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Fellowships Office

Senior Year and Beyond

Selected National Scholarships and Fellowships

Current and Rising Seniors, Recent Alumni, Graduate Students

The fellowship and scholarship programs described below are open to graduating seniors, recent graduates, and early graduate students. This is a selective list. 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 advanced study or research in the U.S. and abroad after completion of the bachelor‘s degree. 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 Education 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 marked with an asterisk (*) require institutional endorsement of candidates. In these cases, prospective applicants need to first complete the campus Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire (FPQ), not a specific fellowship application, by the specified spring or fall deadline in order to be considered for University nomination.

A faculty committee selects nominees based on a complete, polished draft of the official fellowship application. The nomination process may also include a campus interview. The campus application deadlines for programs requiring University nomination are much earlier than national deadlines. See the online fellowships calendar for further details.

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.

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, Mitchell.

Students interested in any of the fellowships below are encouraged to consult the Director of Fellowships in the Fellowships Office (4-209B Dewey, 585-276-5869) as early as possible.

The Leonore Annenberg Teaching Fellowship

PLEASE NOTE: This program has been discontinued; see the Foundation's announcement HERE.

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David L. Boren/NSEP (National Security Education Program) Graduate International Fellowship

www.borenawards.org

  • For seniors and recent graduates currently applying to a U.S. graduate-degree program and for currently enrolled graduate students from a broad range of disciplines. U.S. citizenship required.
  • Supports the study of languages, cultures, and world regions deemed critical to national security but less frequently studied by U.S. graduate students, i.e., Eastern Europe, Africa, non-Western Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, Latin America. 80+ languages and 50+ countries emphasized.
  • Awards made for 1-6 academic semesters for overseas or domestic study or a combination of both. Maximum $30,000 available for combined overseas and domestic study program.
  • Fields of study with national security implications can include international relations, political science, history, policy studies, business and economics, information technology, engineering and applied sciences, ecology and sustainable development, international public health, biomedical sciences, arms control, population growth and migration, among others.
  • Selection based on academic excellence, strength of proposal, plan for advanced language competency, relation of program to academic field and career goals as well as national security, commitment to federal service.
  • Application available online; filing deadline usually in late January.

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* Churchill Scholarship

www.winstonchurchillfoundation.org

  • For seniors majoring in engineering, mathematics, or science fields. U.S. citizenship required.
  • Supports one year of graduate study for pursuit of master's degree at University of Cambridge.
  • Selection based on academic achievement (minimum 3.9 GPA recommended); GRE scores; recommendation letters; capacity for original, creative work; character; adaptability; demonstrated leadership; and concern for critical problems of society.
  • *UR nomination required; two candidates may be nominated.
  • Campus nomination process begins in spring, when eligible candidates are invited to a Churchill information session. Nomination materials are usually due in late April, and nominees are selected in May.
  • Nominees will need to submit the Cambridge online graduate admission application by early October to secure acceptance into their desired degree program. Additionally, nominees will also complete the Churchill Scholarship application by the early November campus deadline. Four references are needed for the Churchill application. 
  • Questions may be directed to Belinda Redden, Director of Fellowships (fellowships@rochester.edu). 
  • Approximately 14 Churchill Scholars selected each year.

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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

  • Study Scholarship: graduating seniors, bachelor’s degree holders not currently enrolled in a course of study, and master’s degree candidates in all academic fields may apply for this 10-month graduate-study scholarship with the possibility of a one-year extension. Must have well-defined study or research project that requires a stay in Germany. Application deadline: early November.
  • 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.
  • 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 top German university research groups. Knowledge of German not required for most positions but would be helpful for life outside the laboratory. Two-week intensive language course available for participants with little or no German. Application deadline: mid-January.
  • RISE Professional: summer program offering internships with leading German companies to graduating seniors and current graduate students in science and engineering fields to improve practical and professional skills in an international environment. Undergraduates who are DAAD alumni may also apply. Participants receive stipends from DAAD and the host companies. Knowledge of German not required for most positions but would be helpful for life outside the laboratory. Two-week intensive language course available for participants with little or no German. Application cycle: early December to late January.
  • University Summer Course Grant: students of at least junior standing and 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.
  • 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.
  • Submit application materials and a resume for each applicant via email to Belinda Redden, Director of Fellowships, at fellowships@rochester.edu. Two proposals to be selected by campus review committee.
  • Deadline: usually early January

