Who We Are
Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) is a national, all volunteer, women’s organization that advances science and technology in the United States by providing awards to academically outstanding US citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering, and medical research.
The Metro Washington Chapter (MWC) makes annual awards to graduate and undergraduate students attending five area universities. Members of ARCS are all volunteers who donate their time, efforts, and financial support. 100% of every dollar raised for scholar awards goes directly to our scholars. ARCS provides a way for individuals, foundations, corporations, and civic organizations to combine their resources and efforts to support American scholars, helping ensure a better future for all. ARCS Scholar Awards for scientific education are among the largest of any private membership organization in the United States.
Metro Washington Chapter Highlights
ARCS-MWC Partner Universities
ARCS Mission
ARCS (Achievement Rewards for College Scientists) Foundation advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding students who are US citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering, math, technology, and medical research.
About ARCS National
Fascination with the idea of a US space program turned to alarm when a Soviet-launched satellite orbited Earth in 1957. In Los Angeles, a small but ambitious and energetic group of women asked what they could do to elevate the nation's scientific leadership and reestablish technological superiority.
On September 5, 1958, ARCS Foundation, Inc. was incorporated as a non-profit organization in California; thirteen days later, its formation was announced at the CalTech campus in Pasadena along with its purpose: to "…raise money for scholarships and fellowships (now known as Scholar Awards)…for the support of both undergraduate and graduate students." Today, there are fifteen chapters throughout the United States.
ARCS Foundation believes that supporting STEM education is essential to US economic growth, technological competitiveness, and continued global leadership. To address the country's need for new scientists and engineers, ARCS funds the prestigious ARCS Scholar Awards to help the country's brightest graduate and undergraduate students create new knowledge and innovative technologies. ARCS Chapters have provided over $143 million to over 12,000 students selected by their universities for their outstanding potential to make a difference.