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University of Rochester

Student Fellowships Office

Fellowships Office

Junior Year

Selected National Scholarships and Fellowships

Current and Rising Juniors

"Fellowship" is a term equivalent to "scholarship." In the present context, neither should be confused with traditional financial aid. This is a selective list of national and international competitive fellowships opportunities.

The fellowship and scholarship programs described below are open to students of junior standing. The federal government, foreign governments, and private philanthropic organizations sponsor these award programs; they provide funding based on academic merit and other criteria to support undergraduate and graduate study in the U.S. and abroad. See the individual programs' official websites for complete information on eligibility requirements, application procedures, application forms, and exact filing deadlines. Many sites also include profiles of past winners.

Some of these programs are officially coordinated at UR by the Fellowships Office (Dewey 4-209B, 276-5869) and are overseen by the Director of Fellowships, Belinda Redden (fellowships@rochester.edu); others are handled by the Center for Study Abroad (2-147 Dewey Hall, 275-7532, abroad@mail.rochester.edu). Many programs do not require any formal University involvement, but students are encouraged to seek advisement from the relevant office for these competitions as well.

Programs preceded by an asterisk (*) require institutional endorsement of candidates.

  • To be considered for nomination, interested students need to first complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire (FPQ) by the specified spring or fall deadline, prior to submitting the official application for campus review.

When University nomination or endorsement is required, campus application deadlines are much earlier than the national application due dates; check with the appropriate office at least a semester in advance if you are interested in applying for any of these awards. In most cases, a faculty committee selects nominees based on a complete draft of the official fellowship application; the campus nomination process may also include an interview.

Please note that the campus application process begins in the junior spring for some senior year competitions with early fall deadlines, e.g., Fulbright, Rhodes, Marshall, and Mitchell.

Please be advised that before we nominate you or endorse your candidacy for a fellowship competition, we will perform a conduct and academic honesty check to confirm that you are in good disciplinary and academic standing.

Jump to a Fellowship Opportunity:

* Beinecke Memorial Scholarship

www.BeineckeScholarship.org

  • For juniors who have demonstrated superior ability ( minimum 3.70 GPA ) in the arts, humanities, or social sciences and who wish to pursue graduate study in one of these areas. Open to U.S. citizens and nationals. History of receiving need-based aid required to be nominated.
  • $34,000 award. There are no geographic restrictions on the use of the scholarship, and recipients are allowed to supplement the award with other scholarships, assistantships and research grants.
  • *UR nomination required; we may select one junior for the national competition.
  • Selection based on academic achievement, intellectual promise, a 1000-word personal essay, financial-need profile, and recommendation letters.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Application by the specified fall deadline in the junior year. A complete, polished draft of the official application is due in early January for the campus nomination process. See the Beinecke binder in the Fellowships Office for examples of essays by past UR applicants. It is strongly recommended that a first draft be submitted for feedback in late November. Click here for UR campus timeline.
  • 18-20 Beinecke Scholars are selected each year.

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* David L. Boren/NSEP (National Security Education Program) Undergraduate Scholarship

www.borenawards.org

  • For undergraduates who are U.S. citizens and wish to study abroad in Africa, Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Latin America, Central America, the Caribbean, or the Middle East.
  • Maximum scholarship awards are: $8,000 for a summer program (special initiative for STEM students only; 8 weeks minimum); $10,000 for a semester and; $20,000 for a full academic year
  • Academic program must include formal study of a modern language other than English and the study of an area and culture considered critical to U.S. national security.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and potential to succeed in the proposed study abroad experience; commitment to international education to fulfill academic and career goals; commitment to seek work in the federal government; and the quality and appropriateness of the proposed program.
  • Undergraduate application process coordinated through the Center for Education Abroad. Application usually due in mid-January.

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Critical Language Scholarship Program

www.clscholarship.org

  • Program of intensive summer institutes offered overseas for language training and cultural enrichment in selected languages deemed of critical importance to the U.S. (e.g. Arabic, Persian, Azerbaijani, Bangla/Bengali, Chinese, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Punjabi, Russian, Turkish, Urdu).
  • Open to currently enrolled students (undergraduates and graduates) in all academic disciplines who are U.S. citizens. Undergraduate candidates must have completed at least one year of college by program start date. Candidates must meet language study prerequisites set for language of interest. Application may be made for only one language.
  • Award covers all CLS program costs.
  • Selection basis includes academic record and potential to succeed in rigorous academic setting, cultural adaptability, diversity, plan for continuation of language study, and plan for use of language studied in future career. Two letters of recommendation from professors and language instructors are required.
  • Application available online and usually due in mid-November.
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DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst/German Academic Exchange Service)

