Our Mission
ARCS (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists) Foundation advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding students who are US citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering, math, technology, and medical research.
"Scientific innovation has always been a prime driver of American productivity, and our mission to equip STEM scholars with the skills necessary to pursue basic research will lead to new innovations and helps increase the standing of the US in the global economy."
–Jill Bray, ARCS Foundation National President
Award Impact
ARCS Awards are unrestricted grants that ARCS Scholars can use in any way that advances their academic progress and/or research program. More than 9 out of 10 Scholar Alumni say their ARCS Award had a significant impact by helping them—
Igniting Innovation, Supporting Scientific Discovery
ARCS Foundation believes that support of STEM education is essential to U.S. economic growth, technological competitiveness, and continued global leadership. To address the country's need for new scientists and engineers, we fund prestigious ARCS Scholar Awards to help the country's brightest graduate and undergraduate students create new knowledge and innovative technologies.
- We have provided $148 million to more than 12,835 students selected by their universities for their outstanding potential to make a difference.
- Our 15 chapters partner with leading universities across the country, and we build industry partnerships to advance science in America.
- ARCS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a long history of supporting scientific discovery.
Northern California member Chris Simpson Brent describes what makes ARCS unique: