How to Finance a STEM Undergrad Degree: Recommendations from an Illinois Tech Expert

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A worthwhile college education is the key to open paths into STEM fields, but navigating what financial aid and college scholarships are available (or unavailable) to prospective students can be overwhelming. 

Here are some key questions to ask for anyone who is interested in pursuing an undergrad degree in STEM, answered by Illinois Tech financial aid expert Leticia Moreno: 

What financial aid is available to any student, including STEM majors?

Every student should complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal and state grants, which are a large part of financing any college education. 

What about college scholarships without government funding?

Outside college scholarships can be a great way to add to the affordability of a college education. It is very important for high school students to start searching early, as soon as their junior year. Colleges and universities also offer scholarships to incoming students.

What are outside college scholarships?

There is a great deal of national interest in students pursuing STEM degrees, and many private or nonprofit scholarships are offered to enterprising students. Local scholarships for college-bound high school students can be overlooked, so talk with a high school counselor to find out about all opportunities that could be available to you.

Are there scholarships for minority or nontraditional students?

There is a gender and racial gap in STEM fields, and scholarships for underrepresented groups are offered by national and local support organizations for students who pursue a degree in STEM. Institutions of higher learning often have offices dedicated to helping minority and nontraditional students navigate these unique opportunities.

Where do I start?

Reach out to the financial aid office at that college or university that you apply to. Experts there know what unique financial aid is available for their students, such as the Camras Scholarship at Illinois Tech.

Want to learn more about how to navigate the financial aid process? Illinois Tech’s Office of Financial Aid offers tools and resources for students online on topics such as the FAFSA, student loan management, and much more.