www.daad.org

  • Programs below open to students studying in North America; see website for complete eligibility details.
  • German Studies Research Grant: juniors and seniors majoring or minoring in German may be nominated by their department/program chairs for one- to two-month grants for research work in North America or Germany. Applicants must have completed at least two years of college German and at least three German Studies courses. Application deadlines: November 1st and May 1st.
  • EMGIP (Émigré Memorial German Internship Program)-Bundestag Internship: advanced undergraduates or graduate students with outstanding academic records and fluency in German may apply for this two-month internship program in the German parliament. International students may also apply. Application deadline: mid-September.
  • University Summer Course Grant: students of at least junior standing who have completed a minimum of four semesters of college German (or have attained an equivalent proficiency level) may apply for this grant to fund 3-4 weeks of summer courses at a German university studying literary, cultural, political, and economic aspects of modern and contemporary Germany. Program includes extensive extracurricular activities. Application deadline: usually mid-December.
  • Undergraduate Scholarship: sophomores and juniors with demonstrated interest in German and European affairs may apply for this award to support study abroad, senior thesis research, or internships in Germany. Preference given to applicants whose projects or programs are based at and organized by a German university. Funding available for a minimum of 4 months and a maximum of 10 months during the German academic year (October to July). Proficiency in German is not mandatory, but applicants should have the necessary language skills for the programs they propose to undertake. Application deadline: usually January 31st.
  • RISE-Research Internships in Science and Engineering: sophomores and juniors majoring in a science or engineering field may apply for summer internships of 6 weeks to 3 months; placements provided by Germany university research groups. Knowledge of German not required for most positions but would be helpful for life outside the laboratory. Application deadline: mid-January.
  • Study & Internship Program (SIP) in Germany: sophomores and juniors majoring in an engineering, science, economics, or art/design field may apply for a full semester of study at a participating German university of applied sciences followed by a semester-long paid internship a German company or research institute. Basic German skills helpful, but some courses available in English. Application deadline: usually mid-February.
  • See program website for more detailed information, application forms, and exact filing deadlines.

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* Davis Projects for Peace

http://www.davisprojectsforpeace.org

  • Successful applicants will use their creativity to design projects and employ innovative techniques for conflict resolution, reconciliation, building understanding and breaking down barriers that cause conflict, and finding solutions for resolving conflict and maintaining peace.
  • $10,000 grant for summer grassroots project designed to resolve conflict and maintain peace
  • Open to all undergraduates in all disciplines
  • May be used anywhere in the world
  • Individual and group projects welcome
  • Nomination Requirements: 2-page statement (project description, expected outcomes, prospects for future impact), 1-page budget, a letter of support from collaborating organization or parties, and one general reference from UR instructor or staff supervisor per candidate. Click here for UR campus timeline.
  • Two proposals to be selected by campus review committee.
  • Deadline: usually early January

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* Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

www.iie.org/gilman

  • For undergraduates in any field to pursue full-time international study worldwide but especially in countries outside of Western Europe and Australia. Open to U.S. citizens and nationals receiving a Federal Pell Grant at the time of application.
  • Study periods may be from four weeks up to an academic year. A limited number of summer programs are available.
  • Study abroad program must be approved by the University for academic credit.
  • Awards of up to $5,000; average award is $4,000.
  • Application available online and must be officially endorsed by the Center for Study Abroad.
  • Apply in the academic term prior to the start date of the study abroad program: March for fall and summer study abroad or October for spring study.

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Glamour's Top Ten College Women Competition

http://www.glamour.com/inspired/glamour-top-10-college-women

  • For junior and senior women in any field, of any national origin. Must be legal resident of the U.S. or Canada (void in Quebec).
  • One grand prize of $20,000 and nine $3000 cash prizes plus 3-day trip to NYC, opportunities to meet top female professionals, and recognition in Glamour magazine.
  • Applicants evaluated on academic excellence, leadership experiences, and personal involvement in community and campus affairs.
  • Applications are available online and are usually due in mid-September.

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* Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship

www.act.org/goldwater

  • For outstanding sophomore and junior students (top 25% of class and minimum 3.75 cumulative GPA) in mathematics, natural sciences, or engineering who are preparing for graduate study (usually Ph.D. ) and research-oriented careers in their field. Open to U.S. citizens, resident aliens, or nationals.
  • Worth up to $7500/year for the remaining year(s) of undergraduate study.
  • * UR nomination required; we may select four nominees.
  • Selection made on the basis of superior academic achievement, research experience and scholarly potential, a research essay, and three letters of recommendation.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the specified fall deadline. Complete, polished draft of the official application due in early December for the campus nomination process. It is strongly recommended that a first draft be submitted for feedback by late October. Click here for UR campus timeline. Nominees usually selected by early January.
  • Approximately 300 Goldwater Scholars are selected each spring.

