12 Best Scholarships for Computer Science: Get Ahead in Tech!

Are financial constraints standing in the way of your tech dreams? Well, not anymore! Scholarships for Computer Science can open doors to exciting career opportunities in fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development. Whether you’re a high school senior planning to begin your tech journey or a graduate pursuing advanced research, there’s a Computer Science scholarship aligned with your goals. Many of these aids don’t just cover your tuition but also offer additional benefits like mentorship programs and internship opportunities. Keep reading to discover the best scholarships for Computer Science.

How to Apply for Computer Science Scholarships?

A strategic and well-organized approach is key to securing the best scholarships for Computer Science. While the process might get a little overwhelming, breaking it down into manageable steps can increase your chances of success. Below, we’ve laid down a comprehensive approach to navigating the Computer Science scholarship application process to get into the best computer science colleges and universities.

1. Research Well: Start your research well in advance, at least a year before your intended start date. This gives you ample time to understand requirements and prepare compelling applications without rushing. Also, leverage this time to improve your academic profile and extracurricular activities.
2. Don’t Limit Your Search: Explore opportunities through professional organizations, local tech companies, community foundations, and specific university departments. Consider both merit-based and need-based options.
3. List Down the Applicable Scholarships: Include key details like deadlines, requirements, award amounts, and application materials. Prioritise scholarships based on your eligibility and the chances of success.
4. Get Your Documentation in Order: Gather all essential materials, including transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and financial documents. Make sure to get these reviewed by teachers, counsellors, or mentors.
5. Submit Multiple Applications: At last, apply for numerous scholarships to increase your chances of getting a Computer Science scholarship. Craft each application to the specific scholarship’s requirements and values.  

12 Best Scholarships for Computer Science

There’s a growing demand for skilled tech professionals across industries, with Computer Science being one of the key fields. For students seeking to pursue a degree in this sector, the scholarships for Computer Science offer both financial support and other perks like mentorship and industry connections. We will now explore some of the best scholarships for Computer Science.

Computer Science Scholarships in the US

The US is home to some of the world’s top universities for computer science, but the cost of education can be a challenge for many students. Fortunately, numerous computer science scholarships in the US provide financial aid to deserving students based on merit, need, or specific criteria like diversity and innovation in technology.

1. Betty Stevens Frecknall Scholarship

Funded By: Foundation for IT Education (FITE)
Award Amount: $2,000
Deadline: May 2025 

Offered by FITE, this scholarship for Computer Science is given to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to the IT profession. To get this scholarship, students must be pursuing a full-time program in an IT field. You will also have to provide a complete application form, a personal essay, and a transcript to apply for this Computer Science master's degree scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements:  

• A declared Computer Science/CIS/MIS/IT major
• An overall or major GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
• Have completed at least one full semester of college
• Enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student at an accredited institution
• A US citizen or US permanent resident

2. AFCEA STEM Majors Scholarships

Funded By: AFCEA
Award Amount: $2,500
Deadline: 1 May 2025

Funded by the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association International (AFCEA), this is the best scholarship for Computer Science students. The association offers multiple scholarships, including the STEM Major Scholarship ($2,500), Undergraduate Diversity Scholarship ($3,000), Cyber Security Scholarship ($5,000), and Student Member Scholarship ($2,500). Students who exhibit both academic excellence and financial need have a high chance of getting these Computer Science degree scholarships. Also, it encourages applications from military veterans, ROTC candidates, and students interested in national security careers. This scholarship for Computer Science covers tuition and course-related expenses like books, supplies, and equipment.      

Eligibility Requirements:

•  Undergraduate students must be at least second-year college students enrolled as sophomores or juniors full-time in a four-year college
• An overall GPA of 3.0 or higher 
• A US citizen or permanent resident

3. IEEE Presidents’ Scholarship

Funded By: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Award Amount: $10,000
Deadline: 11 April 2025

Next on our list of the best scholarships for Computer Science is the IEEE Presidents’ Scholarship awarded to high school students. To get this award, one must demonstrate outstanding skills in engineering, computing, or related technical fields. Winners of this Computer Science scholarship are selected annually based on their projects presented at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. The scholarship offers a total of $10,000 which is distributed over four years, along with a complimentary IEEE Student membership. Additionally, you get a second-place award of $600 and a third-place award of $400.  

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a finalist at the Regeneron ISEF event
• Be a US citizen or permanent resident

4. AFB Paul and Ellen Ruckes Scholarship

Funded By: American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
Award Amount: $2,000
Deadline: 14 February 2025

One of the best scholarships for Computer Science, it supports visually impaired students pursuing degrees in Computer Science or Engineering. Both undergraduate and graduate students can achieve this scholarship, given they demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for technology. In addition, one must provide proof of their visual impairment, academic transcripts, and a personal statement highlighting their goals and achievements.   

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an undergraduate or graduate student
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0
• Must attend a 4-year college or university

Computer Science Scholarships in the UK

The UK is a leading destination for computer science education, offering world-class universities and cutting-edge research opportunities. However, tuition and living costs can be a concern for many students. Thankfully, various computer science scholarships in the UK provide financial support to talented individuals.

