Ralph K. Hillquist Honorary SAE Scholarship 2026

This scholarship was established to honor Ralph K. Hillquist, a retiree from General Motors Proving Grounds, and is funded by the SAE Noise & Vibration Conference –and related activities. Hillquist was the founder of the conference, and served on its general committee.

Applications will be judged on the basis of academic performance and leadership activities, with additional consideration given for special study or honors in the field of the award.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Interview Process
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineFebruary 28, 2027
• Study LevelMasters
• SponsorSociety of Automotive Engineers
• Eligible CountryUnited States

Benefits

• This scholarship will be paid into your account at your selected university in July/August.
• The scholarship can be used for tuition or any other incidental school expenses.

Requirements

• U.S. Resident
• Incoming Senior at the time of application
• Pursuing a degree in the area of Noise & Vibration through an ABET accredited program.
• Provide two (2) Letters of Recommendation - one (1) that focuses on academics and one (1) that outlines involvement in extracurricular activities or employment.
• Applicant must be a Mechanical Engineering Major or majoring in a related automotive discipline focusing on automotive development, design, and testing.
• Applicant must detail their studies or experience(s) in the area of the operation and performance of automotive components and systems such as powertrains, suspension and handling, occupant comfort and safety, and similar areas. Examples would include tests with engine dynamometers, vehicle suspension dynamics modeling or testing, interior noise measurements, transmission control dynamics, interior noise control treatment design and selection, engine muffler design, and vehicle ride optimization.   Applicant will discuss the career they hope to pursue.
• Applicants should have a strong background in the areas of dynamics, vibration, control, modeling, and acoustics through course work, extra-curricular/club activity, internships or employment.

This scholarship is generously funded by an external donor and is not sourced from institutional funds.

Selection Process

• Recipient will be selected by the SAE Scholarship Committee and notified by the end of June.
• Applicants not selected will be notified by the end of July.
• This scholarship will be paid into your account at your selected university in July/August.
• The scholarship can be used for tuition or any other incidental school expenses.

Check also:
Fairleigh Dickinson Scholarships for International Students 2026

Application Deadline

How To Apply

For more details, visit SAE Scholarship Webpage