Purpose: The goal of the scholarship program is to aid in building an awareness of the value and rewards associated with careers in science and to assist students in acquiring skills and credentials needed for success in these areas. The scholarship is designed to encourage African-American, Hispanic, and Native American students to pursue undergraduate college degrees in the chemical sciences.

Funding: The amount of each individual award depends upon the availability of funding, the number of scholarships awarded, and evidence of financial need. Scholarship recipients receive up to a maximum of $5,000 per year. Scholarship awards are renewable.

Eligibility: To be considered for a scholarship through the ACS Scholars Program, candidates must:

• Be African-American, Hispanic/Latino, or American Indian 
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent U.S. resident
• Be a full-time student at a high school or accredited college, university, or community college
• Demonstrate high academic achievement in chemistry or science (Grade Point Average 3.0, "B" or better)
• Demonstrate financial need according to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form (FAFSA) and the Student Aid Report (SAR) form
• Be a graduating high school senior or college freshman, sophomore or junior intending to or already majoring in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a chemically-related science OR intending to or already pursuing a degree in chemical technology (acceptable majors include: Agricultural Chemistry, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Ceramic Science/ Chemistry/Technology, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Technology, Environmental Science/ Engineering (must me chemistry-based), Forensic Science/Chemistry, Food Science (not nutrition), Industrial Chemistry, Materials Science or Petroleum Engineering, Nanotechnology or Nano Science, Paper and Pulp Technology, Toxicology)
• Be planning a career in the chemical sciences (acceptable career goals include: Chemist, biochemist, Chemical Engineer, Chemical Technician, Forensic Chemist/ Investigator, MD/PhD (research physician), Patent Lawyer, Professor/Teacher of Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Chemical Engineering, Science Journalist)

Selection Criteria: The Selection Committee reviews all applications to determine the best overall applicants. The highest-rated students are selected as scholarship recipients. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic record, career objective, financial need, leadership ability, participation in school activities, and community service.

Application/Nomination Process: You must submit the following to be considered:

• Application Form
• Official transcript of grades: First year college students must provide a high school transcript in addition to the college transcript. Transfer students must submit copies of transcripts from all previous institutions attended (transcripts from current institutions that include transferred credits/courses is acceptable).
• Two letters of recommendation: At least one recommendation must be from a faculty member in your field of study. The second letter of recommendation should be from someone who knows you as a student, such as an employee or volunteer and can provide insight into your personal character, potential, motivation and ability to successfully complete a rigorous scientific course of study
• Copy of Student Aid Report (SAR): This form is provided to you after you submit your FAFSA. Information on the form is kept confidential.

For more detailed information see the ACS website's application guidelines.