The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was authorized by the United States Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Barry M. Goldwater. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue careers in these fields. 

The awards are made on the basis of merit to two groups of students — those who will be college juniors and those who will be college seniors — who have outstanding potential for and intend to pursue careers in mathematics & statistics, the natural sciences, or engineering. Each scholarship covers eligible expenses for undergraduate tuition, fees, books, and room and board, up to a maximum of $7,500 annually. Scholarship monies not used during one academic year are not transferable to the succeeding academic year. Junior-level scholarship recipients are eligible for a maximum of two years of scholarship support, and senior-level scholarship recipients are eligible for a maximum of one year of scholarship support. Approximately 450 Goldwater Scholarships are awarded. 

Deadlines

Internal: The Goldwater application opens in early September and the campus selection process begins in October. Contact Professor Aaron Reinhard for more information.
External: Late January.

Here's the link to view this year's specific deadline dates.

Eligibility

  • Be a United States citizen, a permanent resident, or a United States national;
  • Be a full-time matriculated sophomore or junior pursuing a degree at an accredited institution of higher education during the current academic year;
  • Have a college grade-point average of at least a 3.00 on a 4.00 scale;
  • Must have demonstrated potential for a research career in a natural science, mathematics, or engineering and have outstanding academic performance.

Application

  • The application includes the following:
    • Institutional nomination form
    • Student questionnaire
    • Research essay
    • Three letters of recommendation
    • Official high school and college grade transcripts

Learn more about the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, visit the Office of National Fellowships & Scholarships or contact the faculty liaison.