The primary role of the GSA research grants program is to provide partial support of master's and doctoral thesis research in the geological sciences for graduate students enrolled in universities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Central America. In 2025, approximately $900,000 was awarded to 354 graduate students (~52.2% of the 678 who applied), with an average grant of ~$2,688.
Goals
- Support graduate student research in the geosciences and ultimately enhance the geoscience workforce.
- Provide career development opportunity for students by gaining experience with grants writing, project development and research.
- Increase the diversity of the geosciences through opportunities for students of underrepresented communities to achieve success in research
Specialized Awards: The Committee on Research Grants selects recipients of special awards from applicants to the general research grants program. A student may not apply directly for a specialized grant; however, they may indicate on the application if he/she would like to be considered for an award. These are generally recognition awards only with no additional funding. However, some specialized awardees may be funded for an amount greater than US$2,500.
GSA invites the full participation of individuals traditionally underserved in the geosciences, which includes but is not limited to individuals who identify as racially and/or ethnically diverse, LGBTIQ+, persons with disabilities, and individuals who experience intersectionality with one or more of these identities.
Eligibility
- Eligibility is restricted to GSA members. How to Join GSA.
- Applicants must be currently enrolled in a North American or Central American university or college in an earth science graduate degree program (with a geologic component).
- Applicants do not need to be a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien.
- The research focus can be any subject matter within the geological sciences, such as paleontology, karst, geochemistry, stratigraphy, geoscience education, petroleum geology, and more. (See the full list of Subject Matter Categories.)
- Students may receive a total of two GSA graduate student grants in their entire academic career, regardless of what program currently enrolled in.
Deadlines
- 2026 applications open: 1 December
- 2026 application deadline:on the February due date, 11:59 p.m. MST.
- Results are reported to applicants via email in late May/early June.
- Grants will be paid out in July.
Scholarship Value: $2,688
Awards Available: 354
Award Deadline: Register to View