What We Do

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."

– Beth Wainwright, ARCS Foundation National President

Opening Doors to Scientific Achievement

ARCS Foundation embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values critical to scientific excellence and innovation. Learn more about our DEI initiative.

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 more than $131 million to more than 11,500 students selected by their universities for their outstanding potential to make a difference. Northern California member Chris Simpson Brent describes what makes ARCS unique:

Organization Highlights

We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a solid reputation. Gifts to ARCS Foundation are not subject to administrative fees, either by the organization or by the universities that distribute ARCS Scholar Award funds.

We work in close collaboration with 15 regional ARCS Foundation chapters that partner with leading universities, and we build industry partnerships to enhance advanced goals for America.

Award Highlights

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. (85% said it allowed them to spend more time on research; 81% said it was important in completing their degrees; 94% said it provided valuable moral support.)

ARCS Scholars continue on to positions of leadership and distinction in academia, industry, and government. 88% of alumni work in their sponsored fields; 74% continue to conduct research; 21% hold patents.