Planning for college as a STEM student comes with plenty of exciting opportunities—and a few unique challenges!
Whether you’re eyeing a competitive engineering program or dreaming of working in biotech, applying to college with a STEM major takes some careful planning. Building a strong foundation in high school and finding the right college fit can make all the difference.
Let’s break down what you need to know to get started.
Understanding STEM Fields
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) covers a wide range of disciplines, from computer science and engineering to biology, chemistry, and applied mathematics—and more!
No matter what part of STEM excites you, whether it’s designing apps, studying environmental science, or innovating in the field of renewable energy, there’s a spot for you.
STEM careers are in high demand and often offer solid job security and competitive salaries, which can make them appealing. But it’s important to think beyond the paycheck. These fields usually require years of challenging coursework and ongoing learning, so having a genuine passion for the subject is crucial.
If you’re truly excited about solving problems, experimenting, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible (and, very likely, taking a lot of math classes), STEM could be the perfect fit!
So what does a future STEM student need to know about college planning? Let’s find out!
High School Course Planning
Success in STEM starts with a solid academic foundation in high school. Colleges want to see that you’ve excelled in math and science courses, so they’ll pay close attention to the rigor of your coursework.
For example, math through calculus is often expected for STEM applicants, even if it isn’t explicitly required by the college. If your school offers advanced math, plan your academic trajectory so that you can take these classes by your senior year.
If your school offers honors, AP, IB, or dual enrollment options in subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus, take advantage of them.
And even though you may not need four years of these core subjects to meet your school’s graduation requirements, you should pursue them each year. These courses demonstrate that you are prepared for college-level work and show your willingness to challenge yourself.
Beyond the classes you take and the grades you earn in them, standardized tests like the SAT or ACT (as well as AP/IB exams and dual enrollment credit) can also play a role in highlighting your strength in STEM subjects.
Extracurricular Activities for STEM Students
Academics are important, but they’re just one part of the equation. Extracurriculars are a great way to show your passion for STEM while also giving colleges an idea of who you are outside the classroom.
If your school offers clubs like robotics, computer science, or Science Olympiad, those are solid places to start. But don’t feel limited to these options—especially if those don’t feel like the right fit for you. Think creatively about activities that show your interest in STEM while also highlighting other things you care about. Admissions officers see a lot of robotics club members—so what can you do that’s a little different?
Internships, job shadowing, or volunteer work in STEM fields can also give you valuable hands-on experience while you’re in high school. If you’re interested in medicine, for example, volunteering at a hospital or shadowing a doctor can give you valuable insight into the field while showing your dedication. It’s a great way to explore if a field that sounds great in theory is actually something that interests you.
Finally, look for ways to make an impact through your interest in STEM. This might mean pursuing a leadership role, unique personal projects, or looking for ways to contribute to your community. Keep track of your progress so you can be as specific as possible when filling out your application. This will highlight the result of your efforts and passions, not just your participation.
The key with extracurricular planning is to find activities that you genuinely enjoy and reflect your unique interests—because when you love what you’re doing, it shows.
The College Search for STEM Students
Not all STEM programs are the same, so finding a college that fits your needs and goals is key.
When you begin building your college list, think about what’s most important to you in a STEM program—whether that’s hands-on research opportunities, small class sizes, supportive faculty, or active STEM-focused student organizations. Look for schools that offer opportunities that align with your learning style and long-term goals.
It’s also important to understand the demands of STEM coursework. STEM majors typically require a strong foundation in math and science. You may have to take rigorous courses in subjects like calculus, chemistry, and physics, regardless of your actual major. These classes will prepare you for upper-level coursework in STEM fields, but they can also be intense and require serious commitment. Many students are drawn to the idea of a STEM career but feel overwhelmed when they see the academic requirements. This is why learning about the course load and expectations of potential programs should be an important part of your college research.
It’s also worth noting that some STEM majors may take more than 4 years to complete at certain colleges. Universities with a strong STEM focus or robust co-op programs often report 6-year graduation rates instead of 4-year rates. That’s not a red flag! These majors are often highly technical and require a lot of coursework to prepare you for life after graduation.
Focus on finding a place where you can thrive both academically and personally—that’s what will set you up for success.
Special Opportunities in STEM
Some colleges offer specialized opportunities for STEM students, including honors colleges, STEM-specific scholarships, or research programs. These programs can come with an academic scholarship or access to funding for experiential learning opportunities like research, internships, or study abroad.
You may also find colleges that have accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s pathways (sometimes called a 4+1 or 3+2 program) or combined degree programs, which allow you to earn multiple degrees in a shorter time frame.
In some cases, students apply to these types of opportunities after they are enrolled in a college. However, there may be opportunities available to incoming students that require an additional application. Be sure to account for this when you are planning your application process!
Preparing a Strong Application as a STEM Student
STEM fields are incredibly popular right now, which often makes them more competitive.
When it comes to your application, standing out as a STEM student requires some strategy. It’s more than just a list of coursework and achievements.
Your essays are a good place to highlight your passion for STEM, but avoid common clichés. Writing about how you loved playing with Legos as a child is a story admissions officers have seen countless times. Instead, focus on specific experiences that shaped your interest, such as a research project, a personal challenge you overcame, or a meaningful internship.
Letters of recommendation from teachers in STEM subjects can also provide valuable insights into your academic abilities and work ethic. Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and interests in STEM.
Pro Tip: If you are a sophomore or junior, take time to build intentional relationships with your teachers in STEM-focused classes. The structure of these classes doesn’t always leave much room for personality or outside interests to shine. Look for ways to be an active participant and engage with your teacher so they get to know who you are beyond your grades in their class. This will give them more to write about in a recommendation letter, making it personal and impactful!
Wrapping Up
College planning for STEM students is all about finding the right balance between challenging academics, engaging extracurriculars, and thoughtful college research.
Focus on doing your best in your classes, exploring activities that genuinely interest you, and taking the time to find programs that align with your goals and learning style. A well-rounded approach will help you feel confident and prepared as you navigate the admissions process.
Not sure if STEM is right for you?
This is just the beginning of our series exploring college planning for specific interests! Stay tuned for future installments, where we’ll explore college planning for students in fields like business, the arts, and more. Each path has its own unique considerations, and we’re here to help you navigate them all!