Financial Aid Spotlight: GSA Research Grant

college studentsThe Geological Society of America (GSA) runs a grant program to enable students in higher education to conduct research relevant to the fields of geology or earth science. This grant can be worth up to $4,000, and it can be used by students in need of financial aid for their education and research so they can further their scientific career.

Who can apply?

In order to be eligible for the GSA research grant, you must be currently working towards your Master’s Degree or Ph.D, and your program must be focused on geology or earth science. Your college must be located in North or Central America, and you must be a GSA member. Joining GSA only costs about $30 a year (even less for individuals in certain parts of the world), and you need a valid email address. You can only receive the GSA grant one time at each level of your education.

What is the purpose of the GSA grant?

This grant is aimed at helping earth science and geology students conduct meaningful research in their field. Students interested in being awarded the grant must submit at least one progress report detailing their research efforts.

What are the odds of receiving the award?

The GSA reports that over 50 percent of individuals who submitted an application for the research grant in 2010 received some level of funding. If you are from a minority group, you are also eligible to receive a $500 grant from the Diversity in Geosciences Division of the organization. Two of these grants are awarded each year, and your application for this award is automatically entered with your GSA research grand proposal.

How can the money be spent?

GSA research grant recipients can use their award to fund and further their research. For example, students can purchase or rent equipment, use the money towards their travel expenses, or put the grant towards any other area of research. The funds can be spent on nearly anything research-related except tuition. The award can be up to $4,000 dollars, but the amount is based on your estimated need. In 2010, more than $600,000 was awarded to over 275 students, and the average award amount was just over $2,200.

How do I apply?

Interested students can apply for the GSA research grant through the GSA website. The deadline for submissions falls in February, and recipients are notified by the end of April.

More information on the GSA grant can be found on their website. If you qualify, consider applying for this grant to help fund your research. Your chances of being selected are relatively high, and it could help to take your research to the next level.

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