AWWA Scholarship Program 2026 Open
The AWWA Scholarship Program 2026–2027 is now accepting applications until December 20, 2025, offering a golden opportunity for students and water operators passionate about solving global water challenges. Managed by the American Water Works Association (AWWA) through its Water Equation initiative, this program funds emerging professionals in the water, wastewater, and environmental fields—helping them shape the future of sustainable water management.
About the AWWA Water Equation Scholarships
Since its inception, AWWA’s Water Equation Scholarships have supported thousands of students and operators in advancing their academic and professional journeys in water-related disciplines. The initiative is designed to strengthen the global water workforce by providing financial assistance to those just beginning their path in water science, engineering, or operations.
Scholarships are funded directly by AWWA, its corporate partners, and the Water Operator Continuing Education Fund. The program ensures that every eligible candidate, regardless of background, has a chance to contribute to improving water systems, sustainability, and public health.
Scholarship Categories and Benefits
The AWWA Scholarship portfolio includes a range of awards tailored to various academic and professional levels:
- Abel Wolman Fellowship – Up to $30,000 for doctoral students researching water supply and public health.
- Larson Aquatic Research Support (LARS) – $5,000 for master’s and $7,000 for doctoral students in water quality and technology.
- Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship – Around $3,000 for research in drinking water, environmental science, and public health.
- Corporate-sponsored awards – Offered by leading companies such as AECOM, Jacobs, Veolia, Hazen, HDR, and CDM Smith, supporting engineering and environmental science majors.
- Water Operator Continuing Education Fund – Helps water and wastewater operators pay for professional certification and technical training.
All funds are paid directly to educational institutions and can be used for tuition, laboratory expenses, books, or approved professional development activities.
Who Can Apply?
The AWWA Scholarship Program welcomes:
- Undergraduate, graduate, and PhD students pursuing degrees in water, civil, or environmental engineering; hydrology; chemistry; or related sciences.
- Certified water and wastewater operators seeking continuing education or licensing support.
- Applicants from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico (citizens or permanent residents).
AWWA membership is not required to apply, and applicants can submit multiple scholarship applications using a single AWWA account.
Application Timeline
Applications for the AWWA Water Equation Scholarships 2026–2027 are open now and will close on December 20, 2025.
- Recommendation letters must also be received by this date.
- Successful recipients will be notified by March 2026, with funds disbursed for the Fall 2026 academic term.
Interested applicants must log in or create an AWWA account to complete their submission.