If you have aptitude and interest in computer science or a related field, do not let a lack of finances deter you from following your dream. A number of scholarships are available to you to make it easier to pursue your academic goals. Here are some of the best grants and scholarships available for those who seek a degree and career in technology.

Federal Grants

Almost all federal grants and scholarships are based on financial need. To apply, the first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Afterwards, the U.S. Department of Education lets you know what aid you are eligible for. Federal Pell Grants are awarded to undergraduate or graduate students working on degrees. The maximum award is $5,645 per year, and the amount you receive is based on your need, the cost of the university you attend and whether you are a full- or part-time student. A Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, or FSEOG, is an additional amount of between $100 and $4,000 a year for students with exceptional financial need. If your parent or guardian died as a result of military service in Iran or Afghanistan, you may be eligible for an Iran and Afghanistan Service Grant for an amount up to the maximum Federal Pell Grant.

Microsoft Scholarships

Microsoft offers four types of technical scholarships: general scholarships, women’s scholarships, minority scholarships and scholarships for those with disabilities. Candidates are selected based on their eligibility, the quality of their application, their interest in the software industry, leadership potential and financial need. To apply, you must be currently attending a university in North America and send in an application package including a resume, transcript, answers to essay questions, confirmation page from the online application for a summer internship and a letter of recommendation.

Google Lime Scholarship Program

To be eligible for a Google Lime Scholarship, you must be a student currently attending, or planning to attend, a university to earn a degree in computer science, computer engineering or a similar technical field. You must demonstrate strong academic performance, show leadership potential and be committed to computer science and technology. In addition, you must have a long-term visible or invisible disability. This program awards up to $10,000 for those studying in the US and $5,000 for those studying in Canada.

RateSupermarket Scholarship

To qualify for the RateSupermarket scholarships, you must be a resident of Canada currently enrolled at a Canadian college or university. There are no other eligibility requirements, and the scholarship recipients are chosen at random. Apply online at the RateSupermarket website; if you are awarded the scholarship, you must show proof of your student status.

AFCEA Scholarships

The Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association, or AFCEA, awards scholarships of $5,000 to undergraduates or $3,000 to graduate students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering or math. To be eligible, you must be currently enrolled in a historically black college or university in the US. Special consideration is given to those enlisted in the military or military veterans.

These are examples of some of the many scholarships and grants available for those interested in technical careers. If you have the talent for and are passionate about technology, you can find financial help in your pursuit of higher education.