Scholarships for students enrolled in petroleum engineering programs often depend upon performance in the program. Some schools award scholarship funds to incoming students, but renewal of awards is contingent upon achievement of certain grades like an average of 3.0, for instance. Other schools withhold scholarship funds until after the first year, once a student has demonstrated academic ability and commitment to the program. Scholarship opportunities are provided by individual school programs and by industry-related organizations, such as the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Scholarships range from small amounts like $500 to full tuition.
Students enrolled in petroleum engineering programs are among the nation's most talented. Average SAT scores for newly enrolled students range from 1100 to 1400, and the average ACT score is 288. Students are expected to have a strong background in math, science and computer skills. Classes are very rigorous, and they require students to draw upon critical and creative thinking skills to design technologies that sustain the industry. To survive in class and keep up with your classmates, you often devote several hours of study daily to your courses.
Petroleum engineering school programs offer students different opportunities for professional development and networking. For instance, many schools host chapters of the Society for Petroleum Engineers, which assists students to develop contacts with alumni and other professionals in the industry. The SPE and similar organizations serve as a kind of support system for students to access the resources they need to succeed in school and in the professional world. Membership is not required, but it is encouraged.
Petroleum engineering programs encourage students to work or intern in the industry during summer breaks. In fact, some programs, such as the one at Texas A & M, require professional work. At this school, students are required to complete at least one summer internship before graduation. Other schools expect first year students to complete an internship or work in the industry after high school graduation, so that they matriculate with a basic knowledge of professional work in the industry. Internships in petroleum engineering normally include assisting a research department with administrative tasks. Some are paid, and some are unpaid. You may or may not receive credits for your internship, depending on the institution.