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Humane Studies Fellowship

www.theihs.org

  • For juniors, seniors, and graduate students of any nationality "embarking on liberty-advancing careers in ideas;" must have clearly demonstrated interest in the classical liberal/libertarian tradition of individual rights and free-market economies. Open to candidates from various fields of study.
  • Awards of $2,000 to $15,000; may be used at any degree-granting institution in the U.S. or abroad.
  • Selection based on academic performance, relevant admission test scores (GRE, LSAT, SAT, etc.), demonstrated interest in classical liberal ideas, and potential to contribute to "the advancement of a free society."
  • Application can be downloaded and usually must be postmarked no later than January 31st.
  • Approximately 100 IHS fellowships are awarded each year.

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Humanity in Action Foundation Fellowship

www.humanityinaction.org

  • International human rights education and internship program sponsored by foundation "devoted to the study and betterment of human rights and specifically the relationship between majority and minority populations." Students from any national background of sophomore through senior standing may apply.
  • Students may participate in U.S.-only or European program. Fellowship program includes seminars, workshops, site visits, and meetings with figures from various fields, such as academia, government, journalism, and human rights organizations.
  • Selection based on leadership potential, academic achievement, interest in minority issues, concern for human rights, willingness to engage in intellectually and socially rigorous work in group settings, maturity, and self-reliance.
  • Foundation pays expenses for participation and accommodations and provides a modest stipend for meals. Travel expenses may be covered for students with documented need.
  • Application deadline: early January. See program website for more detailed information, application forms, and exact filing deadline.

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Josephine de Kármán Fellowship

www.dekarman.org

  • For juniors of any national origin pursuing studies in any discipline. Special consideration given to qualified applicants in the humanities.
  • $14,000 fellowship to fund the senior year of undergraduate study in the U.S.
  • Selection criteria include evidence of exceptional ability and seriousness of purpose.
  • Application requires a 250-300-word statement of intellectual interest and two letters of recommendation.
  • Application is available online and usually due in late January.
  • Approximately 10 fellowships are awarded each spring.

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McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program

http://rochester.edu/college/kearnscenter/CollegePrograms/McNair.html

  • For sophomores and juniors to pursue academic research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are (1) members of an underrepresented minority group (African American, Hispanic, or Native American) or (2) low-income, first-generation college students . Aim is to encourage these students to pursue doctoral degrees.
  • Must have a minimum cumulative and major GPA of 2.80.
  • Program offers academic-year option ($1200 stipend) or full-time summer option ($3600 stipend, room & board, and travel expenses). Participants gain experience presenting their research and receive guidance on graduate-school application process.
  • Contact Beth Olivares (beth.olivares@rochester.edu) in the McNair Program Office, Hylan 717, 5-7512 or 5-1402.
  • Application deadlines: early December for academic-year program; early February for summer program.

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National Institutes of Health Undergraduate Scholarship Program

www.training.nih.gov/programs/ugsp

  • For students committed to pursuing health-related research careers in biomedical, behavioral, or social science fields. Open to U.S. citizens, nationals, or qualified permanent residents with a history of significant financial need. First-years through juniors may apply; first priority given to junior applicants.
  • Scholarship worth up to $20,000 per year. Other benefits include 10-week paid summer internship at NIH , professional mentoring, scientific seminars, and employment after completion of graduate school.
  • Minimum 3.50 GPA required.
  • Application available online or from the Fellowships Office. National deadline usually in late February; present draft application to the Fellowships Office by mid-January for critical feedback.

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New York Women in Communications, Inc. (NYWICI) Foundation Scholarship

www.nywici.org/students/scholarships

  • For undergraduates and graduate students majoring in a communications-related field and aspiring to a career in this area. Open to U.S. citizens who are permanent residents of NY, NJ, CT, or PA.
  • Worth up to $10,000.
  • Selection criteria include academic excellence (minimum 3.20 GPA overall), financial need, leadership, campus and community service, honors, involvement in communications-related activities, personal essay, and statement of goals and aspirations. Two reference letters are also required.
  • Application available online and usually due in late January.

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Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship

www.ppiaprogram.org/about

  • For juniors in any academic field with strong interest in public and/or international affairs and desire to prepare for professional roles in the field by pursuing master's degree. Program targets students from historically under-represented groups, but applications also welcome from any individual who can demonstrate commitment to PPIA's diversity goals. All PPIA participating universities accept applications from U.S. citizens and permanent residents; Princeton and Carnegie Mellon will also accept applications from international students.
  • Program includes full tuition and stipend for Junior Summer Institute (JSI) at a participating university, GRE preparation, partial funding for graduate school, internships, and other professional development opportunities.
  • Application available online and usually due November 1st.

