Pursuing a degree in chemistry can be both exciting and challenging, but financial constraints can often become a significant obstacle for many students. Scholarships can help ease this burden and allow students to focus on their studies without the added stress of financial concerns. As educators, it’s important to guide your students toward opportunities that can support their academic journey. Here are the top 10 chemistry scholarships students should consider applying for:

1. American Chemical Society (ACS) Scholars Program

The ACS Scholars Program provides renewable scholarships to underrepresented minority students pursuing undergraduate degrees in chemistry or related fields. Recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.

2. The Barry Goldwater Scholarship

This prestigious scholarship supports students planning to pursue research careers in science, mathematics, or engineering. Chemistry students who show potential for research and leadership can receive up to $7,500 per academic year.

3. The Science, Mathematics And Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship

Offered by the Department of Defense, the SMART Scholarship is ideal for students studying chemistry or other STEM fields. It covers full tuition, offers a stipend, and provides job placement within a DoD facility upon graduation.

4. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP)

This fellowship supports outstanding graduate students in STEM disciplines, including chemistry. Fellows receive a three-year annual stipend of $34,000 and an education allowance of $12,000 to cover tuition and fees.

5. Joseph Breen Memorial Fellowship

Administered by the ACS, this fellowship supports young researchers in the field of green chemistry. The award helps cover travel expenses for attending green chemistry conferences, encouraging students to broaden their knowledge and network in this field.

6. Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program

This scholarship provides support to graduate-level students studying chemistry or marine science disciplines. It offers up to $42,000 in academic and living expenses per year and opportunities for mentorship with NOAA professionals.

7. ACS-Hach Land Grant Undergraduate Scholarship

For chemistry students who are interested in teaching, this scholarship provides up to $10,000 for undergraduates committed to becoming high school chemistry teachers. It also offers teaching resources and networking opportunities through the ACS-Hach program.

8. The Davidson Fellows Scholarship

This scholarship is aimed at students under 18 who have completed significant work in STEM fields, including chemistry. Awards range from $10,000 to $50,000, providing financial support for students demonstrating extraordinary achievements.

9. The American Institute of Chemists (AIC) Student Awards

Awarded to students excelling in chemistry or biochemistry, this award recognizes academic achievement and leadership potential. Recipients receive a certificate, and it’s an excellent addition to any student’s academic profile.

10. The NIH Undergraduate Scholarship Program (UGSP)

Targeted toward students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing a career in biomedical, behavioral, or social science research, the NIH UGSP offers up to $20,000 per year, with additional benefits such as research training and job placement at NIH post-graduation.

These scholarships provide chemistry students with valuable financial support, reducing the burden of tuition and enabling them to focus on their education and research. Educators can encourage students to explore these opportunities, helping them stay on the path to success in their chemistry careers. Platforms like Key2CHEM can further assist students in staying organized and up-to-date with scholarship application deadlines by integrating them into their academic calendar.