The National Science Foundation (NSF) funds research opportunities for undergraduate students in any area of research sponsored by the NSF. Research areas include chemistry, physics, education and computer science. Interested students must submit a proposal and if accepted, will receive stipends toward the cost of living, housing and travel. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Students can search for available research projects at the NSF website, as well as download grant proposal guidelines.
For minority graduate students interested in careers in mental health, the American Psychological Association offers several grants, including the Dissertation Research Award. This $1,000 grant is awarded to 30 to 40 doctoral students annually, to assist them with research costs. Exceptional applicants may be awarded a larger grant of $5,000.
The American Political Science Association sponsors a Minority Fellows Program for prospective doctoral students with a demonstrated interest in political science research and teaching. The program, in existence for 40 years, awards up to 12 fellowships each year, valued at $4,000. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and submit GRE scores, transcripts and three recommendations from faculty members, along with a personal statement, at the time of application.