Microsoft Scholarships: Types, Eligibility, and How to Apply

There are financial constraints that prevent talented students from pursuing their educational dreams. To get past this hurdle and attract talent, Microsoft offers scholarships to students in the STEM field. The tech giant from Redmond, Washington has always been at the forefront of giving back to the community by supporting education.

This article explores the various Microsoft scholarship offerings. We also provide information about their benefits and eligibility. 

About Microsoft Scholarship

Microsoft has been a global leader in technology for the past forty years. In recent decades the company has taken several steps to nurture academic excellence. 

The company, headquartered in Redmond, USA offers several scholarships to students pursuing computer science and related fields. The objective is to cultivate future leaders of technology who will drive innovation and growth. 

These are the various Microsoft Scholarship Programs:

• Microsoft Tuition Scholarship
• Microsoft Undergraduate Scholarship
• Microsoft Scholarship for IT Professionals
• HOLA at Microsoft Scholarship
• Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship
• Women at Microsoft Scholarship
• Microsoft Disabilities Scholarships 

Let’s explore each scholarship in more depth.

Also Read: 10 Best Scholarships for Master for Indian Students in 2024

Microsoft Scholarships for Students in Computer Science and STEM Fields

These are the various scholarships from Microsoft. Below we provide details of each scholarship, its eligibility requirements, benefits, and application processes.

Microsoft Tuition Scholarship

The Microsoft Tuition Scholarship is a merit-based award. It is aimed at students who have displayed academic excellence in their school life and are pursuing a degree in computer science or a related STEM field. 

The Microsoft Tuition Scholarship provides financial assistance to students and covers partial or full tuition fees for an academic year. It rewards scholarly brilliance and encourages passion and dedication among young computer scientists. 

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. 
• They have to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• The student has to show satisfactory progress toward a degree in computer science or a related STEM field.

Microsoft Undergraduate Scholarship

The Microsoft Undergraduate Scholarship is for students from underrepresented groups who are pursuing careers in technology. These groups often face more barriers than usual when they seek entry into the tech industry.

This scholarship aims to level the playing field and offers financial support. But beyond that, the Microsoft Undergraduate Scholarship provides access to mentorship programs. These are of immense value since students learn from the very best minds in computing technology and also develop valuable industry connections.

Students also receive Azure credits for Microsoft’s cloud computing platform. The credits can be used for research in AI development, virtual machines, cloud platforms and tools, etc. 

This gives them valuable hands-on experience and helps them become experts.

Eligibility Requirements

• The student must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program in the USA. 
• Applicants have to belong to underrepresented groups in technology.
• They have to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

HOLA at Microsoft Scholarship

The HOLA at Microsoft Scholarship is for high school seniors of Hispanic and Latinx descent who plan to study computer science and engineering. The name comes from the acronym HOLA which stands for Hispanic and Latinx Organization of Leaders in Action. HOLA is an employee group within Microsoft that focuses on supporting the Hispanic and Latinx communities. 

The HOLA Scholarship awards 13 scholarships totaling $85,000 annually.

There are:

• 10 one-time scholarships of $2,500
• 3 renewable scholarships of $20,000 ($5,000 per year for 4 years)

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant has to be enrolled at a US-based high school.
• They have to be seniors of Hispanic and Latinx descent.
• The applicant can be a US citizen, permanent resident, or a DACA recipient.
• They must plan to enroll in a full-time undergraduate program at a US college or university with the following majors:
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Computer Information Systems
  • Business Administration
  • Finance 
• Like all other Microsoft scholarships, the recipients have to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship

Like HOLA scholarships, the Blacks at Microsoft Scholarship (BAM Scholarship) is another key initiative by the company. Fewer than 10% of STEM employees are African American. BAM scholarships encourage more black students to take up higher education in computer and tech related fields. 

BAM scholarship offers five awards of $5,000 each. These are renewable for up to three years or until the recipient earns their bachelor’s degree. This scholarship targets high school seniors of African descent who wish to pursue a career in computer science. 

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant has to be enrolled at a US-based high school.
• They have to be seniors of African descent. 
• The applicant must plan to attend a four-year college or university course.
• They must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Women at Microsoft Scholarship

Gender diversity in the workplace has assumed great significance. The Women at Microsoft Scholarship encourages more women to enter STEM fields by providing financial support. 

The scholarship is for students who plan to attend college in the United States and pursue a degree in computer science and technology. It offers seven one-time awards of $5,000 each that will be granted to deserving students.

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicants must be graduating high school seniors
• They must self-identify as a woman, including non-binary, gender fluid, and women of transgender experience
• Plan to enroll full-time in an undergraduate program at an accredited US college, or university and study:
  •  Tech
  •  Engineering
  •  Math
  •  Computer Science
• They have to maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• International students are eligible for the scholarship

Microsoft Disability Scholarship

An equal workspace that does not discriminate is the modern dream. To that end, Microsoft Disability Scholarships help make the playing field a little more level for those who are at a disadvantage. 

