SAE Detroit Section Launches $5,000 Student Leadership Awards for Collegiate Design Series Participants
SAE Detroit Section is proud to recognize outstanding student leaders participating in SAE Collegiate Design Series (CDS) competitions. Through this new awards program, the Section will present two $5,000 awards to each SAE Detroit Section Collegiate Chapter to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership, commitment, and impact within their CDS teams.
Awards will be based on the following criteria:
- Leadership, initiative, and overall team impact
- Teamwork, collaboration, and accountability
- Communication skills, mentorship, and professional presence
- Engineering judgment, service, and community engagement
Applications due April 30, 2027
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be currently enrolled in one of the following SAE Detroit Section Collegiate Chapters:
- Lawrence Technological University
- Oakland University
- University of Detroit Mercy
- University of Michigan-Dearborn
- University of Toledo
- Wayne State University
- Have completed at least 60 college credit hours
- Have participated in a CDS team (Formula SAE, Baja SAE, or Aero Design) within the past 12 months
- Be an SAE student member in good standing for at least 12 consecutive months at the time of application
- Be a U.S. citizen
How to Apply
After January 5, 2027, begin the online application process via the “Click here to apply” button that will be added to this page.
- Create a user account to access the application portal
- Complete the eligibility screening
- Submit the required application materials, including:
- CDS team involvement
- CDS leadership experience
- CDS-related outreach, service, and professional development activities
- Faculty Advisor endorsement
Important Application Notes
- Complete all sections of the application before submission
- Verify that every section is marked "Complete" prior to selecting "Submit"
- Once submitted, applications cannot be edited or revised
- Selected applicants may be invited to participate in a brief interview with the SAE Detroit Section Awards Committee
Selection and Notification
Two recipients from each participating collegiate chapter will be selected by the SAE Detroit Section Awards Committee. Award recipients will be notified by the end of June 2027.
Award Payment
- Award checks will be mailed to recipients by the end of August 2027
- Award payments may be subject to applicable federal, state, and local income taxes
For additional information, email scholarships@sae-detroit.org or call (248) 324-4445 ext. 3.
