It’s no secret that women and girls are largely underrepresented in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). In fact, their male counterparts outnumber them by more than double. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, women earn 14 cents less for every dollar a man in STEM makes.

How can we close this STEM gap?

In 2018, Microsoft conducted a study on this very topic, citing various steps that need to be taken toward greater equality of the genders in the STEM field. Out of all the findings, this one actionable step sets the rest in motion: provide girls with role models in the STEM field. According to the study’s results, young women’s interest in STEM dramatically increased when they had role models that could show them what a successful female’s STEM career looks like. Additionally, the research concluded that when girls learn about real-world STEM careers and how they serve as a platform to resolve global issues, their outlook on the positive impact of STEM professionals can improve significantly.

In a recent article published on CNBC about scholarships for women in STEM, Sasha Ramani, the Associate Director of Corporate Strategy at MPOWER Financing states that, “having access to scholarships can help to alleviate some of the burden that women face today, and it is vital to them receiving an education that will get them the same seat at a table as their fellow male classmates. These can all help close the gaps for not only women – but those in underrepresented communities.”

What scholarships are available for women in STEM?

Scholarship Description: The ITWomen Charitable Foundation's college scholarship program seeks to increase the number of women earning information technology and engineering degrees. Female high school seniors graduating from schools in South Florida who plan to earn college degrees in Information Technology and Engineering in STEM are eligible to apply.

Scholarship Description: The SWE scholarships offer dozens of awards those who identify as a female and pursue an ABET-accredited bachelor or graduate program in preparation for careers in STEM. Completing one application is all it takes to be considered for all the scholarships SWE has to offer women in STEM.

Scholarship Description:The SAWF Scholarship Program provides aid to women who plan to enroll (or are enrolled) in a STEM-related field at a southern accredited two-year, four-year, or graduate program in preparation for a career in the automotive industry.

Get instantly matched to scholarships that meet your skillset, strengths and unique talents. Our search algorithms match you to scholarships that fit your profile. Access a complete list of college scholarships now by conducting a free college scholarship search at Scholarships.com.