Department of Energy Science Graduate Fellowship

http://science.energy.gov/wdts/scgf

  • For seniors and early graduate students in math, science, and engineering fields to pursue research-based master's or Ph.D. degrees in areas relevant to the DOE's Office of Science. Must be U.S. citizen and currently enrolled full time at the time of application.
  • Fellowship provides partial tuition support (up to $10,500), annual $35,000 living stipend, and research stipend of $5000/year at a U.S. institution for three years.
  • Minimum 3.3/4.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA required.
  • Selection based on academic performance, scientific and/or technical merit of proposed research plan, scientific and technical contributions outside the classroom. GRE scores are not required.
  • Application includes two essays and requires three letters of recommendation.
  • Application usually due in late November.
  • Fellows announced in April.
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Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship

http://sites.nationalacademies.org/pga/FordFellowships/

  • For seniors, holders of bachelor’s degrees, and individuals who have completed some graduate study and plan a career in university teaching or research. Open to U.S. citizens, undocumented students who have received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, or U.S. nationals of any racial or national origin with demonstrated commitment to program's diversity goals.
  • 3 years' pre-doctoral funding ($20,000/year stipend plus tuition and fee allowances) for pursuit of Ph.D. or Sc.D. degree in an eligible field of study in the humanities, social sciences, or natural and applied sciences, at any U.S. institution.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and scholarly promise; letters of recommendation; suitability of the proposed graduate institution for the plan of graduate study; the applicant’s ability to present a well-written, thoughtfully prepared application; GRE scores encouraged but optional for applicants seeking admission to graduate school.
  • Application available online; filing deadline usually early November.
  • Approximately 40 Ford Predoctoral Fellows selected each April.

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* Fulbright U.S. Student Program

us.fulbrightonline.org

  • For seniors, current graduate students, and recent alumni who are U.S. citizens and wish to spend a year abroad; over 140 cooperating countries from which to choose.
  • Applicants propose a program of university study, independent research, creative and performing arts projects or English Teaching Assistantships (in selected countries). Must have compelling, intellectually motivated rationale for choice of country and institution.
  • Fulbright grants cover tuition and round-trip international travel and provide a monthly living stipend.
  • Candidates responsible for arranging appropriate institutional affiliation in the proposed host country—i.e., applying for admission and/or finding a research supervisor; this process can take 3-9 months and should be started by the spring preceding the fall competition. Applications must be prepared over spring and summer preceding the fall competition.
  • *UR nomination required for currently enrolled students; unenrolled recent graduates may also apply through UR and must observe campus deadlines. Alumni may choose to apply at-large without UR endorsement.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the designated deadline in the spring semester preceding the fall competition.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and qualifications (including linguistic) for the proposed project; coherence and feasibility of the project; strength of the project in relation to the host country; a personal essay; evidence of maturity and adaptability; commitment to engaging with host community; and recommendation letters. See Fulbright Binder in the Fellowships Office for examples of project proposals and personal essays.
  • Complete, polished application due in mid-August; drafts should be submitted for critical feedback in spring and summer prior to fall campus application deadline. Candidates endorsed following early September review of applications and interview by faculty committee.
  • New application usually available online as of May 1st; sample applications available anytime from the Fellowships Office in Dewey 4-209B.
  • Approximately 1000 Fulbright Scholars named each spring.

