Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Washington received a $2.0 million Project Grant award dated January 15, 2026, from the National Science Foundation's Division of Undergraduate Education under the STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076). The award funds "Promoting Early Retention in STEM: Achieving Change in Communities for Success in STEM Phase 3," which provides scholarships and comprehensive support services to 33 high-achieving, low-income undergraduate students pursuing bachelor's degrees in mathematics, environmental science, biomedical science, computer science, information technology, and engineering disciplines (computer, electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering). Over the five-year grant period (through December 31, 2031), the project delivers an average of $15,000 per scholar in annual scholarship support alongside faculty mentoring, on-campus living learning communities, and a dedicated Success in STEM seminar.

The grant funds additional student support services including an early fall precalculus program and course-based undergraduate research experiences in engineering or environmental science. The project incorporates a rigorous evaluation component utilizing mixed-methods assessment through quarterly self-report surveys and institutional outcome data to measure STEM degree completion rates and identify effective retention strategies for low-income students. These deliverables directly address the national priority of expanding the STEM workforce and strengthening economic competitiveness by supporting academically talented students through enhanced academic preparation, peer cohort development, and mentored research engagement.