STEM Scholarship Program FAQ

Unfortunately, the nature of the NSF funding requires students to be citizens of the United States, nationals of the United States (as defined in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act), aliens admitted as refugees under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, or aliens lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence.

*DACA students are ineligible for this scholarship opportunity. You must also qualify for need-based Federal financial aid, AND be a confirmed STEM major.

If you filled out a FAFSA for this term, you were given an award letter that explains your award status. View a Graphic of the Financial Aid Process.

Eligibility for Pell grants, CalGrant, Federal Work Study, and/or Direct Subsidized loans are considered need-based federal financial aid. View a Graphic of Types of Aid

We understand that the turnaround is fast. Here are some easy steps to help you with a request for support from a faculty member.

1. Start by asking a faculty member who knows you well.
2. Provide them with some back ground info (Letter of Rec Request Form). Let them know it’s not a formal letter, but a brief online form that will ask no more than 3-4 questions about your potential in STEM. (See Student Application info)
3. If they have any questions, direct them to the Faculty Recommendation page for more information.