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* James C. Gaither (formerly Carnegie) Junior Fellows Program

N.B.In honor of former Carnegie Endowment Chairman of the Board James C. Gaither, the Carnegie Junior Fellows Program will henceforth be known formally as the James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program.

http://carnegieendowment.org/about/jr-fellows

  • For seniors and recent alumni within one year of graduation. Applicants welcome from broad range of disciplinary backgrounds. Minimum 3.70 GPA, appropriate foreign-language skills, strong background in international affairs/political science, and relevant experiences highly recommended. All national origins welcome, but non-citizens must be able to work in the U.S. for the tenure of the program.
  • One-year, full-time, paid total immersion program in international affairs. Fellows spend year at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace in Washington, D.C., under mentorship of senior associates in field of interest. Junior fellows conduct research, write articles and reports, give presentations, and engage in outreach in areas such as democracy building; U.S. foreign policy; nuclear non-proliferation; international economic reform; studies on China, Eurasia, Russia; and Middle East political reform, among others.
  • Selection based on academic merit, leadership, future promise. Application requires two essays, résumé, and two letters of recommendation.
  • *UR nomination required; two students may be nominated.
  • Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire due in early fall.
  • Official fellowship application available from Director of Fellowships in early October. Complete, polished application for campus nomination process due in mid-November. However, a first draft should be submitted by late October for initial feedback. Click here for UR campus timeline.
  • Nomination process includes interview by faculty committee.
  • 8-10 Junior Fellows selected each spring.

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Gates Cambridge Scholarship

www.gatesscholar.org

  • For seniors, current graduate students, and recent graduates under 30 years of age. Citizens from every country outside the UK are eligible to apply.
  • Supports up to three years of study in any field at University of Cambridge for pursuit of a second bachelor's degree, a one-year post-graduate course, or research leading to the Ph.D.
  • Scholarship covers full tuition costs, fees, and round-trip travel and also includes maintenance as well as further discretionary allowances.
  • Prospective applicants first apply directly to Cambridge for admission through the normal application process and then follow guidelines to be considered for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Plan to have application completed by October 1st.
  • Selection based on outstanding academic achievement, scholarly promise, leadership potential, and commitment to use talents creatively to improve the common good.
  • Cambridge application materials may be downloaded from the Cambridge website.
  • Application procedures and receipt deadlines differ according to country of origin and proposed degree level. U.S. applicant deadline: usually early October for graduate study, early November for undergraduate programs.
  • Approximately 100 Gates Cambridge Scholars named each spring.

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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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Fannie and John Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship

www.hertzfoundation.org

  • For seniors and current graduate students intending to pursue a Ph.D. in an applied physical, biological, or engineering science field at one of the fellowship program’s tenable schools. U.S. citizens and permanent residents eligible.
  • $31,000/year, renewable for maximum five years of funding. Deferrals possible if awarded another fellowship.
  • May support the Ph.D. portion of a joint M.D./Ph.D. program.
  • Must also be willing to morally commit to making skills available to the United States in time of national emergency.
  • Selection criteria include outstanding academic achievement (minimum 3.75 GPA recommended) and evidence of creativity in technical endeavors, GRE scores, demonstrated excellence in applied science, personal character, and morality.
  • Annual application period opens in August; application available online and normally due by late October. Interviewees selected by mid-November.
  • Approximately 25 Hertz Fellows 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 a 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 up 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 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 international 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 modest stipend for meals. Travel expenses may be covered for students with documented need.
  • Application deadline: early January. Finalists selected by mid-February. See program website for more detailed information, application forms, and exact filing deadline.

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Samuel Huntington Public Service Award

www.samuelhuntingtonaward.org

  • Any graduating senior may apply for this $15,000 stipend to pursue a one-year public service project anywhere in the U.S. or the world following completion of undergraduate degree. Projects may be self-designed and completed by the student alone or done through an established charitable, religious, educational, governmental, or other public service organization.
  • Selection based on proposal quality, academic record, and other personal achievements. Applicants notified of status by mid-April; semi-finalists interviewed prior to final selections.
  • Application requires 1000-word proposal, budget, three letters of recommendation, resume, and transcripts.
  • Application due mid-January.
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Knowles Science Teaching Foundation Fellowship

http://kstf.org/fellowships/

  • For seniors and recent graduates with majors in math, science, or engineering who plan to enroll, or are currently enrolled, in an accredited teacher training program (master's degree) leading to a license to teach math or science at the high-school level. Open to applicants of any national origin.
  • Award valued at nearly $150,000 over five-year fellowship period and includes tuition assistance, monthly stipends, and grants for professional development and teaching materials.
  • Selection based on science or math content knowledge, commitment to teaching, professional ability, and leadership. Applicants must secure admission to graduate school on their own.
  • Application requires three 600-word essays, resume/CV, and three references.
  • Finalists invited to face-to-face interviews, which are conducted in March. Fellows announced in April.
  • Application process opens in September, with final deadline in early January.

