Best Value Schools Launches New STEM Scholarship for Women

PHILADELPHIA, June 12, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- A new college scholarship sponsored by Best Value Schools aims to provide encouragement and inspiration for women in STEM-related degree programs. At least one $2,000 scholarship will be awarded, and females currently studying science, technology, engineering or math full time in a U.S.-based college are eligible to apply. The goal is to put more value in higher education, and Best Value Schools' STEM Scholarship for Women adds more muscle to the mission.

According to industry sources, there is a wide gender gap for women in math- and science-related careers. The American Association of University Women reports that female high school students achieve slightly higher grade point averages in math and science than males, but women and girls continue to face critical social and environmental barriers in STEM studies and careers that men do not. The BVS STEM Scholarship was launched to help female scientists, mathematicians, engineers and technicians to gain equal footing in the worldwide workforce.

A recent speech by President Barack Obama called national attention to the scarcity of women in STEM careers. "We've got half the population that is way underrepresented in those fields," said the President. "That means that we've got a whole bunch of talent that is not being encouraged." A spokesperson for Best Value Schools said the new STEM scholarship is intended to persuade more females to consider degree programs in math and science.

Applicants for the BVS scholarship are required to be female and enrolled full time in a STEM-related degree program at an accredited post-secondary institution. Additional eligibility requirements include a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or higher, ranking within the top 30% of her class, minimum standardized test scores, and proof of U.S. citizenship.

Additionally, scholarship applicants are required to submit one (1) 500-word essay on the reasons they have chosen STEM studies, as well as one (1) cover letter and resume, and two (2) letters of reference. The BVS scholarship committee will make its final selection based on academic achievement, participation in community and/or academic activities, and how well the applicant's essay expresses her aspirations and goals for a STEM-related career.

Scholarship applications for the 2014-2015 academic year must be submitted no later than July 15, 2014. The winner will be notified in early August 2014 with a letter and a check made payable to the college or university she attends.

For complete rules and information for the Best Value Schools STEM Scholarship for Women, or to download a scholarship application, please visit the BVS website at: http://www.bestvalueschools.com/stem-scholarship-for-women/

About: Best Value Schools is a comprehensive, online resource for college students who want to save money on tuition fees. Browse the site for free to find low-cost degree programs from top U.S. schools along with a wealth of instructive articles, features and links.

Media inquiries regarding Best Value Schools may be directed to Paul Church at 484-945-2742, via email, or on the web at Best Value Schools.

SOURCE Best Value Schools