USA Barry Goldwater Scholarship 2026 (STEM Award)

Barry Goldwater Scholarship 2026 – Prestigious STEM Award for U.S. Undergraduates

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation offers one of the most prestigious undergraduate awards in the United States. Established by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry Goldwater’s 56 years of public service, this scholarship supports outstanding students committed to research careers in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering.

Every year, the Goldwater Scholarship identifies promising college sophomores and juniors, helping them pursue advanced research careers. Many past recipients have gone on to earn competitive awards such as the Rhodes Scholarship, Churchill Scholarship, NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, and the National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship.

Degree Level

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship 2026 is open to:

Note: The scholarship is not available for graduate or high school students.

Eligible Fields of Study

Students must be majoring in one of the following STEM areas:

• Natural Sciences

• Mathematics

• Engineering

Eligible majors include: biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, mathematics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, environmental science, and other related STEM disciplines.

Benefits of the Barry Goldwater Scholarship

Selected scholars receive:

• Up to $7,500 annually to cover tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.

• National recognition as one of the country’s top undergraduate researchers.

• Opportunities to join a prestigious community of scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.

• Strong support for graduate fellowship applications and research opportunities.

Eligible Nationalities

• Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and U.S. nationals only.

• Not available for international students.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Barry Goldwater Scholarship 2026, applicants must:

1. Be a college sophomore or junior at the time of application.

2. Hold U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or U.S. national status.

3. Intend to pursue a research career in natural sciences, mathematics, or engineering.

4. Be nominated by their Goldwater Campus Representative (self-nominations are not accepted).

5. Transfer students and veterans are encouraged to apply and should coordinate closely with their campus representative.

Application Timeline (2026 Competition)

• September 2, 2025 – Online application opens

• Early September 2025 – January 2026 – Internal campus nomination deadlines (varies by institution)

• January 30, 2026 (5:00 PM CT) – Final nomination deadline

• Late February 2026 – Nomination packets reviewed

• Mid-March 2026 – Board of Trustees vote on scholars

• March 27, 2026 – Announcement of 2026 Scholars and Honorable Mentions

How to Apply

1. Locate your Campus Representative using the official Campus Representative Locator.

2. Consult early with your representative to meet internal deadlines.

3. Prepare and submit the required materials:

4. Submit your nomination package before the January 30, 2026 deadline.

The Foundation also offers Open House Zoom sessions for both campus representatives and students. Student sessions are scheduled for:

• September 17, 2025

• November 5, 2025

Why the Goldwater Scholarship Matters

For over three decades, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship has supported thousands of students who are now leaders in STEM fields. Recipients are conducting groundbreaking research, developing advanced technologies, and mentoring the next generation of scientists and engineers.

This scholarship plays a critical role in strengthening America’s position as a global leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Final Thoughts

If you are a college sophomore or junior passionate about STEM research, the Barry Goldwater Scholarship 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity. By starting early, collaborating with your Campus Representative, and showcasing your research commitment, you can join the distinguished community of Goldwater Scholars driving the future of innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Barry Goldwater Scholarship?
It is a prestigious undergraduate scholarship in the U.S. that supports students pursuing research careers in science, mathematics, and engineering.

2. Who can apply for the 2026 Goldwater Scholarship?
Only U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or nationals who are college sophomores or juniors.

3. What are the eligible majors?
Majors in natural sciences, mathematics, and engineering, including biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, and related STEM fields.

4. How much funding does the scholarship provide?
Scholars receive up to $7,500 annually to cover tuition, fees, books, and living expenses.

5. Can international students apply?
No, the scholarship is only available to domestic students in the U.S.

6. How are students nominated?
Applicants must be nominated by their Campus Representative; self-nominations are not allowed.

7. When is the deadline for the 2026 Goldwater Scholarship?
The final deadline is January 30, 2026 (5:00 PM CT).

8. What materials are required for the application?
A research essay, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

9. What makes the Goldwater Scholarship so prestigious?
It has a strong history of recognizing top undergraduate researchers, with many recipients going on to win competitive national and international awards.

10. Where can I find more information?
Visit the official Goldwater Scholarship website and consult your Campus Representative for guidance.