FUTURE OF STEM SCHOLARS INITIATIVE
Future of STEM Scholars Initiative Opens Applications for 2027 STEM Scholars
- ~$10,000/yearScholarship Value
- 4 yearsFunding Duration
- ~900+ scholarshipsAwards to Date
- Founded 2020Program Start
- ~$40 million raisedTotal Funding
- ~40+ HBCUs supportedInstitutions Involved
At a glance
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Funding
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Rolling
Deadline
United States
Country
Future of STEM Scholars Initiative
Provider
The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) is a national program dedicated to fostering the next generation of chemical industry leaders by providing scholarships, mentorship, and career development opportunities to talented students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Founded in 2020 by the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), Chemours, and the HBCU Week Foundation, FOSSI aims to address the workforce needs of the chemical industry. Each FOSSI scholar receives a significant financial award of $10,000 per year for four years, totaling $40,000. The initiative has demonstrated substantial impact since its inception, having funded over 900 scholarships and raised more than $40 million. FOSSI supports students at over 40 HBCUs across the country, connecting them with sponsoring companies for leadership development, mentoring, and internship opportunities. The program boasts impressive outcomes, with scholars graduating at nearly three times the average four-year graduation rate at HBCUs. Approximately 80 percent of graduates are employed full-time in STEM-related fields or pursuing graduate education, and are twice as likely to secure full-time employment in their intended field compared to non-FOSSI graduates. FOSSI not only provides crucial financial assistance but also transforms students' aspirations into tangible goals through comprehensive support. The program's success stories include scholars launching careers within the chemical manufacturing industry at sponsoring organizations, underscoring its role in building a diverse and skilled workforce for the future. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Scholarship Funding — A scholarship of ~USD 10,000 per year for four years to cover tuition and other educational expenses.
- Leadership Development — Access to programs designed to enhance leadership skills.
- Mentorship — Guidance and support from industry professionals through dedicated mentoring.
- Internship Opportunities — Opportunities to gain practical experience through internships with sponsoring companies.
- Networking Experiences — Connections with professionals and companies within the chemical industry.
- Career Development — Support and resources to help launch successful careers in the chemical industry.
How to apply
To apply for the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative, eligible high school seniors must complete an online application process. The application typically requires submitting personal details, academic records, and demonstrating an interest in STEM fields and the chemical industry.
- Review Eligibility — Confirm you meet all eligibility requirements, including being a high school senior, intending to pursue a STEM degree at an HBCU, and having an interest in the chemical industry.
- Prepare Application Materials — Gather all necessary documents such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining your career aspirations.
- Access the Application Portal — Visit the official FOSSI website or designated application link to access the online application form.
- Complete and Submit Application — Fill out all sections of the application thoroughly and submit it before the specified deadline, typically in January for the following academic year.
- Await Notification — After submission, wait for notifications regarding the status of your application. Successful applicants will be informed of next steps for scholarship acceptance.
Eligibility
Academic StandingHigh school senior
Study LevelUndergraduate (Bachelors)
InstitutionMust attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)
Field of StudyPursuing an industry-relevant STEM degree
Career InterestInterest in a career in the chemical industry
Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic record and a clear interest in contributing to the chemical industry. The program is specifically targeted at supporting students for four years of undergraduate study at HBCUs.
Eligible countries
United States
Deadlines
2027-2028 Academic Year2027-01-08
Selection
Scholars are selected based on their application, which demonstrates their academic potential, interest in STEM fields relevant to the chemical industry, and commitment to pursuing an education at an HBCU. The selection process considers how applicants align with FOSSI's mission to develop future leaders and innovators in the chemical industry. Candidates are chosen for their ability to benefit from the scholarship's financial support, mentorship, and career development opportunities.
Verified sources
- Future of STEM Scholars Initiative Opens Applications for 2027 STEM Scholarsprnewswire.comofficial
About the provider
The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) was founded in 2020 by the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), The Chemours Company, and the HBCU Week Foundation. It is a national program dedicated to supporting STEM education at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the FOSSI scholarship?
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The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) is a national program providing scholarships, mentorship, internships, and career development opportunities to talented students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for careers in the chemical industry.
What does the FOSSI scholarship cover?
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The scholarship provides financial support of ~USD 10,000 per year for four years, along with access to leadership development, mentoring, internship opportunities, and networking experiences with sponsoring companies.
What is the value of the FOSSI scholarship?
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Each FOSSI scholar receives a scholarship of ~USD 10,000 per year for four years, making the total award value ~USD 40,000 over the undergraduate degree.
Who is eligible to apply for FOSSI?
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High school seniors who aim to pursue industry-relevant STEM degrees at HBCUs and have an interest in a career in the chemical industry are eligible to apply.
Which countries are eligible for this scholarship?
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The FOSSI scholarship is available for students studying at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States.
What study levels does FOSSI support?
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FOSSI supports students pursuing undergraduate (bachelors) degrees in STEM fields at HBCUs.
When is the application deadline for the FOSSI scholarship?
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Applications for the next class of scholars will be accepted through January 8, 2027.
How do I apply for the FOSSI scholarship?
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Eligible students can apply by accessing the application portal, typically linked from the official FOSSI website, and submitting the required materials by the deadline.
What documents are required for the application?
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Required documents generally include high school transcripts. Applicants may also need to provide letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and details of their HBCU application or admission (est.).
How are FOSSI scholars selected?
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Scholars are selected based on their eligibility, academic background, and demonstrated interest in STEM fields and the chemical industry, along with their commitment to attending an HBCU.
What is the duration of the scholarship and can it be renewed?
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The scholarship provides funding for four years, supporting students throughout their undergraduate journey. Renewal is typically contingent on maintaining eligibility criteria (est.).
Where can I confirm the latest details and figures?
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Applicants should always refer to the official Future of STEM Scholars Initiative website for the most current and accurate information regarding scholarship details, deadlines, and application processes.