5. Donald Davies Computer Science Scholarship

Funded By: Royal Holloway, University of London
Award Amount: £1,000
Deadline: 9 April 2025 

One of the best Computer Science scholarships for international students, it was introduced in honor of Donald Davies, a computer scientist. This scholarship is offered to students who are pursuing Computer Science degrees at Royal Holloway. Donald Davies Computer Science Scholarship, one of the best scholarships for Computer Science students, covers a significant portion of tuition fees. To get this scholarship, one must showcase excellent academic records and potential contributions to the field. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Achieve an overall First class mark in your end-of-year exams, for years one, two, and three
• Be a UK citizen or international student

6. UCL Computer Science Excellence Scholarships

Funded By: University of California
Award Amount: £30,000
Deadline: 28 February 2025

UCL offers a range of Computer Science scholarships for international students who are enrolled in undergraduate Computer Science courses. These include the PGIM Scholarship Program, DeepMind Scholarship, and Aspire Award Undergraduate Scholarship. Students demonstrating exceptional academic backgrounds and strong potential in the computing field get these Computer Science scholarships. These scholarships mostly cover tuition fees.   

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be a UK or international student
• Proof of financial need

7. University of Birmingham Scholarships

Funded By: University of Birmingham
Award Amount: £1,500 - £3,000
Deadline: Varies

Next, we explore University of Birmingham scholarships for students enrolled in Computer Science programs. The university offers three scholarships for Computer Science, including The Computer Science UK Excellence Scholarship (£3,000) for UK students. The other two are The Computer Science International Achievement Scholarship (£1,500) and The Computer Science International Excellence Scholarship (£3,000) for international students. The funds offer partial to full funding, depending on the type of scholarship. One must demonstrate an exceptional academic record to get these scholarships for Computer Science. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Obtain an A*AA at A level (including A level Mathematics) or international equivalent in university-entrance qualifications
• IB: 7,6,6 from Higher Levels
• HKDSE: 5*,5,5

8. University of York Department of Computer Science Postgraduate Scholarships

Funded By: University of York
Award Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

The University of York also offers a range of Computer Science Masters Scholarships. The scholarships cover a significant portion of tuition fees and are provided based on academic excellence, research potential, and financial need. A few of them cover partial tuition fees, while others are fully funded Computer Science scholarships for international students. A few of these scholarships for Computer science majors include the York Graduate Loyalty Discount (10% tuition fee discount), GREAT Scholarship (£10,000), York Global Impact Masters Scholarship (£4,000), and International Masters Regional Scholarship (£3,000 - £5,000 for the first year only).  

Eligibility Requirements:

• Have completed an undergraduate degree from the University of York
• Hold an offer for entry to a full or part-time Computer Science masters course
• Pay fees at the overseas fee rate

Additional Computer Science Scholarships 

Beyond well-known industry and university-funded awards, numerous additional computer science scholarships provide financial support to students at various academic levels. These scholarships come from foundations, nonprofit organisations, and private donors, often targeting specific groups such as women in tech, underrepresented minorities, or students with exceptional research potential. 

9. Ben Brock Memorial Scholarship

Funded By: EpochGeo LLC
Award Amount: $7,500
Deadline: 29 March 2025

Next on our list of the best scholarships for Computer Science is the Ben Brock Memorial Scholarship, named after the computer scientist Ben Brock. This scholarship is awarded to students who value creativity and innovation in technology and showcase academic excellence and leadership potential. It covers tuition and other educational expenses. One also needs to submit an essay detailing their career goals in Computer Science, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters.

Eligibility Requirements:

• High school seniors, undergraduates, or graduate students
• Pursuing Geography, Computer Science, or Software Engineering

10. SMART Scholarship

Funded By: Department of Defense
Award Amount: $30,000 - $46,000
Deadline: 5 December 2025

The Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service is also one of the best Computer Science scholarships. It offers full tuition coverage, an annual stipend ranging from $30,000 - $46,000, health insurance allowance, summer internships, and guaranteed post-graduation employment. Plus, you get to network with experts and industry leaders in the defense sector. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Pursuing a graduate degree at an accredited US university
• Possess a college transcript from a regionally accredited US college or university

11. Davidson Fellows Scholarship

Funded By: Davidson Institute
Award Amount: $25,000, $50,000, & $100,000
Deadline: 12 February 2025

One of the best scholarships for Computer Science, it offers funds to young innovators in Computer Science and other fields. Students are recognized for their groundbreaking projects in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and algorithmic innovation. The application process for this best Computer Science scholarship has two parts. First, you need to provide a brief description of the project/portfolio. Next, you must input details of your nominator and send them your forms. Students who exhibit professional-level expertise and stand up to expert scrutiny in the field have high chances of getting this scholarship for Computer Science. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Be 18 or younger

12. ISA Educational Foundation Scholarships

Funded By: International Society of Automation (ISA)
Award Amount: $5,000 - $10,000
Deadline:

Next on our list of the best scholarships for Computer Science is the ISA Educational Foundation Scholarships for students interested in industrial automation and control systems. It is offered to students who demonstrate leadership potential, career objectives, and financial need. ISA offers multiple scholarship categories, including awards designated for female students and minorities. What’s more? You get a complimentary ISA student membership, offering access to technical papers, industry standards, and professional development resources. You also need to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of career objectives, and an essay describing your interest in automation and control systems. 

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be an ISA student member
• GPA of 2.8 or higher

That was our list of the best scholarships for Computer Science! Securing a scholarship can immensely ease the financial burden of pursuing a degree in CS, allowing you to focus on career growth. Additionally, platforms like amber offer scholarships to help students manage their educational expenses, making quality education more accessible. Amber scholarships take you one step closer to achieving your dreams in the ever-evolving field of technology.