Scholarship FAQs
What is the SPE Fort Worth Section Scholarship?
To encourage the pursuit of careers in the Oil and Gas Industry, the Fort Worth Section of the Society of Petroleum Engineers offers scholarships for students that are either entering their freshman year of college or are an undergraduate student already in college.
How much are the scholarships?
Undergraduate scholarships of up to $3,000 per year are awarded annually and (once awarded) may be renewed through the recipient’s senior year in college (up to $12,000 in total).
How are scholarship funds distributed?
Up to $1,500 is distributed to each student in June and January of each year if they maintain their eligibility.
How does a student maintain their eligibility?
By continuing as a full-time student in a degree program leading to a career in the Oil and Gas industry and maintaining a 3.0 GPA each semester. Grade reports are submitted to the SPE Fort Worth Section Scholarship Officer each semester.
What happens if my grades drop below 3.0?
After one semester, the student will be placed on probation and encouraged to put a plan in place to improve their grades. If the grades improve (above 3.0) probation is lifted. If the grades do not improve the student will be interviewed and the SPE Fort Worth Section board of directors will review the situation before deciding on either renewing or withdrawing the scholarship.
Is it only for Fort Worth area residents?
Students must be a resident of Tarrant County or the surrounding area (Denton, Wise, Parker, Palo Pinto, Johnson, Hood, or Erath Counties). Candidates from Brown, Callahan, Coke, Coleman, Comanche, Coryell, Eastland, Hamilton, Haskell, Jones, Lampasas, McCulloch, Mills, Nolan, Runnels, San Saba, Shackelford, Stephens, Stonewall, Taylor, and Throckmorton Counties will be considered on a case-by-case basis. For college students going to school out of these areas, their home of legal residence will be used to determine eligibility.
Are there any restrictions on the scholarship?
Yes, scholarships are contingent on the student:
- Completing an application and applying before the deadline.
- Enrolling in and maintaining a full-time status in a curriculum leading to a degree in petroleum engineering or related program that will lead to a career in the Oil and Gas Industry.
- Must be United States citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Do I have to be in petroleum engineering or a school that has a petroleum engineering program?
No, any technical program that can lead to a career in the oil and gas industry is acceptable. We have students who are pursuing degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, ocean engineering, and more. We want to encourage students to pursue careers in the Oil and Gas Industry and become a part of the solutions that we need, which are much broader than just petroleum engineering.
How do I apply?
Download and complete the forms found on the scholarship page and either email them or send them via USPS to the address found on the form.
Is there a time restriction?
Yes, applications are accepted from January 1st to April 15th each year.
When are scholarships awarded?
Scholarships are awarded in late May each year.
Do I have to re-apply each year?
No, not re-apply, but there is a renewal form which asserts that you are still a full-time student in a degree program leading to a career in the Oil and Gas industry and maintaining a 3.0 GPA each semester.