Computer science is a popular field that is always growing and changing. Although it is mostly represented by men, more women are gaining an interest in computer technology. There are plenty of great scholarship opportunities to help them achieve their dreams. These are some of the top options.

1. Horizons Foundation Scholarship

This scholarship is offered by the Horizons Foundation to women who are enrolled as full-time or part-time students at an accredited educational institution. To qualify, students must be at a junior level in college. Female computer science majors who are interested in national security or defense are given preference. A minimum GPA of 3.25 is required, and the scholarship is only available to women who can prove financial need. Scholarship awards vary but are generous. The application deadline is July 15.

2. Google Anita Borg Scholarship

The Anita Borg scholarship offers a generous award of $10,000 per winner. Anita Borg was dedicated to revolutionizing technology and was a major contributor in technology. To honor her memory, Google offers this scholarship to women who are interested in computer science. A strong academic background is required, and women with leadership qualities are the preferred candidates. Scholarship winners also attend a retreat at the Googleplex and must participate in community outreach efforts. Current college students and high school graduates who are enrolled in computer science programs are welcome to apply.

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3. Carnegie Mellon INI Full Fellowship

This fellowship opportunity is sponsored by Alta Associates in cooperation with the Executive Women’s Forum. It is a full scholarship for one student at the Carnegie Mellon Information Networking Institute. Winners receive dedicated mentoring from EWF professionals. The scholarship is awarded to a female student from an under-represented segment of the U.S. population to help increase representation in computer technology fields. Applicants must be full-time students with good leadership skills. They must have a 3.25 GPA before admission to Carnegie Mellon and must maintain the same as a minimum throughout the program.

4. CWIT Scholarship

The Center for Women in Technology scholarship is offered by the University of Maryland. Its purpose is to increase the number of women representing the computer science field. Students who are interested in studying at this institution may receive between $5,000 and $15,000 toward their tuition if they live in Maryland and between $10,000 and $22,000 if they are not state residents. Since the award amounts are administered annually, this is one of the best institution-based scholarships in the country for women in computer science. Applicants must have a strong academic background and letters of recommendation. The application deadline is January 15 for the following academic year.

5. Ann Arbor Women In Computing Scholarship

This Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation scholarship is available to female computer science majors who have at least two semesters of studies remaining before graduation. Two winners receive a $1,000 reward each year. This scholarship is open to women who are studying in Washtenaw County. A strong academic record, an essay, letters of recommendation and an application are required. This program was started in 2003 to help increase the influence of women in computer science and related technology fields.

It is important to start applying for any desired scholarships as soon as possible. They take time to process, and obtaining reference letters and transcripts may also take time. Women who are interested in computer science can greatly reduce their tuition costs with scholarships. The first step toward a career is finding a computer science degree program.