ARCS® Foundation, Inc. is a national organization dedicated to supporting the best and brightest U.S. graduate and undergraduate scholars by providing financial awards in science, engineering and medical research. ARCS Foundation advances science and technology in the United States by providing financial awards to academically outstanding U.S. citizens studying to complete degrees in science, engineering and medical research. It is ARCS Foundation's belief that support of STEM education is essential to US economic growth and technological competitiveness, and helps to ensure continued US leadership in global innovation, health and quality of life. In close collaboration with University departments across the United States that are recognized leaders in science and engineering fields, more than 1300 women volunteer members of 15 regional Foundation chapters fund the most promising scholars at the startup or "seed stage" of their work and discovery. ARCS Scholars have gone on to positions of leadership and distinction in across academia, industry, and government efforts. Nine out of 10 ARCS Scholars work in their sponsored fields - sharing knowledge, developing technologies, launching startup companies, and inspiring youth to pursue the challenge of study and careers in STEM fields. A much-sought after recognition indicating outstanding academic achievements, ARCS Scholar Awards are applied towards many areas of research need, and are not restricted to tuition alone.