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The Goldwater Scholarship provides funding to college sophomores and juniors who intend to pursue research careers in the natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering. It is the oldest and most prestigious national scholarship in STEM fields in the U.S. The scholarship seeks to identify college students who show exceptional promise of becoming the next generation of research leaders in STEM fields. It provides $7,500 per year for up to 2 years (if applying as a sophomore), which can used for tuition, fees, books, and/or room and board.
Scholarship Amount
$7,500/year for 1-2 yearsAnnual Number of Scholarships Awarded
- ~400 per year
Eligibility
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a sophomore OR junior at the time of application
- Have at least a 3.00 GPA
- Most competitive applicants have at least a 3.70 GPA
- Intend to pursue a research career in a natural science, mathematics, or engineering:
- Chemistry
- Computer and Information Sciences and Engineering
- Engineering
- Geosciences
- Life Sciences
- Materials Research
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physics and Astronomy
- Psychology
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Record of research experience in your field of future graduate study
- At least 1 year of research experience is recommended
- Potential for and commitment to a research career in the natural sciences, mathematics, or engineering
- Most competitive applicants plan to pursue a research Ph.D.
- Potential for a significant future contribution to research in your chosen field
- Strong letters of recommendation
Application Material
- Goldwater Application
- Research Essay
- CV/Resume
- Transcripts
- 3 letters of recommendation
- 1 letter from a faculty member who can discuss your potential for a career in STEM
- 1 letter from a faculty member in your field of study
- 1 letter from a faculty member who can discuss your research endeavors
- University Endorsement
University Endorsement Process
University endorsement is a competitive process and not guaranteed. Students seeking University of Utah endorsement must submit certain application components by the University’s deadline. The University of Utah may endorse up to 4 students per year for the Goldwater Scholarship. A fifth candidate can be nominated if the candidate is a transfer student.