Recipients receive a $5,000 annual award, renewable for up to three years or until completing a bachelor’s degree. They have to maintain a 2.0 GPA and study in the USA. There are 10 awards each year. 

Microsoft Scholarship for IT Professionals

The Microsoft Scholarship for IT Professionals is for those who are already working in the IT field but want to learn further. This fully funded training program provides both technical training and business education. Since professionals in the field have to constantly hone their skills to keep up with emerging technology, the scholarship is extremely helpful. 

The scholarship is available to individuals pursuing careers in IT. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific training program.

By offering these scholarships, Microsoft demonstrates its commitment to the progress of the tech industry.

Also Read: Best Scholarships for Indian Students in USA in 2024

Application Process for Microsoft Scholarships

The application process is online and is available here. To apply for a Microsoft Scholarship, carefully complete the application form, and provide all necessary information. 

You have to submit multiple documents in support of your application. The form requires:

• Personal details (name, email, phone number)
• Academic information 
• Financial information 
• Multiple essays on different topics:
  • Passion for technology outside the classroom
  • Toughest technical problem solved
  • Demonstrating initiative and willingness to go above and beyond
  • Why you deserve the scholarship
• GitHub repository (if available) 
• Detailed CV    

The 2024 Microsoft scholarship cycle is closed and a new cycle will begin in January. 

Different scholarships have varying application deadlines and you must apply as soon as you make the decision to study abroad. 

The selection process for Microsoft Scholarship

The candidate must have a good academic record and a passion for technology, engineering, or computing and related fields. They have to be willing to take up a career in computer science and pursue it at the undergraduate level. 

Following a thorough review of the documents and essays, the Microsoft Scholarship Committee selects recipients who are notified through email. 

Grant details for Microsoft Scholarship

Here’s a table summarizing the various Microsoft scholarships along with their respective benefits:

The Microsoft Scholarship covers a range of needs from tuition assistance to mentorship and even fully funded training for IT professionals. 

However, despite such support, many students still require additional financial aid to meet the full cost of their education—especially when it comes to living expenses, travel, and other educational fees.

That’s where FundRight can help bridge the gap. FundRight offers access to competitive education loan options from more than 15 leading banks and NBFCs. Unlike traditional loan processes, lenders on FundRight compete to give you the most favorable rates, ensuring you maximize savings and get terms tailored to your needs.

Here’s what FundRight brings to the table:

• App-based, hassle-free service with no paperwork or bank visits.
• No-cosigner and no-collateral loans, depending on your eligibility.
• Expert advice to customize and negotiate your loan terms.
• Fast disbursement, often within just 10 days.

With FundRight, you can seamlessly cover any remaining education costs and focus on your studies with peace of mind.

Now, let’s find out some tips about Microsoft Scholarships.

Tips for prospective applicants

If you are considering applying for a Microsoft scholarship, understanding the application process is essential. There are very few scholarship slots and many applicants. Your application has to be absolutely perfect and we have some tips to guide you. 

Here are some strategies to increase your chances of success of landing a Microsoft scholarship: 

Start Early

You have to begin your scholarship search early and find the details about the different scholarships that are available. Start by making a list of the specific requirements and eligibility criteria. The scholarships have different application deadlines, starting from January. Make a note of the various application deadlines and prepare necessary documents and essays with time to spare.

Maintain Strong Academics

All of these scholarships require a GPA of at least 3.0 which equals a score of 75% and above. If you want to land a Microsoft scholarship, strong academic performance is crucial and you must do well in your high school. 

Engage in Extracurricular Activities

Applicants are judged not only based on academics but extracurricular activities. Participating in volunteer work, internships, or personal projects related to your field of interest can lend weight to your application. These activities show you are good at teamwork and make your resume stand out. 

Craft a Compelling Essay

As we have shared above, you have to submit multiple essays with your application. These essays are an opportunity to showcase your goals and narrate why you are a suitable candidate. Be authentic, clear, and specific about your aspirations and explain how the Microsoft scholarship will help you achieve your goals.

Secure Strong Recommendations

Ask your teachers for letters of recommendation. They have taught you and can offer detailed and positive insights into your abilities and strengths. Give your teachers ample time and scope to write letters of recommendation.

Leverage Microsoft’s Resources

Utilize Microsoft platforms, such as Azure, Microsoft 365, and other resources, to build projects and gain experience. It is easy to create a small project using various Azure tools and share it through GitHub. This will make your application stronger and give you a headstart. 

Also Read: Types of Scholarships to Study Abroad for International Students

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