Welcome to a comprehensive guide to the Generation Google Scholarship for North America. In this article, we will delve into the key details that every aspiring student should know about this scholarship opportunity. From uncovering the application process to understanding eligibility criteria, exploring the coveted award amount, and looking at the essay questions, we aim to provide an overview of what it takes to secure this scholarship. Additionally, we will take a glimpse into the list of the immediate previous winners and shed light on the scholarship’s acceptance rate, offering invaluable insights for those aspiring to embark on this educational journey. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a passionate learner, this scholarship has the potential to be a life-changing opportunity, and we’re here to guide you through it all.
Generation Google Scholarship
The Generation Google Scholarship, initiated by Google, is aimed at supporting students pursuing higher education in fields related to computer science, computer engineering, or closely related technical disciplines. This scholarship program is designed to nurture future technology leaders by emphasizing qualities such as commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, demonstrated leadership, and strong academic performance as key selection criteria.
Open to students who meet the minimum qualifications, the Generation Google Scholarship particularly encourages individuals from historically underrepresented groups in the tech industry, including Women, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latinx, American Indian, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, to apply. By prioritizing diversity, this scholarship seeks to create a more inclusive and varied tech landscape.
The administration of the program is entrusted to Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest organizer of scholarships and education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals. Eligibility for this scholarship is determined by the sponsor, Google, and applications are rigorously evaluated by Scholarship America’s dedicated team. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also aims to foster a more diverse and vibrant future in the world of technology.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate for the Generation Google Scholarship is not publicly available. However, it is estimated to be around 5–10%. This means that for every 100 students who apply, at least 5–10 or even more will be selected as recipients.
The scholarship is highly competitive, and the selection criteria are rigorous. Applicants must have a strong academic record, demonstrate leadership and a passion for computer science, and be committed to improving diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.
Awards
The Generation Google Scholarship awards provide financial support to students pursuing higher education in the fields of computer science, computer engineering, or closely related technical disciplines. The scholarship offers two distinct award amounts based on the recipient’s location: $5,000.00 CAD for students attending college in Canada or $10,000.00 USD for those studying in the United States. A total of up to 55 scholarships will be granted, and the award payments are disbursed in U.S. dollars (USD).
It’s important to note that these awards are one-time-only, meaning that past recipients of certain other Google scholarships, such as the Generation Google Scholarship for women in gaming, the Google Lime Scholarship, and several others listed, are not eligible to reapply. However, the Generation Google Scholarship funds can be used to cover various education-related expenses, providing valuable financial assistance to undergraduate students pursuing their academic goals. This scholarship program underscores Google’s commitment to supporting future leaders in technology and fostering diversity within the industry, particularly among underrepresented groups.
Payment of Scholarships
Scholarship payments for the Generation Google Scholarship program are facilitated through Scholarship America on behalf of Google. Recipients can expect to receive their scholarship payments in the month of August. This timely disbursement ensures that the financial support provided by Google reaches deserving students at a crucial time as they embark on their academic journey.
Selection of Recipients
The selection process for Generation Google Scholarship recipients is comprehensive and considers various factors to identify deserving candidates. Key criteria for selection include an applicant’s academic record, demonstrated leadership and active involvement in school and community activities, relevant work experience, a well-articulated statement outlining their educational and career goals, and any unique personal or family circumstances that may impact their pursuit of higher education. In addition, applicants are required to submit an online recommendation and provide thoughtful responses to two essay questions as part of their application. Financial need is also taken into account during the selection process.
Importantly, the selection of scholarship recipients is conducted by Scholarship America, an independent organization. Google’s officers or employees do not have a role in this selection, ensuring an impartial and fair evaluation. It’s worth noting that not all applicants will be chosen as recipients, and all applicants must accept the final decision made by Scholarship America, demonstrating the commitment to a transparent and objective selection process in awarding the Generation Google Scholarships.
