Virginia Undergraduate STEM Research Scholarship Program

Special requirement

Essay required

Local

Specific majors

Overview

The Virginia Space Grant Consortium (VSGC) Undergraduate STEM Research Scholarship Program provides students with up to $8,500 to pursue research in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM). To qualify, you must be a junior or senior at Hampton University, William and Mary, Virginia Tech, UVA, or ODU.

Who qualifies?

If you're a rising junior or senior enrolled full-time at a VSGC member institution––Virginia Tech, University of Virginia, Old Dominion University, The College of William & Mary, and Hampton University––you could qualify. You should have at least two years of a STEM undergraduate program completed, with at least a 3.0 GPA. You should also have a specific faculty-mentored research project that has NASA or aerospace relevance.

How do you apply?

To apply, you will need to submit an online application and required documents to VSGC. This application includes a research proposal and letters of recommendation. The application deadline is January 29.

Status

Open for applications

Deadline

🗓 January 26, 2025

Paid to

🏫 Your school

Website

vsgc.odu.edu

What you'll need

Essay

Capture your unique story and ambitions, while writing about the required subject matter.

FAQ

What is a letter of recommendation?

A letter of recommendation (letter of rec) is a letter written by someone in your life who can speak to your achievements, positive traits, and potential. It's basically a summary of why you're great and deserve the scholarship or funding you're applying for! Typically, students ask teachers, mentors, coaches, or employers (never family or friends). FYI: You have to ask someone to write a letter of rec for you.

Who should I ask for a letter of recommendation?

Letters of recommendation typically come from teachers, counselors, coaches, leaders in groups you're a part of—basically any person who knows you well and is NOT a family member.

What if my college GPA is too low for this program?

First, see if it's possible to increase your GPA by the time you need to apply to this program. Knowing that you'll get additional funding with a higher GPA is a great motivator!

If you've had personal struggles that impacted your GPA, you should tell your financial aid office about it. Sometimes, by sharing your story and asking for help, you can get additional support.