Apply for the USRA Distinguished Undergraduate Awards 2026. Undergraduate STEM students pursuing careers in space science, aerospace engineering, and related fields can receive scholarships of up to $5,000.
The Universities Space Research Association (USRA) is accepting applications for its Distinguished Undergraduate Awards, a competitive scholarship program designed to support undergraduate students pursuing careers in science and engineering with an emphasis on space research, aerospace engineering, and space science education.
The program recognizes talented students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to advancing the future of space exploration and STEM innovation.
Scholarship Overview
USRA offers up to five undergraduate scholarship awards each year.
Successful applicants may receive:
- Scholarships of up to $5,000
- One-year financial support
- Direct payment to the recipient
- Recognition from a leading space research organization
The scholarships honor individuals who have made significant contributions to science and the U.S. space program while encouraging the next generation of researchers and engineers.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be enrolled full-time at an accredited four-year college or university in the United States when the award is received.
- Major in science, engineering, life sciences, or science education with applications related to space science or aerospace engineering.
- Be within two years of completing a bachelor’s degree in an eligible field.
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher.
- Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Previous USRA scholarship recipients are not eligible to apply.
USRA also allows students attending selected member universities outside the United States to apply, provided they meet the program’s international eligibility requirements.
Scholarship Fields
The program supports students studying areas including:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Space Science
- Astronomy
- Physics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Life Sciences
- Space Science Education
- Other STEM disciplines with space-related applications
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete online application that includes:
- Completed application form
- Personal statement (maximum 600 words) describing career goals, accomplishments, and interest in space research or aerospace
- Leadership and community engagement statement (maximum 325 words)
- Two letters of recommendation (including at least one from a college professor, mentor, or university official)
- Official college transcript showing at least two years of coursework and cumulative GPA
- Resume or CV (maximum two pages)
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Demonstrated interest in space research, aerospace engineering, or space science education
- Quality of the personal essay
- Academic achievements
- Letters of recommendation
- Leadership and community impact
- Outreach and extracurricular activities
USRA emphasizes both academic excellence and meaningful contributions beyond the classroom.
Important Deadlines
Applicants should note the following deadlines:
- Student application deadline: August 12 (11:59 PM CDT)
- Letters of recommendation deadline: August 19
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to give referees sufficient time to upload recommendation letters.
Why Apply?
The USRA Distinguished Undergraduate Awards provide more than financial assistance. They recognize promising STEM students preparing for careers in space science and engineering while helping recipients build credentials that strengthen future applications for graduate school, research positions, internships, and aerospace careers.
For students interested in NASA-related research, satellite technology, aerospace innovation, or scientific discovery, this scholarship offers valuable support and recognition.
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