Scholarships for students from diverse backgrounds studying computer science

I'm planning to study computer science in the US as a student from a diverse background. Are there specific scholarships available for this field, and what are the main criteria to qualify?

Finding scholarships as an international student can be a bit challenging, but they are available, and some are even specifically designated for students in the realm of computer science.

1. Google has the Generation Google Scholarship, which extends to students from diverse backgrounds studying computer science. If you're a student from a background that is traditionally underrepresented in the field of computer science (e.g., women, ethnic minorities), you might want to consider this option.

2. There is also the Palantir Future Scholarship, another need-based scholarship for underrepresented students interested in STEM fields.

3. The Microsoft Tuition Scholarship, awarded annually for the academic year, covers tuition at the recipient's college or university for undergraduate students in Computer Science and related STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) disciplines.

Criteria for these scholarships often include academic performance, usually demonstrated by GPA, and sometimes personal essays or interviews. Extracurricular involvement, particularly in related fields (like computer science clubs or competitions) can also bolster your applications.

Lastly, don't forget about college-specific scholarships. Many universities offer their own scholarships for international students, which you may be qualified for. Some of these scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, while others might be dependent upon financial need. These scholarships are usually automatically considered upon admission, but it would be advisable to check with each specific institution on their process.

While these are specifically for computer science, you should also consider scholarships that aren't discipline-specific. There are plenty that are available to all international students, regardless of major. It might take a bit of extra searching, but every little bit helps when financing an education. Good luck as you search for scholarships!