The Edison Scholars STEM grants program has opened its latest application cycle, offering $1.5 million in scholarships to high school seniors across Southern California Edison’s service area. The program awards up to $50,000 per student across four years and targets graduates pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.
Scholarship background and purpose
The Edison Scholars STEM grants program launched in 2006 through Edison International and Southern California Edison. The foundation, not utility customer rates, funds the awards. The program has distributed more than $20 million to more than 800 students since its launch. Company leaders say the grants support a long-term effort to build a diverse workforce ready for careers in clean energy, engineering and advanced technology.
Students selected for the awards often come from communities with limited college access. Past recipients include first-generation graduates and students from small public schools. Edison officials said the program looks for applicants with strong academic performance, financial need and clear interest in STEM fields.
Eligibility and application details
The program will select 30 students for the next cycle. Applicants must live in SCE’s service territory and be high school seniors planning to enroll full time at a four-year accredited college or university in fall 2026. A 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA is required. Dependents of Edison employees or retirees are not eligible.
Students must choose a STEM major from an approved list. Eligible areas include engineering, computer science, physical sciences, mathematics, natural resources and related fields. The application requires transcripts, a statement of financial need and written responses about academic goals. Finalists may be asked to submit video responses. The deadline is Jan. 22, 2026.
Applicants can review details on the Edison International website at https://www.edison.com.
Opportunities for local students
Students in El Monte, South El Monte, Baldwin Park, Rosemead and Irwindale remain competitive for the Edison Scholars STEM grants. Many local schools sit within SCE’s service area. The award can reduce student debt and expand access to schools with strong engineering and science programs.
Awardees may apply for paid summer internships with Southern California Edison after their first year of college. Internship roles often support work related to grid planning, renewable energy, engineering analysis, data systems and community outreach. Program staff say those positions can serve as a direct introduction to regional energy careers.
Community relevance in the San Gabriel Valley
Local counselors report rising interest in STEM fields as more students explore careers in technology and renewable energy. The Edison Scholars STEM grants program aligns with that shift. Families facing rising college costs see the scholarship as a major resource.
The program continues to influence regional education pipelines by supporting students who return to mentor younger peers. Edison officials say many past recipients maintain ties to their home communities.
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