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SMART Scholarship for Service Program (Science, Mathematics & Research for Transformation)

smart.asee.org

  • For undergraduates and graduate students pursuing degrees in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields who have demonstrated ability and special aptitude for excelling in their fields. Applicants should have strong interest in theoretical and applied research as well as interest in working for the Department of Defense as civilian research scientists and engineers. Only U.S. citizens may apply.
  • Minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA required.
  • Application requires two letters of recommendation.
  • Award includes full tuition and eligible expenses, annual cash award of at least $25,000, summer internships, and post-graduation employment opportunities in DoD laboratories and agencies.
  • Application available online and usually due early December.

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*  Harry S. Truman Scholarship

www.truman.gov

  • For outstanding juniors (top 25% of class and minimum 3.60 cumulative GPA) in any field who are change agents, plan to pursue a career in government or elsewhere in public service, and wish to attend graduate or professional school to help prepare for career. Open to U.S. citizens and nationals.
  • Students from all majors may apply, but some coursework in political science, policy studies, or social analysis strongly recommended.
  • $30,000 scholarship for graduate study. Other benefits include a week of seminars and networking with prominent public servants at the Truman Library, graduate-school and professional mentoring, as well as internship opportunities.
  • *UR nomination required; we may nominate up to four juniors.
  • Scholars selected on basis of academic achievement; exceptional leadership, community service, participation in local or national elective politics, or advocacy work; a policy proposal; 3 letters of recommendation.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the specified fall deadline of the junior year. Complete, polished draft application for the campus nomination process due in early November for review by campus committee. Nomination process includes campus interview. A first draft must be submitted for feedback in late October. Click here for UR campus timeline. See Truman binder in the Fellowships Office for examples of application essays and policy proposals by past UR applicants.
  • 75-80 Truman Scholars are selected each spring.

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Tylenol Scholarship Program

http://tylenol.com/news/scholarship

  • For students majoring in an area that may lead to a health-related career.
  • Ten scholarships worth $10,000, 30 scholarships worth $5000.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and leadership in community and school activities.
  • Application available online and usually due in late April.

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* Udall Scholarship

Udall Undergraduate Scholarship

  • For full-time sophomores and juniors in any major (1) with a strong demonstrated commitment to environmental issues OR (2) who are Native American/Alaska Native and also committed to Native American healthcare OR tribal public policy. Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and U.S. nationals.
  • Up to $5,000 for tuition, room and board, or other educational expenses. Students who win as sophomores may re-apply in the junior year.
  • Minimum 3.55 cumulative GPA.
  • * UR nomination is required; we may select up to six nominees.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and honors, record of leadership and service, relevant work experience, letters of recommendation, and a critical essay discussing Congressman Morris K. Udall's or Secretary Stewart L. Udall's public policy work and its relation to the applicant's interests and career goals.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Application by the specified fall deadline. Complete, polished draft of the application for the campus nomination process due in early January. It is strongly recommended that a first draft be submitted for feedback by mid-November. Click here for UR campus timeline. See Udall binder in Fellowships Office for examples of application essays by past UR applicants.
  • Approximately 75 Udall Scholars selected each spring.

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* UNCF-Merck Undergraduate Science Research Scholarship

THIS PROGRAM APPEARS TO HAVE BEEN SUSPENDED.

www.uncf.org

  • For African-American juniors who are life science, engineering, or physical science majors planning graduate study and research-oriented career. Open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
  • Undergraduate award worth up to $30,000; also includes eligibility for a summer internship at a Merck research facility (applied for separately).
  • Scholars selected on basis of academic achievement (minimum 3.30/4.0 GPA required, minimum 3.55 recommended), demonstrated interest in their own scientific education and a career in scientific research or engineering, and their ability to perform in a laboratory or engineering environment.
  • *UR endorsement required.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the specified fall deadline of the junior year. A complete, polished draft of the official application is due in mid-November. However, a first draft of the application should be submitted by mid-October for initial feedback.
  • Application available online.
  • Approximately 15 scholarships awarded each spring.

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All-USA Today College Academic Team

http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/marketing/academic_teams/index.html

  • For juniors and seniors of any national origin and any academic discipline who have distinguished themselves through high academic achievement, creativity, unusual service to others, and effective leadership.
  • $2500 cash award, trophy, and recognition in USA Today for First Team winners. See scholar profiles online.
  • Application requires an essay on most outstanding intellectual endeavor, which can be in scholarly research, the creative or performing arts, community service, or public affairs.
  • Application available online; deadline has varied between late November and late February; check website.
  • 20 cash awards made each year. Winners announced in May.

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Additional Information

Please check our website periodically for announcements and updates regarding campus application procedures and deadlines. Look ahead to senior-year awards >

Selected searchable fellowships databases>

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Fellowships Office