High school seniors whose dreams are to power the future and make a difference through the study of science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) are invited to apply for Edison International’s $1.2 million Edison Scholars Program.

Each year, Edison International, the parent company of Southern California Edison, awards $40,000 scholarships, paid over four years, to 30 high school students who plan to major in designated STEM fields at a four-year accredited U.S. college or university. See the list of eligible STEM majors.

Scholarship applications are now being accepted through Dec. 16. To apply and obtain additional eligibility information, visit edisonscholars.com.

Applicants must live in SCE’s service area (which includes the Santa Clarita Valley) and plan to be a full-time undergraduate student majoring in a STEM field.

Eligible students also must be a high school senior, have at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need.

Students from underserved communities and ethnic minorities are encouraged to apply.

Dependents of Edison International and SCE employees and retirees are not eligible for the Edison Scholars Program.

“These future leaders have the opportunity to change lives, communities and perhaps even the world,” said Pedro Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International. “We are proud to help talented students realize their academic dreams and support these important STEM programs.”

Scholarship recipients will be announced next spring. They may also be eligible for summer internships at SCE after completing their second year of college.

Since 2006, the company has awarded an estimated $9.9 million in scholarships to 640 students through the program.

The support of charitable causes is funded entirely by company shareholders. SCE customers’ utility bill payments do not fund company donations.

Edison International, through its subsidiaries, is a generator and distributor of electric power, as well as a provider of energy services and technologies, including renewable energy. Headquartered in Rosemead, Calif., it is the parent company of Southern California Edison, one of the nation’s largest electric utilities.