The Big Bang Theory's stars, executive producers, crew, studio and network have teamed up to create a STEM scholarship at UCLA named after the show. More than four million dollars has been raised by The Big Bang Theory, the Chuck Lorre Family Foundation and figures in the entertainment industry to support twenty scholars beginning this fall. The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment will support undergraduate students in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in need of financial aid at UCLA.

The inaugural group of scholars will be announced in fall 2015 on the set of The Big Bang Theory. Joining the scholars will be the show's stars, producers, representatives from UCLA and select benefactors. The Big Bang Theory has links to UCLA with star Mayim Bialik having obtained a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the university, while the show's science consultant, David Zaltzberg, Ph.D., a professor of physics and astronomy at UCLA.

The Big Bang Theory co-creator Chuck Lorre said: "We have all been given a gift with The Big Bang Theory, a show that's not only based in the scientific community, but also enthusiastically supported by that same community - this is our opportunity to give back. In that spirit, our Big Bang family has made a meaningful contribution, and together, we'll share in the support of these future scholars, scientists and leaders".

"At UCLA, we pride ourselves on providing opportunities for students from all economic backgrounds," said UCLA Chancellor Gene Block. "UCLA attracts the very best students from around the world, and admission is very competitive. We are grateful for The Big Bang Theory Scholarship Endowment, whose contributors agree with us that economic standing should not hinder a deserving student's shot at a degree from a university of UCLA's caliber."