10 Scholarships for Aspiring Computer Science Majors
Ready to launch your career in computer science? These 10 scholarships provide financial support and open doors to mentorships, internships, and invaluable industry experience.
Embarking on the journey to become a computer science major opens doors to a world of innovation and opportunity. From coding groundbreaking apps to tackling cybersecurity challenges, the possibilities are endless. But let’s face it: college tuition can be daunting. Thankfully, there are scholarships designed specifically for aspiring computer science students like you—scholarships that can help turn your dreams into reality while easing your financial burden.
Whether you're passionate about artificial intelligence, game development, or programming languages, these scholarships are designed to support your ambitions and reward your hard work. With funding available from tech companies, non-profits, and educational institutions, there's a wealth of opportunities waiting to be explored.
The following list highlights 10 scholarships for aspiring Computer Science majors that could help you on your path to a future in tech. Get ready to apply and secure your place in the ever-evolving world of computer science!
1. Amazon Future Career Scholarship
The Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity for high school seniors interested in computer science. It offers up to $40,000 in tuition support over four years and includes a paid summer internship at Amazon. This scholarship is designed to empower students from underrepresented communities who are pursuing a degree in computer science or engineering. It not only helps with college expenses but also provides invaluable professional experience and mentorship, making it an excellent opportunity for students passionate about tech.
Provider: Amazon.com, Inc
Amount: Up to $40,000 ($10,000 per year)
Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors who plan to major in computer science or related fields, with a minimum GPA of 2.3 and demonstrated financial need.
The Microsoft Imagine Cup, a global tech competition by Microsoft, challenges students to develop impactful AI-driven solutions. Participants can win up to $100,000 for their teams, plus mentorship from Microsoft’s leadership, including CEO Satya Nadella. The competition is open to high school and college students and focuses on building entrepreneurial and technical skills.
The 2024 competition included stages like the Qualifying Phase (October 16, 2023 - January 24, 2024), Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Submission (January 26 - February 9), and World Championship in April, where the top three teams competed globally at Microsoft Build. It's an exciting opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs and developers to showcase their ideas, learn from industry experts, and make a difference in the world of tech innovation.
Provider: Microsoft Corporation
Amount: Up to $100,000 (per team)
Eligibility: Students enrolled in high school or college, at least 16 years old, and focused on AI projects. Teams can have up to four members.
3. Generation Google Scholarship (North America)
The Generation Google Scholarship offers financial support of $10,000 USD (or $5,000 CAD in Canada) for students pursuing degrees in computer science, computer engineering, or related fields. Open to students from historically underrepresented groups, this scholarship provides financial support and mentorship from Google engineers, helping recipients not only fund their education but also gain valuable industry connections. If you're looking to break into tech and build your future with the backing of one of the world's most influential companies, this is your chance to shine.
Provider: Google LLC
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate students or high school seniors planning to study computer science. Must be from an underrepresented group in tech.
4. Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship
The Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship Program is an exciting opportunity for students pursuing degrees in engineering or computer science who are passionate about innovation and problem-solving. Each year, the program awards $10,000 scholarships to 200 high school and college students, helping to pave the way for the next generation of tech leaders. In addition to financial support, scholarship recipients gain access to mentoring opportunities and can potentially intern with Lockheed Martin, giving them a head start in their careers.
Provider: Lockheed Martin Corporation
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: High school senior that intends to study computer science (or related field) at a college or university; GPA 2.5 or higher; demonstrated financial need; interest in a paid internship at Lockheed Martin.
5. National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholars Program
The National Space Club and Foundation Keynote Scholars Program awards $20,000 to a student who demonstrates excellence in STEM and public speaking. The recipient will also have the unique opportunity to deliver the keynote address at the prestigious National Space Club and Foundation’s Goddard Memorial Dinner. This scholarship recognizes academic excellence and leadership, making it an ideal opportunity for students aiming to make an impact in space exploration and STEM fields.
Provider: National Space Club & Foundation
Amount: $20,000
Eligibility: U.S. citizens ranging from high school seniors to graduate students. Applicants must pursue or plan to pursue a STEM-related field and attend an accredited U.S. college or university. The selection process emphasizes academic excellence and strong public speaking skills.
7. Betty Stevens Frecknall Scholarship
The Betty Stevens-Frecknall Scholarship is a national award that supports full-time undergraduate students pursuing degrees in computer science, information technology, or related fields. Sponsored by the Foundation for IT Education, this scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and dedication to the field of technology. With a focus on supporting future leaders in IT, the scholarship helps ease financial pressures while encouraging students to pursue their dreams in the ever-expanding world of tech. Recipients can use the funds to support tuition and other education-related expenses.
Provider: Foundation for IT Education
Amount: Varies
Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are full-time college students, have completed at least one semester at an accredited institution, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must be pursuing degrees in computer science or related fields.
8. IEEE Presidents' Scholarship
The IEEE Presidents’ Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for high school innovators in engineering, technology, and computing. If you've ever dreamed of showcasing your groundbreaking project at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), this scholarship not only offers $10,000 to fund your future studies but also connects you to the globally influential IEEE network. Applicants must demonstrate creativity and technical excellence through a project, including a detailed report on its objectives, design, and implementation. This scholarship is a significant boost for young engineers ready to shape the future of technology and make a real-world impact.
Provider: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: Students must be finalists at the Regeneron ISEF event to be eligible for the award
The GeneTex Scholarship offers a $2,000 award to students pursuing degrees in life sciences or STEM-related fields. The scholarship is granted biannually, with application cycles occurring in both July and December. It aims to support students with a demonstrated passion for STEM, including fields like computer science, biology, engineering, and mathematics. The selection process emphasizes academic excellence, extracurricular involvement, and a personal statement that outlines the applicant’s commitment to STEM. This scholarship provides financial relief to help students achieve their educational and research goals.
Provider: GeneTex, Inc.
Amount: $2,000 (awarded twice a year)
Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing STEM degrees, enrolled full-time at an accredited institution. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be in good academic standing. International students are also eligible to apply.
10. The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program
The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program offers full tuition coverage, annual stipends, internships, and guaranteed employment with the Department of Defense (DoD) after graduation. The program supports students pursuing undergraduate, master's, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields critical to national security, such as computer science, engineering, mathematics, and cybersecurity. It's ideal for students eager to contribute their skills to national security while receiving financial support for their education. SMART scholars gain hands-on experience and secure a career path within the defense sector.
Provider: U.S. Department of Defense
Amount: Full tuition, annual stipends ranging from $30,000 to $46,000, and other educational expenses.
Eligibility: U.S. citizens pursuing a STEM degree at an accredited institution. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and commit to working with the DoD after graduation.
If you’re looking to build a project/research paper in the field of AI & ML, consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI is founded by Harvard graduate students. Through the programs, you get a chance to work 1:1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn AI & ML with us. You can apply here!
Image Source - Microsoft Logo