The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program was established by the United States Congress in 1986 in honor of former United States Senator and 1964 presidential candidate Barry Goldwater. Its goal is to provide a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue careers in these fields.
The Scholarship--considered the premier undergraduate award of its type--is awarded to about 300 college sophomores and juniors nationwide every year. The scholarship is awarded based on merit and research experience.