scholarship, which supports students pursuing degrees in computer science with a focus on increasing diversity in the tech industry. These scholarships provide financial support and aim to encourage underrepresented groups in tech.

3. Is computer science a difficult program?

Yes, computer science can be a challenging program due to its combination of theoretical and practical components. The curriculum often includes complex topics such as algorithms, data structures, programming languages, software development, artificial intelligence, and computer systems, which require strong problem-solving and logical thinking skills.

Takeaways

It’s important to begin researching scholarships well in advance—sometimes as early as a year before the application deadline. This allows you to find the best opportunities and stay on top of deadlines.

• While many scholarships are specific to computer science, there are plenty of opportunities based on merit, identity, or interests. Expanding your search to include scholarships for women, minorities, or specific traits can increase your chances of finding the right one.
• Even small scholarships can make a difference, and applying to as many as possible increases your chances of success.
• Scholarships can help with a large portion of tuition, but they’re not guaranteed to cover everything. It’s essential to have backup financial plans in place, such as other funding sources, in case you don’t secure enough scholarship money.
• Maximize your resources and chances of winning these scholarships by partnering with a college admissions expert and getting help preparing for college application seasons and scholarship applications.