Scholarships for Computer Science Students

Last updated: March 07, 2022

In an open letter sent to congress in July of 2017, the Computer Science Education Coalition (CSEC) addressed the rapid growth of the computer science industry and ways the government can support educational opportunities to fill the demand for professionals. As it turns out, the data looks like an opportune time for college students to consider a career path in computer science. To date, there are over 500,000 open computer positions in every possible sector from tech to manufacturing, banking, agriculture and healthcare, however, only 50,000 students actually graduated with a computer science last year.

The industry’s growing demands and need for qualified individuals have prompted key players in the tech industry such as Google, Microsoft and IBM to offer a variety of computer science scholarships that help aspiring and current students reach their educational goals.

Not only does computer science provide students with extremely sought after knowledge, it also leads to the highest-paying, fastest-growing jobs in the U.S. economy. Explore our guide to learn more about careers in computer science and use our interactive scholarship tool to sort through scholarships based on award amount and financial need.

Computer science professionals offer irreplaceable skills that help transform our daily lives. Using current tools and constantly scanning the horizon for new game-changing technology opportunities, they create and simulate paths that move society forward.

“Technology doesn’t work on its own. It’s just a tool. You’re the ones who harness its power. It’s up to you to know your environment and to use these new tools at your disposal in the smartest and most effective ways possible.”
Eric Schmidt, Google Executive Chairman

With society increasingly reliant on technology, students pursuing degrees in computer science have many opportunities ahead of them starting with a variety of scholarship options.

Careers in Computer Science

 

Computer Programmers: Write the code that allows all computer applications to run. They do so by communicating with computers in programming languages.

 
 

Web Developers: Also referred to as "web designers" or "webmasters," they design, code and maintain all aspects of a website.

 
 

Software Developers: Also known as "computer programmers," software developers design, install and test the maintenance of software systems. They specialize in either applications or systems software.

 
 

Systems Managers: Oversee a company’s IT operations.

 
 

Hardware Engineers: They put in the research, design and work developing and testing computer systems and components. Their work influences the direction of computer technology development.

 
 

Software Engineers: Build and design software operating systems, business applications, games and network control systems. They tend to specialize in a few areas of development.

 
 

IT Architects: Designs IT solutions and services for organizations. They generally possess a strong background in both business and IT to provide the foundation for a strong information management and computer networks.

 
 

Database Administrators: Oversee and organization’s information while protecting databases by backing them up and creating protection against hackers. They optimize and expand existing databases.

 
 

Network Administrators: Also known as "systems administrators," they're responsible for keeping an organization’s computer network up to date and running smoothly. They work to install firewalls, evaluate software and hardware, monitor traffic and test the network for weaknesses.

 
 

Systems Analysts: They evaluate an organization’s computer systems and processes to help clients operate their business in a more efficient manner.

 
 

Security Analysts: They protect a network from cyber attacks and security breaches while investigating any compromised data that exists.

 
 

Computer Information Researchers: They invent and design new technology and meaningful applications for computer hardware and software programs.

 
 

How to Pay for College

1

Scholarships

There are hundreds of scholarships for computer science students, which are awarded by local organizations, private companies, societies and more.

 
2

Grants

Grants don’t need to be paid back and are based on your financial circumstances. They are usually funded by the federal government, your state or college.

 
3

Fellowships

While scholarships usually fund tuition, fellowships typically cover graduate study, research projects and abroad experiences without needing to be paid back.

 
4

Student Loans

You can borrow money from the government or a bank, but it needs to be paid back with interest. The federal government offers many loan options—fill out the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for financial aid. If you need help, use our interactive guide to learn how to answer every question.

 
5

Federal Work-Study Program

Provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to pay education expenses.

 
 

If you’re just beginning the process of finding suitable scholarships, make sure you’re prepared for the application process by starting a folder with the assets below.

Scholarship Application Preparation

Not all scholarships are based off of your GPA, but most need to verify your high school education to qualify. Try to get certified copies of your transcript early, so you have plenty of time to meet the deadline.
Although there are scholarship opportunities that aren’t merit-based, it’s valuable to take the SAT or ACT standardized tests in case it’s a scholarship qualification.
Your scholarship essay is what will bring attention to your application out of the pool of applicants. That’s why it’s important to craft a stand out piece that attests to your experience, adheres to the scholarship guidelines and most importantly, highlights your true personality.
Letters of recommendation are a true judgement of your character—something that can’t be revealed through your test scores or transcript. Reach out to former teachers, counselors or bosses, so that they can speak to your qualifications. You may also want to provide them with a resume that outlines your achievements and goals as well.
 

Computer Science Scholarships

Instructions: Click through the dropdowns below to sort by award amount and if you qualify for need-based aid.