AES Educational Foundation

The Audio Engineering Society Educational Foundation is dedicated to encouraging the entry of talented students into the profession of audio engineering. Since its establishment in 1984, the Foundation has awarded grants for graduate studies to hundreds of exceptional applicants, many of whom have gone on to prominent and successful careers in the profession. We offer two types of scholarships: The AESEF Graduate Studies Grants and the Mary Lea Simpson Memorial Scholarship for a Recording Engineering Student.

Graduate Studies Grants

Application deadlines are May 15

Application forms may be accessed at aesef.slideroom.com

All applicants are required to have met these criteria:

• The successful completion of an undergraduate degree program (typically four years) at a recognized college or university
• A demonstrated commitment to audio engineering (or a related field) as a career choice
• Acceptance or a pending application for graduate studies leading to a masters or higher degree, or an internationally recognized equivalent
• Be a member in good standing of the Audio Engineering Society (any membership grade qualifies)

Awards are made annually, in August, and a recipient may apply for a one-time renewal after the successful completion of at least one year of graduate studies. Payment will be sent directly to the graduate school on behalf of the student's tuition account. Applications are accepted from students worldwide. Elaborate presentations or CDs (which cannot be photocopied) will not be accepted.

Applying for a named scholarship:  Applicants apply for a general graduate grant. The AES Educational Foundation Scholarship Committee selects the student who best meets the specification for each named scholarship.

Renewal grant applicants must complete the application form.

The request must be accompanied by three letters of recommendation, which attest to the applicant's satisfactory progress toward the degree.

After March 15, application forms may be accessed at aesef.slideroom.com

Completed applications will be accepted from March 15 through May 15. 

The Mary Lea Simpson Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship of tuition for final year of studies, is being offered to an undergraduate student entering senior year at a North American college or university Audio Engineering/Recording Arts Program.

All applicants are required to have met these criteria:

• Maintain a grade point average of 3.3 of 4 or better.
• Applicant must show a proficiency in recording, mixing and/or mastering.
• Be a member in good standing of the Audio Engineering Society.

Completed applications will be accepted from March 15 through May 15.

To all applicants

Three references are required; two from a major professor or academic advisor, and one from a non-educator – e.g., a distinguished professional in the field, etc.

Email may be used for informal communications but not for applications or letters of recommendation. Incomplete applications, late applications and applications for vocational training will not be considered or acknowledged.

Applications, recommendations and other materials must be typewritten or printed clearly.

After March 15, application forms may be accessed at aesef.slideroom.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

Click here to read more detailed information about how our scholarship program works. Make sure to read this before asking us any questions.

AES Educational Foundation Scholarships

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AES Educational Foundation Information

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