The Water Equation Scholarships program supports students and operators at the beginning of their work in water. Scholarships are available through AWWA, corporate partners, and our Water Operator Continuing Education Fund. Please visit the website to log in to your AWWA account. If you do not yet have an account, you will need to sign up to create one to complete your application.
Scholarship Details
- Multiple scholarships funded by AWWA and corporate partners
- Individual awards generally range from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the scholarship
- Scholarships support undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and other qualifying educational programs
- Fields of study include water supply, drinking water treatment, wastewater management, environmental engineering, public health, and related disciplines
- Some scholarships also support students pursuing business, communications, public administration, and other careers serving the water sector
- Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient's educational institution
- AWWA membership is not required to apply
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a permanent resident of the United States, Canada, or Mexico
- Must meet the academic enrollment and degree requirements of the individual scholarship
- Must demonstrate academic achievement and qualifications relevant to the selected award
- Must meet any specific major, research focus, professional interest, or employment requirements established by the scholarship sponsor
- Undergraduate and graduate students may qualify for different scholarship opportunities
- Some scholarships prioritize applicants who demonstrate leadership, research accomplishments, financial disadvantage, or significant barriers to education
Application Process
- Visit the AWWA Scholarship Program website and review the available scholarships for the 2027–2028 academic year.
- Identify scholarships that match your academic level, field of study, research interests, and career goals.
- Create or log in to your AWWA account to access the online scholarship application portal.
- Complete the application and provide the academic and personal information requested for your selected scholarship.
- Arrange for letters of recommendation from faculty members, academic administrators, or professionals familiar with your academic qualifications.
- Prepare any required research proposal, observing the five-page maximum when applicable.
- Upload all required documentation and confirm that recommenders submit their letters before the deadline.
- Application deadline is November 6th
Scholarships can be used for tuition, books, lab fees, lab equipment, and conference registration. Scholarships cannot be used for a stipend, per diem, or rent. Some scholarships allow for the purchase of a computer or office furniture. However, those purchases are subject to income tax per the IRS.
