Technology continues to reshape the world, but education in this field remains expensive. Many aspiring developers, engineers, and designers face financial barriers to entry.
That’s why discovering scholarships tailored to technology can be a game-changer. This article introduces ten underrated scholarships that can support your journey into the tech industry.
Why Tech Scholarships Are Worth Exploring?
Tech education is increasingly essential in today’s workforce. The cost of pursuing it, however, is rising every year.
Scholarships can significantly lower or even eliminate the financial burden. They also offer mentorship, internships, and career opportunities beyond tuition support.
10 Technology Scholarships You Didn’t Know About
Some of the best scholarships in tech are also the least known. Here are ten valuable opportunities to consider that often fly under the radar.
Adobe Research Women-in-Technology Scholarship
This scholarship empowers women in STEM to thrive in technical fields. It supports students majoring in computer science, data science, and artificial intelligence.
Adobe awards financial assistance, access to mentors, and potential internship placements. To qualify, you must be enrolled as an undergraduate or master’s student.
Generation Google Scholarship
Google offers this scholarship to promote diversity in tech. It is open to students from underrepresented backgrounds in computer science.
Recipients receive $10,000 and networking opportunities within Google. The scholarship aims to remove barriers and support future innovators.
Website: Generation Google Scholarship
Palantir Women in Technology Scholarship
Palantir supports women with a passion for technology and problem-solving. The scholarship awards $7,000 and connects recipients to Palantir’s mentorship network.
It targets students in North America pursuing technical degrees. Applicants must submit transcripts and demonstrate a strong interest in computing.
Science Ambassador Scholarship
This unique full-tuition scholarship is funded by Cards Against Humanity. It is open to women in STEM who can explain a scientific topic in a short video.
The application involves creating a three-minute educational video. Winners receive tuition coverage and access to a supportive science community.
Website: Science Ambassador Scholarship
Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship
Amazon supports high school seniors with a $40,000 scholarship and a paid internship.
It focuses on students from underserved or underrepresented communities. Applicants must plan to study computer science or a related field. This program opens the door to future roles at Amazon.
Website: Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship
SMART Scholarship by the Department of Defense
SMART is a government-funded scholarship that covers full tuition and provides a stipend. It is ideal for students pursuing technical degrees like engineering, cybersecurity, and physics.
Recipients must agree to work with the Department of Defense after graduation. This is a competitive program with strong job security benefits.
Website: SMART Scholarship by the Department of Defense
Adobe Design Circle Scholarship
This program supports students pursuing careers in design and digital innovation. Each recipient gets up to $25,000 per year and access to Adobe mentors.
The scholarship is global and inclusive of UI/UX, product design, and similar paths. Adobe looks for creativity, leadership, and passion for design.
Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship
BAM is a program supporting Black students aiming for careers in tech. It awards up to $20,000 over four years to eligible high school seniors.
Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement, and an interest in technology. Microsoft also provides networking opportunities.
Website: Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) Scholarship
Apple Pathways Internship and Scholarship Program
Apple’s Pathways program provides scholarships alongside internship placements. It targets first-generation college students and those from underrepresented communities.
Participants gain real-world experience working with Apple teams. The program encourages long-term careers in tech through direct mentorship.
Website: Apple Pathways Internship and Scholarship Program
NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Award
The National Center for Women & Information Technology offers this award to high school students. It recognizes young women for computing-related achievements.
Awardees receive prizes, access to networking groups, and potential internships. The program aims to build a strong pipeline for women in computing.
Website: NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Award
Who Can Apply for These Scholarships?
Most of these programs are open to students at various academic levels. You can apply as a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student.
Some are also available for bootcamp participants and non-traditional learners. Always check eligibility requirements carefully.
Areas of Study Covered by Tech Scholarships
These scholarships span a broad range of tech fields. Whether you're into coding, AI, or creative digital work, there are options.
Some target computer science, while others include cybersecurity, data analysis, and product design. Choose those that match your academic interests and career plans.
Tips to Make Your Scholarship Application Stand Out
Scholarship applications are your chance to stand out from thousands of other hopefuls. A strong application reflects not just your achievements, but also your vision and personality.
- Focus beyond grades: Highlight your leadership, innovation, and impact on your community.
- Craft compelling essays: Clearly express your passion for technology and how it shapes your goals.
- Showcase your portfolio: Include completed projects, coding examples, or digital design samples.
- Use video submissions wisely: Let your creativity and communication skills reflect your capabilities.
- Secure strong recommendations: Ask mentors or teachers who can speak to your potential.
- Customize each application: Tailor your responses based on the scholarship’s mission and values.
- Double-check eligibility and deadlines: Avoid disqualification by meeting all requirements.
- Practice mock interviews if required: Prepare clear, confident answers about your aspirations.
- Keep records organized: Store resumes, transcripts, and letters in one accessible location.
- Stay persistent: Rejections happen—what matters is continuing to apply and refine your materials.
Where to Find More Opportunities?
If you're serious about landing a scholarship, expand your search regularly. Many reliable platforms list updated tech scholarships.
The Path to Tech Shouldn’t Be Blocked by Cost
You don’t need to let tuition stop you from building your career in tech. With the right scholarship, your education can be both affordable and rewarding.
Take time to research, prepare strong applications, and stay persistent. Share these programs with friends or students who may benefit.