Why Mechanical Engineering Scholarships are So Good

Engineering on the whole is in constant demand. Particular incentives go to minorities and women, both vastly under-represented in engineering at large.

Mechanical engineering continues to draw new blood. This broad field of study not only includes the very traditional specializations in mechanics, but cutting edge specializations in robotics, nanotechnology, MEMS systems, and computer automation. Here are some of the hottest trends for today’s mechanical engineering students.

Popular Scholarship Sources for Mechanical Engineering Students

Keep in mind that the field of mechanical engineering is hungry to diversify. White males continue to make up the largest population of professionals, but scholarships provide monetary incentive that attracts other students.

  • Government sources
  • Colleges and university sources
  • Private and professional sources

Mechanical Engineering Scholarships from Government Sources

Federal government is the liveliest arena for mining mechanical engineering scholarships. Two reasons: many federal agencies employ and support engineering fields, and the overall need to diversify.

Through NASA mechanical engineering students, both undergraduate and graduate, studying in this specialized field may qualify for scholarships. Each academic year a couple of dozen scholarships, ranging between $10,000 and $35,000 are awarded to top academic contenders. These awards come packaged with straight-out scholarship awards, plus paid internships, and for graduates—a super cash stipend.

Colleges and Universities for Mechanical Engineering Scholarships

If you’re forgetting about the scholarships from your own college or university you’re really leaving big money on the table. Besides the general merit and need-based awards you must explore the money opportunities available directly through the department or School of Engineering.

Private and Professional Sources

One of the most overlooked sources for scholarships is private and professional organizations. Professional associations and societies have been around for generations. Their main mission: support member professionals, advocate for the industry, and provide encouragement and incentive to students. Many such organizations offer academic scholarships as well as money for research and travel.

  • The Helen T. Carr Fellowship Program is sponsored through the American Society for Engineering Education and aimed specifically at African American engineering students.
  • The ASME Foundation supports the educational goals of mechanical engineering students at every level of education. The organization offers multiple annual scholarships, including Auxiliary Scholarships, First Clarke Scholarship, and various Graduate Teaching Fellowships for PhD students.
  • Asco-Numatics offers the annual Industrial Automation Engineering College Scholarships to undergrads and grads studying in this field. Awards are $5,000 and come with internship contingencies.
  • Kelly Engineering Resources sponsors the annual Future Engineers Scholarship Program. This award is one-$5,000 cash prize and is given to an outstanding undergraduate engineering student based on academic merit and a required essay.