IIRC student aid began after Russia beat us into space.... and then it was only for students going into fields deemed critical to National security
https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/what-is-stem/STEM comprises the following major areas of study:
Natural, physical, and life sciences, including medicine
Computer, electronics, and other technology-related disciplines
All types of engineering
Mathematics, or any field involving a heavy application of mathematical principles
