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Starting fall semester of 2020, Augusta University’s (AU) College of Science and Mathematics will be offering scholarships to qualified students majoring in Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Mathematics, or Physics.  These scholarships are funded through the National Science Foundation (NSF) program Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) award 1930341.  

AU students who have completed introductory courses in their major (BIOL 1108, CHEM 1212, MATH 2012, or PHYS 2212) with an A or B, are in good academic standing (minimum GPA of 3.0) and meet financial eligibility requirements are eligible to receive scholarships for up to $8,000 per academic year.  Scholarships can be renewed for up to two years if eligibility is maintained. 

This scholarship program has a number of special features designed to help students succeed in their chosen major and move on to the STEM workforce or graduate school in their chosen discipline. 

These features include:

  • Popup workshops focusing on STEM, career paths and readiness
  • Peer mentoring
  • Individualized faculty mentoring starting in year two
  • Professional mentoring in year three
  • Placement in a learning community

Underrepresented minorities and female students are strongly encouraged to apply. 

This material is based on work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant Number 1930341.  Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.  

Contact Us

College of Science & Mathematics

Health Sciences Campus

Science & Mathematics Building

Dr. Angie Spencer, Program Director

706-667-4512

anspencer@augusta.edu

 

Requirements for current AU or transfer students

  • Must be US Citizens or legal residents. 
  • Must plan to graduate with a bachelor’s of science degree in Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Ecology, Mathematics, or Physics
  • Must be in good standing with the university and hold an overall grade point average of at least 3.0.  If you have only taken courses from AU this is the Regents GPA.  If you are a transfer student then it is the Regents and Transfer GPA.
  • Must complete the FAFSA and financial aid requirements to determine financial need and enroll for full-time study toward your degree (that means enrolling in 12 or more credit hours).
  • Must have completed the introductory courses in your major at AU with an A or B. If you have completed the introductory courses in your major at another school, then you must have completed one or more upper division courses in your major at AU with an A or B.

Application process (Due Date Mar. 16, 2022)

  • Complete POPUPS Scholarship Application 
  • Submit the names of two faculty references (at least one from a science or mathematics instructor familiar with your level of ability)
  • Faculty do not need to submit anything at this time.  They will be contacted by the POPUPS team regarding the recommendation process.  
  • Complete interview with the POPUPS Scholarship Selection Committee.

My favorite thing about the POPUPS scholarship is being able to have a peer mentor to give me great advice and guide me through the process.

Taryn Lykes

Cell & Molecular Biology Junior

My favorite parts of the POPUPS workshops are how interactive they are. They had arduino and the 3d printing which were very motivating.

Jakeline Jaurez

Biology Junior

One of the workshops that I went to was held by the CURS where they walked us through the benefits of doing the research and what's really available out there for us.

Amber Jordan

Mathematics Junior

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens after my application is received?

Once all parts of your application have been submitted, including your letters of recommendation, the financial aid office will verify your eligibility, and a committee will review your application. Students will receive a request for an interview to proceed to the next round. A final decision concerning your application will be sent out by the end of July or early August.

How much funding can I receive through the POPUPS scholarship program?

You can receive up to $8,000 per year. Scholarships can be renewed for up to three years (total scholarship award up to $24,000). Specific scholarship amounts will be determined by the federal financial aid you qualify for.

What can the money be applied to if I receive a POPUPS scholarship?

Scholarship funds can be applied to cover tuition, books, room and board, or other educational expenses.

Can I receive the scholarship for a summer semester?

No, the scholarships are only for the fall and spring semesters.

Can I receive other scholarships and financial aid if I receive a POPUPS scholarship?

Yes, however, other financial aid may reduce the amount of your POPUPS scholarship.

I’ve missed the application deadline. Can I still apply?

Yes, as long as the scholarship application remains available. Priority is given to those that apply by the deadline, but you are welcome to apply and will be considered if scholarships remain.

An Education Like No Other

The College of Science and Mathematics provides students with strong foundations in the sciences as well as preparation for careers, citizenship, and a life-long love of learning. We are committed to providing experiences promoting scientific inquiry and discovery and dedicated to creating opportunities for intellectual growth and community involvement.