Eligibility
Eligibility criteria for applying to the Generation Google Scholarship are as follows:
- Applicants must be currently enrolled as full-time students in a Bachelor’s program at an accredited university or college. Alternatively, high school seniors for the 2022–23 academic year are also eligible to apply.
- They must intend to enroll in or have been accepted as full-time students in a Bachelor’s program at an accredited university in the United States or Canada for the 2023–2024 academic year.
- Applicants should be pursuing studies in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related technical field.
- A strong academic record is required to meet the eligibility criteria.
- Demonstrating financial need is another important factor for eligibility.
- Applicants are expected to exemplify leadership qualities and showcase their passion for improving the representation of underrepresented groups in the fields of computer science and technology.
For those who may not meet these specific eligibility criteria, Google encourages them to explore alternative opportunities and programs available in their country or region based on their academic level by visiting the Google Careers for Students site. This demonstrates Google’s commitment to supporting students and fostering diversity in various educational pathways.
Application Process
The application process for the Generation Google Scholarship entails several key steps:
- Online Application: Applicants are required to complete an online application where they provide general background information, including their contact details and information about their current and intended universities.
- Family and Household Information: Applicants will need to furnish information regarding their family and household.
- Resume/CV: A crucial part of the application involves submitting a comprehensive resume or curriculum vitae (CV), highlighting their academic and extracurricular achievements, work experience, and any relevant qualifications.
- Letter of Recommendation: Applicants are required to submit one letter of recommendation as part of their application. This recommendation should come from a credible source who can vouch for the applicant’s qualifications and character.
- Academic Transcripts: Applicants must provide their academic transcripts from their current institution. In some cases, prior transcripts may also be necessary, if applicable.
- Short Answer Essay Questions: As part of the application, applicants need to respond to short answer essay questions.
Essay Questions
The Generation Google Scholarship application includes two short-answer essay questions. Each response to the three questions below should be 500 words, 2,000 characters, or less in length.
- Complex Problem Solving: In this question, applicants are prompted to share an experience where they encountered a complex problem lacking a clear solution. They are expected to provide a detailed account of the steps they took to navigate this challenge, including the consideration of resources and potential solutions. Importantly, applicants are encouraged to reflect on the valuable lessons learned from this experience, which could have occurred in various settings such as school, work, extracurricular activities, or home.
- Equity and Inclusion: The second essay question invites applicants to draw from their personal experiences and describe a barrier that obstructs equitable access to the field of technology. Applicants should delve into the root causes of this inequity and articulate the actions they have taken or plan to take to address this issue. Emphasis is placed on the actions and impact achieved, with applicants encouraged to think broadly about how their efforts can contribute to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry.
2022 Winners
In 2022, a group of outstanding students were awarded the Academic Scholarship Winners by Google. These individuals were recognized for their remarkable commitment to technology, exceptional academic achievements, and exemplary leadership qualities. They are now part of a thriving community of more than 2,800 Google scholarship recipients, poised to make significant contributions to the fields of computer science, gaming, and technology.
The Generation Google Scholarship was granted to students in the United States and Canada, and the list of awardees is extensive, including students from various universities.
Some of the recipients are:
- Wasiu Ogunlana, Northern Kentucky University
- Ainazik Kamaldinova from North American University
- Ashi Tyagi from Northeastern University
- Toochukwu Ifezie, Fisk University
- Temiloluwa Ogunyamoju, Caldwell University
- Van Le, Hollins University
- Weijia Yan, Carnegie Mellon University
- Arturo Macias Franco from the University of Nevada-Reno.
Terms and Conditions
The Generation Google Scholarship is administered by Scholarship America, and for comprehensive details regarding the scholarship and its terms and conditions, applicants are encouraged to visit Scholarship America’s website. This source provides comprehensive information about the scholarship program, including eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and any additional requirements.
If applicants have any specific questions or require further clarification, they are invited to reach out via email to generation-google@scholarshipamerica.org. This dedicated email address serves as a direct point of contact for any inquiries or concerns related to the Generation Google Scholarship, ensuring that applicants can receive the assistance and information they need to navigate the application process smoothly.