2026 USWiO Fall Scholarship
Application Website: https://uswio.awardspring.com/
We're excited to share a brand-new scholarship opportunity for women in the B.S. in Optical Sciences and Engineering program! The Foundation for US Women in Optics has established the "Foundation for US Women in Optics Scholarship.” This is a renewable scholarship that provides full 100% tuition for selected women who are U.S. citizens and working towards a B.S. in OSE degree. I highly encourage eligible students to apply for the inaugural 2026-2027 scholarshipp. The Foundation for US Women in Optics is excited to support our students, and we are grateful for their generosity and support! See below for more details, including a link to the application.
The Foundation for US Women in Optics will award full tuition (in-state or out-of-state) merit and need-based scholarships to selected undergraduate women pursuing a baccalaureate degree in Optical Sciences and Engineering at the University of Arizona, Wyant College of Optical Sciences. Awards may be renewable annually to support the completion of a student’s baccalaureate degree provided that the student has declared a major in optical sciences and engineering and continues to meet performance and financial need criteria. Full tuition scholarships shall be awarded to students selected by the Foundation Board based on financial need, academic performance and demonstrated potential to excel in the field of optics. Tuition for fall and spring semesters to support baccalaureate degrees will be disbursed to the student’s bursar account.
- Be a woman with U.S. citizenship
- Currently enrolled as a freshman, sophomore or junior in the B.S. in Optical Sciences and Engineering program at the University of Arizona’s Wyant College of Optical Sciences. (Current freshman who are expected to declare the major after Spring 2026 grades post are eligible to apply).
Access the application form at: uswio.awardspring.com (creation of an account required!)
- Provide a personal statement, resume, transcripts, and FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI). Guidelines for accessing this information are provided on FAQ section of the application portal and below:
- Transcripts: If your transcripts are from the University of Arizona, you can find instructions for accessing your transcripts at the UA Registrar’s website https://registrar.arizona.edu/records-enrollment/transcripts-verifications/transcripts/official-unofficial-transcripts. Please note that only “unofficial” transcripts are necessary for your application.
- FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI): Students can submit an estimated need statement from the FAFSA Student Aid Index (SAI) number. Directions for students on accessing your SIA can be found at https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/review-and-correct/fafsa-submission-summary. You may also upload a University of Arizona Financial Aid Offer Letter if available.
- Provide names and contact information for two references on application