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*The Language Flagship Fellowship

PLEASE NOTE: This program has been discontinued; see the Foundation's announcement HERE.

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James Madison Memorial Junior Fellowship

www.jamesmadison.com

  • For seniors and recent graduates planning to teach U.S. history, government, or social studies at the secondary school level and who wish to pursue a master’s degree that includes study of the U.S. Constitution. U.S. citizens and nationals may apply.
  • Up to $24,000 over two years for tuition, books, fees, and room and board. Program includes a 4-week summer institute at Georgetown University.
  • Must commit to teach courses relating to the Constitution in a secondary school (grades 7-12) for no less than one year.
  • Selection based on academic achievement, civic mindedness and participation, recommendation letters, and a 600-word essay.
  • Application available online.
  • Prospective candidates should contact Professor Richard Niemi of the Department of Political Science, Harkness 320A, by November 15th preceding the spring application deadline.
  • National deadline usually March 1st.

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* Marshall Scholarship

www.marshallscholarship.org

  • For seniors and recent graduates who are U.S. citizens and wish to study for one or two years in a degree program in any field of study at any university in the United Kingdom. Must have very strong, intellectually based rationale for choice of institution(s).
  • Provides funding for university fees, books, living allowance, travel, and research.
  • Selection criteria include superior academic achievement (minimum 3.70 GPA), exceptional promise of significant contribution to field or profession, outstanding leadership ability, demonstrated community-mindedness and ambassadorial potential. See scholar profiles online.
  • Application requires personal essay, study proposal, and four letters of recommendation, at least two of which must be provided by faculty with whom the applicant has studied. See Marshall Binder in the Fellowships Office for essay samples.
  • *UR nomination required for currently enrolled students and recent graduates.
  • Prospective candidates should consult the Director of Fellowships and complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the designated deadline in the spring semester preceding the fall competition. The campus review process begins in the spring semester. Nomination process includes interview by faculty committee.
  • Preparation of the official scholarship application during the spring and summer is necessary. Complete, polished application due in mid-August. However, early drafts should be submitted in preceding spring and summer for critical feedback. Click here to view the campus timeline.
  • Application available online; sample copies also available in the Fellowships Office.
  • Applications also welcomed from highly qualified recent graduates.
  • Up to 40 Marshall Scholars are named each November.

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Math for America Newton Fellowship Program

www.mathforamerica.org

  • Graduating seniors and recent graduates who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents interested in improving the quality of math education in the nation may apply for this five-year fellowship and mentoring program that funds a master’s degree in preparation for a high-school teaching career.
  • Open to mathematically talented individuals from various academic backgrounds. Must have completed substantial coursework in math and math-related areas. Math major not necessary.
  • Minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA required.
  • Benefits include full-tuition fellowship for one-year, full-time graduate study in teacher preparation program, stipend of $100,000 over five years, support for NY State Teacher Certification, professional development and mentoring services. See program website for further details.
  • Must teach math in NYC public school for four years.
  • Applicants must take two Praxis Series Tests in mathematics; tests offered in September, November, and January.
  • Application available online after Labor Day; filing deadline: usually mid-January. MFA NY early decision deadline: October 1st.

