Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Program Overview
Description: The NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship supports undergraduate study in oceanic and atmospheric science by combining academic funding with a structured experiential component. Awards are intended to strengthen multidisciplinary training and prepare students for careers related to NOAA’s mission. The program emphasizes both classroom achievement and practical, hands-on experience at NOAA facilities. It targets undergraduate applicants who plan to pursue degrees in NOAA-related fields.
- Undergraduate-focused scholarship for oceanic and atmospheric science fields
- Combines academic support with experiential learning
- Designed to prepare students for NOAA mission-related careers
Award Components
Award Value: Academic assistance is provided for up to two years of full-time undergraduate study, with support of up to $9,500 per year. Awards also include travel funds to attend a mandatory NOAA scholarship orientation and the annual Science & Education Symposium, plus funding to present research at scientific conferences. A housing subsidy is available for scholars who do not reside at home during the summer internship period.
- Up to $9,500 per year for two years in academic support
- Travel funds for mandatory orientation, symposium, and conference presentations
- Housing subsidy for eligible summer interns
Internship and Experiential Learning
The program requires a 10-week, full-time summer internship at a NOAA facility, scheduled between the first and second years of the award. Internships are paid at $700 per week and provide practical experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management, and education activities. The placement gives scholars the opportunity to apply academic learning to real-world projects and to build professional networks within NOAA and related agencies.
- 10-week paid internship at a NOAA facility
- $700 per week stipend during the internship
- Practical experience across science, technology, policy, and education roles
Impact and Alumni Outcomes
Hollings alumni report that the scholarship and internship experience have significantly influenced their academic and career trajectories. Participants cite expanded professional networks and improved skills relevant to NOAA mission fields. The program consistently receives strong endorsements from past scholars: in surveys, 100% of respondents indicated they would recommend the opportunity to other students.
- Influences academic and career paths in NOAA-related fields
- Expands professional networks and practical skill sets
- High participant satisfaction and strong peer recommendations
Program Goals
The Hollings Scholarship advances NOAA’s objectives to strengthen undergraduate training in oceanic and atmospheric sciences, enhance public understanding of the ocean and atmosphere, and prepare students for public service and education careers. The program seeks to foster multidisciplinary training, improve environmental literacy, and recruit future professionals for federal, state, and local natural resource and science agencies. It also aims to support the development of educators who can improve scientific and environmental education nationwide.
- Increase undergraduate training in oceanic and atmospheric science and multidisciplinary opportunities
- Improve public understanding and stewardship of the ocean and atmosphere
- Recruit and prepare students for public service careers with NOAA and other agencies
- Prepare future teachers and improve scientific and environmental education