Nationally Competitive Undergraduate Scholarships for Upper Division Students

 

In order to become a better candidate for prestigious scholarships and fellowships, it is important to establish yourself as a competitive applicant.  Prospective undergraduates excel in three main areas: research, recognition, and professional experience.  Independent research is a great opportunity to gain knowledge in your field of study and is prized by scholarship review committees.  Awards and recognition for research or other achievements are particularly advantageous.  Professional experience in the form of conference presentations or an internship is beneficial, too.  Above all, the best advice for the future scholar is to start now as you prepare your competitive candidacy for future awards.  Learn about some opportunities available to you now below, where you will see some of the prestigious scholarships available to undergraduates, as well as a few other helpful links relevant for the future scholar. 

Research Experiences for Undergraduates        
Sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs) presents students with a unique opportunity to gain experience in their field, including the possibility of being published.
 
Goldwater
A highly competitive award available to sophomores or juniors in the sciences, math, or engineering

National Security Education Program
Study abroad and learn another language in this academic-intensive experience

National Institutes of Health
The NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP) offers competitive scholarships to exceptional students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are committed to biomedical, behavioral, and social science research careers at the NIH.

 

Co-ops and Internships
Visit UA’s Center for Career Management website to learn more about getting an internship in your field!

Suggestions for Preparing Yourself for Scholarship Competition (MSword)
A helpful guide through your undergraduate experience that pinpoints the steps and actions a successful scholarship applicant should take