Scholarships and resources for women in STEM

Despite progress in recent years, women remain underrepresented across many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines. While more women are pursuing degrees in these fields, challenges like limited mentorship, gender bias, and the rising cost of education continue to create barriers.

That’s where women in STEM scholarships come in. From national programs to field-specific awards, scholarships for women in STEM provide critical financial support and open the door to educational and professional opportunities. Whether you’re just starting your studies or working toward professional licensure, these resources can help you move your goals forward. 

In this article, we’ll cover some of the top STEM scholarships for women, including targeted scholarships for women in engineering, and highlight key professional organizations that offer mentorship programs, networking, and career development for women in STEM. 

Scholarships for women in STEM

Paying for a STEM education can be challenging, but there are countless scholarships for women in STEM designed to ease the financial burden. These women in STEM scholarships range from nationally competitive awards to field-specific opportunities–such as scholarships for women in engineering and architecture. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, STEM scholarships for women can help reduce costs and create pathways to long-term academic and career success.

General STEM scholarships for women

The following scholarships for women in STEM are available for those pursuing any STEM-related field: 

• Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Scholarships: SWE awards over $1 million annually to women studying engineering, technology, and computing at ABET-accredited institutions. Undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply. 
• BHW Group Women in STEM Scholarship: BHW offers a $3,000 award to women pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in STEM at an accredited U.S. college or university. 
• Aysen Tunca Memorial Scholarship: Female undergraduate students majoring in STEM fields, preferably those from disadvantaged backgrounds or first-generation college students, are encouraged to apply for this $2,500 scholarship. Applicants must be members of the Society of Physics Students. 
• Hyundai Women in STEM Scholarship: Hyundai is awarding five scholarships of $10,000 each, open to U.S. high school seniors and college undergraduates who identify as female and are pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field.

Scholarships for women in engineering and architecture

If you’re pursuing a career in engineering or architecture, these scholarships for women in engineering and related fields are designed to support your path and professional goals:

• Virginia Heinlein Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship offers $4,000 to women majoring in engineering, mathematics, or biological or physical sciences. Applicants must be full-time undergraduate students. 
• Houzz Women in Architecture Scholarship: Houzz supports and encourages female students studying architecture or architectural engineering at the undergraduate or graduate level to apply for this $2,500 award. 
• Center for Architecture Design Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship supports students with high academic performance and financial need. Students seeking their first professional degree in architecture or related design disciplines from an accredited school within New York State are eligible to apply.
• IEEE Women in Engineering International Scholarship: This $2,500 award from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers is available to female students at pre-university, undergraduate, or graduate levels pursuing engineering degrees.

Professional organizations and support networks for women in STEM

Beyond financial aid, joining a professional organization can open doors to mentorship, networking, leadership training, and exclusive scholarship opportunities. For women pursuing degrees and careers in engineering, architecture, and other STEM fields, these communities provide invaluable support and long-term career benefits. Here are some of the most impactful organizations and resources available:

• Society of Women Engineers: SWE is one of the largest global organizations dedicated to empowering women in engineering and technology. In addition to offering over $1.5 million in annual scholarships, SWE provides professional development webinars, local chapter events, and an annual conference featuring career fairs, leadership training, and networking opportunities. 
• Association for Women in Science (AWIS): AWIS supports women across all STEM disciplines. Members gain access to mentorship programs, research advocacy resources, and professional advancement workshops. The organization also publishes insights on workplace equity and inclusion.
• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) - Women in Engineering: ASCE offers targeted programming for women in civil engineering, including leadership panels, mentorship programs, and technical workshops. Students can join their university’s ASCE chapter for early exposure to networking and internship opportunities.
• American Institute of Architects (AIA) - Women in Architecture: For women pursuing architecture, AIA provides professional advocacy, continuing education, and local chapter events. Many regional AIA chapters host mentorship programs, design competitions, and scholarships specifically for women and underrepresented groups in architecture. 
• Women in Engineering ProActive Network (WEPAN): WEPAN is a national network that works to advance cultures of inclusion and diversity in engineering higher education and workplaces. It offers research-driven tools, virtual learning labs, and institutional support to promote gender equity in engineering. 
• American Association of University Women (AAUW): AAUW offers fellowships, grants, and research-backed advocacy focused on closing gender gaps in education and the workforce. Members benefit from leadership programs, salary negotiation workshops, and STEM-specific resources at both the local and national levels. 

How to maximize these opportunities

Earning a scholarship or joining a professional organization is just the beginning. To get the most value from these resources, it’s important to take a proactive approach. Whether you’re an undergraduate engineering student or pursuing licensure in architecture, the strategies below can help you fully leverage the support available to women in STEM. 

Start early and stay organized

Scholarship deadlines often arrive earlier than expected–some as early as the fall of your senior year of high school or the first semester of college. Create a spreadsheet to track application deadlines, eligibility criteria, essay requirements, and submission status. Starting early gives you more time to craft strong applications and request recommendation letters.

Customize every scholarship application

Avoid submitting the same generic application to every scholarship. Tailor your essays and supporting materials to reflect the specific mission of each award. For example, if you’re applying for a women-in-engineering scholarship, highlight technical projects or academic achievements that demonstrate your commitment to the field. 

Get involved in professional organizations

Joining a STEM-focused organization–like SWE, ASCE, or AIA–can unlock access to exclusive scholarships, internship opportunities, and industry mentors. Many groups also offer student chapters on college campuses, which provide leadership roles and networking opportunities that look great on a resume. 

Use mentorship and networking to your advantage

Many professional organizations offer formal mentoring programs. Take advantage of these by actively seeking advice on navigating school, internships, and career decisions. Attend conferences, webinars, and chapter events to meet industry professionals and peers who can support your goals.

Look for ongoing support and renewal options

Some scholarships are renewable for multiple years. If awarded, stay in contact with the scholarship provider, meet academic requirements, and submit any follow-up documentation on time. This ongoing financial support can significantly reduce tuition costs over the long term.

Your next step in STEM starts with PPI

Scholarships and support networks are just the beginning. Once you’ve laid the foundation with your STEM education, the next step is earning your professional license–and that’s where PPI comes in. 

For over 50 years, PPI has been the industry leader in engineering and architecture exam prep, helping students and professionals pass the FE, PE, ARE, and NCIDQ exams with confidence. Whether you’re pursuing a career in civil engineering, electrical, mechanical, or architecture, PPI offers:

• Comprehensive review courses and exam prep
• Practice problems and study guides
• Digital learning tools to keep you on track

Preparation is key to taking your career to the next level. Explore trusted resources to take the next step in your STEM career.