Louis Stokes Education Scholarship (STOKES) Program

Financial need is part of how this award is decided, alongside merit.

Award

Tuition assistance (amount not stated), paid full-time summer work at DIA and guaranteed employment upon graduation

Deadline

2026-27 announcement not yet posted; announcements typically open in September or October

How to apply

High school guidance office reviews and submits the online application with transcript, SAT/ACT scores, DIA Form 418A, resume, essay on field of study and leadership, and FAFSA or tax return documentation.

What you'll need

• A separate scholarship application
• An essay
• A resume or activities list
• Your transcript
• Test scores (check whether they are optional)

Who can apply

U.S. citizens (all immediate family members must also be citizens; dual citizens ineligible) who are high school seniors at the time of application, minimum 2.75 GPA, with demonstrated leadership, studying fields such as foreign area studies, computer science, business, public administration, international relations, political science, STEM, engineering or intelligence analysis.

Good to know

DIA describes STOKES as a needs-based program. Service commitment of up to 18 months per academic year sponsored.

Details

Need consideredU.S. citizens onlySTEM