NFPA Fluid Power Scholarship
Offered by NFPA Education and Technology Foundation (National Fluid Power Association)
About This Scholarship
Fluid power, the hydraulic and pneumatic systems that move everything from excavator arms to factory robots, is a field with a steady shortage of trained technicians and engineers. The NFPA Education and Technology Foundation, the charitable arm of the National Fluid Power Association, offers multiple $2,500 Fluid Power Scholarships each year to bring more students into it.
You do not need a dedicated fluid power degree. Students in mechanical engineering, robotics, industrial technology, and similar programs qualify as long as fluid power is part of the curriculum. High school seniors heading to a community college, technical college, or university can apply along with students already enrolled, and the GPA minimum is a manageable 2.5.
The application centers on two short essays, one on your career goals and interest in fluid power and one on activities, leadership, and work experience. The foundation screens essays with AI and plagiarism detection tools, so write them yourself. Past recipients are allowed to reapply.
Eligibility
- High school seniors planning to enroll in a relevant program, or students enrolled at an accredited U.S. community college, technical college, or university
- Program must teach fluid power (examples include mechanical engineering, robotics, and industrial technology)
- Minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
- College applicants graduating in spring of the 2026-27 year are not eligible
- Master's and PhD students are not eligible
- Past recipients may reapply
How To Apply
- Start the 2027 application from the Fluid Power Scholarship section of the NFPA Grants and Scholarships page
- Write a 400 to 500-word essay on your career goals and interest in fluid power technology, plus a 200-word essay on activities, leadership, work experience, and awards
- Upload an admission or enrollment verification letter and an unofficial transcript
- Enter a recommender, who receives an invitation after you apply; the letter must arrive by February 8, 2027 at 4:00 p.m. CT
- Submit by February 1, 2027 at 11:59 p.m. CT; winners are announced after April 1, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to major in fluid power?
No. NFPA only requires a program where fluid power is taught, such as mechanical engineering, robotics, or industrial technology.
Can high school seniors apply?
Yes. High school seniors planning to enroll in a relevant program at a community college, technical college, or university are eligible.
Can I apply again if I won before?
Yes. NFPA says past recipients may reapply.