Dreaming of a future in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics? The UNCF STEM Scholars Program 2026-2027 helps talented students access college funding, mentorship, and career support to build successful STEM careers. This prestigious opportunity supports high school seniors entering college and prepares them to become future innovators.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: United States
- Study Level: Undergraduate (Incoming Freshmen)
- Funding Type: Need-based scholarship + academic & career support
- Eligible Countries: United States citizens, nationals, and permanent residents
- Deadline: April 15, 2026 (5:00 PM EST)
About the Opportunity
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) STEM Scholars Program is designed to support talented students pursuing degrees and careers in STEM fields. This initiative identifies high-achieving high school seniors and provides financial assistance, academic support, mentoring, and career development opportunities throughout their undergraduate journey.
The program will award 75 scholarships to students entering accredited U.S. colleges in Fall 2026. Beyond financial aid, scholars receive mentorship, internships, academic support services, and professional training to prepare them for careers in fields such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, biology, and information sciences.
The scholarship operates as a last-dollar award, meaning funding helps cover remaining tuition costs after other financial aid is applied.
- NOTE: This is a last-dollar scholarship. This means it covers the “gap” between your total tuition and the other financial aid (like FAFSA or other grants) you have received. It ensures 100% of your tuition is covered up to the program limits.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
- Be a current high school senior entering college in Fall 2026
- Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- Complete rigorous math and science coursework (including pre-calculus)
- Demonstrate financial need based on FAFSA Student Aid Index
- Show commitment to pursuing a STEM major
- Enroll full-time at an accredited U.S. college or university
- Submit all essays and application materials
- Provide one letter of recommendation from a STEM teacher or mentor
- Submit a one-minute video essay
Are you an international student from Africa looking for fully funded opportunities? While the UNCF program is for US residents, you should explore the Global Fellows in Courage (GFiC) Program 2026, which offers grants and mentorship globally.
Eligible STEM majors include:
- Engineering disciplines
- Computer science & information sciences
- Biology & life sciences
- Chemistry & physics
- Mathematics
Benefits
Selected scholars receive:
- Tiered scholarship funding up to $25,000 total
- Up to $2,500/year (freshman & sophomore years)
- Up to $5,000/year (junior & senior years)
- Additional funding for approved fifth-year programs
- Renewable support for up to five undergraduate years
- $5,000 stipend for STEM-related project or internship
- Mentorship and academic coaching
- Access to online academic support platforms
- STEM summer orientation and support services
- Career coaching, internships, and professional training
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply:
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit required essays and a one-minute video essay.
- Arrange one recommendation letter from a STEM teacher or mentor.
- Provide academic records and leadership/community involvement details.
- Submit your FAFSA to verify financial need.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about STEM and want financial support, mentorship, and career opportunities, the UNCF STEM Scholars Program can help you achieve your academic goals.
For more details, visit the UNCF STEM Scholars Program.
