Scholarships for AY 2026/2027 are now open in Scholarship Universe

All Physics and Astronomy scholarships listed below are posted to www.scholarshipuniverse.arizona.edu. Please navigate to Scholarship Universe, set up your profile, answer any questions, and then apply to scholarships for which you are eligible. 

Physics: For questions, please contact David Smith (dlsmith1@arizona.edu).

Astronomy: For questions, please contact Tom Fleming (taf@arizona.edu). 

For a "How to Guide" to Scholarship Universe, see at the bottom of the page.

What is the Astronaut Scholarship?

The Astronaut Scholarship, supported by more than 80 astronauts from across the history of the US space program, was created to ensure that the US would maintain its leadership in science and technology by supporting promising students in science and engineering. Each Astronaut Scholar receives up to $15,000 plus access to an exclusive network of accomplished scientists, engineers, and innovators. Scholars also receive mentorship opportunities and an invitation to the annual Innovators Symposium, where they connect with leaders in their fields. Qualifying schools, including the UA, can nominate two students each year for this award.

Who is eligible for the Astronaut Scholarship? 

Astronaut Scholarship nominees must meet the following criteria (you do not have to be a student in the Honors College to be eligible to apply for this scholarship): 

1. U.S. citizen

2. Engineering, natural or applied science, or mathematics student who intends to pursue research or advance their field upon completion of their final degree(s). ( students who are actively pursuing a M.D. program should not be nominated, however students who are conducting research to support a related field not in pursuit of a M.D. to practice medicine can be nominated).

3. Sophomore or junior

4. Excellent grades

5. Participating in lab and research work in their field

Who is competitive for the Astronaut Scholarship? 

Significant research experience is needed, as is strong academic performance. Additionally, students will need to provide two strong letters of recommendation,

What is the application process for the Astronaut Scholarship?

Application materials are below. Student applications are distributed to a university-wide committee made up of STEM faculty and they will choose the two strongest candidates as the UA nominees. Typically, one of the two nominees will receive the Astronaut Scholarship. The UA has had Astronaut Scholars every year since 2011.

Application Deadline: 

Additional Information:

The Astronaut Scholarship information sheet contains all the details students need to successfully apply. I strongly encourage them to review it carefully and follow the instructions as outlined. Adhering to the guidelines will ensure their application is considered in the campus selection process.

If there are any questions, you can contact Dr. Karna Walter (karna@arizona.edu).

In addition to the regular financial aid and scholarships that often apply to study abroad, there is a range of specific scholarships designed to help make the study abroad experience affordable and accessible. Your eligibility for these scholarships is often determined by financial need, merit, identity, the location of your study abroad program, and/or the what you are studying.

Follow the link below to learn more about the scholarships offered directly by the U of A Study Abroad Office. You will automatically be considered for all of these scholarships when you submit your application to study abroad. 

Link: Explore Study Abroad Office Scholarships