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* George J. Mitchell Scholarship

www.us-irelandalliance.org/content/3/en/George Mitchell Scholarship Program | US-Ireland Alliance.html

  • For seniors, recent alumni, and graduate students (under age 30 by September 30th of year of application) who are U.S. citizens and interested in a one-year graduate degree in any field at any institution of higher learning in Ireland or Northern Ireland.
  • The Mitchell covers tuition as well as travel and living expenses.
  • Selection based on academic achievement (minimum 3.7 GPA recommended), exceptional leadership and service to others, character. See scholar profiles online.
  • Application requires a 1,000-word essay and four letters of recommendation, at least two of which must be provided by faculty with whom the applicant has studied.
  • *UR nomination required for currently enrolled undergraduate students only. Alumni and graduate-student candidates do not need institutional endorsement.
  • Prospective candidates for endorsement should consult the Director of Fellowships and complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire (FPQ) by the designated deadline in the spring semester preceding the fall competition. The campus review process begins in the spring semester. Nomination process includes interview by faculty committee in spring or early fall.
  • Preparation of the official scholarship application during the spring and summer is highly recommended. Complete, polished application and recommendation letters are due in mid-August for nomination consideration. Click hereto view the campus timeline.
  • Official application available and submitted online.
  • 12 Mitchell Scholars are named each November.

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National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship (NDSEG)

ndseg.sysplus.com

  • For seniors and first-year graduate students for pursuit of Ph.D. in mathematical, physical, biological, ocean, and engineering sciences, as well as certain related interdisciplinary fields. Eligibility restricted to U.S. citizens and nationals.
  • 3-year fellowship tenable at any accredited U.S. institution of higher education; includes full tuition and fees plus annual stipend of $30,500-$31,500.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and demonstrated aptitude for advanced study in science or engineering, GRE scores (subject test optional but highly recommended where applicable), and three reference letters.
  • Sponsored by Dept. of Defense but Fellows incur no military or government service obligation.
  • Application available online and submitted electronically. Filing deadline for complete application usually in early December.
  • Approximately 170 Fellows are named each April.

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National Physical Science Consortium Graduate Fellowship in the Physical Sciences

www.npsc.org

  • For seniors and early graduate students who are U.S. citizens intending to pursue a Ph.D. in an eligible physical science or related engineering field (see program website for complete list) at a participating NPSC university (there are more than 100 member institutions).
  • Provides annual $20,000 stipend renewable for up to six years; the applicant's graduate institution covers tuition and fees. Benefits also include two paid summer research internships with leading national employers.
  • All qualified applicants are welcome; under-represented minorities and women especially encouraged to apply.
  • Selection is based on academic achievement (minimum required GPA is 3.0/4.0), academic preparation for the proposed graduate degree, research experience, recommendation letters, GRE scores.
  • Application available online and usually due in late November.
  • Approximately 15 Fellows named each March.

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National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship

www.nsfgrfp.org

  • For seniors, recent graduates, early graduate students pursuing research-based master’s or Ph.D. degrees in mathematics, physical and biological sciences, engineering, and certain behavioral and social sciences. Support also available for research-based STEM education degrees. U.S. citizens, nationals, and permanent residents may apply.
  • Includes Women in Engineering (WENG) and Women in Computer and Information Science (WISE) fellowship programs.
  • Up to three years of support, including tuition and annual stipend of $30,000 plus other allowances. Includes international research and professional development opportunities.
  • Selection based on intellectual merit and the potential to contribute significantly to the broader scientific, educational, and societal impact the program seeks to promote.
  • Consult Director of Fellowships for advisement and see NSF binder in the Fellowships Office for sample essays. Although UR endorsement is not required, completion of campus FPQ by early fall is highly recommended.
  • Application available online in August. Filing deadlines in early to mid-November and vary by field of study. Reference letters also due by application deadline.
  • At least 1000 NSF Graduate Research Fellows named each March.

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

http://www.nywici.org/students/scholarships

  • For undergraduates and current 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.
  • Award worth $10,000.
  • Selection based on academic excellence (minimum 3.2 cumulative GPAl), financial need, leadership, campus and community service, honors, involvement in communications-related activities, personal essay, statement of goals and aspirations, reference letters.
  • Application available online in mid-November and usually due in late January.

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Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program

http://woodrow.org/fellowships/pickering/#about

  • For seniors who are U.S. citizens seeking admission to a two-year master's degree program in fields such as public policy, international affairs, public administration, or academic fields such as foreign languages, political science, economics, business, or sociology, and who are interested in pursuing a Foreign Service career.
  • Covers tuition, room, board, and fees, with reimbursement for books and some travel up to $37,500. Fellows also receive paid summer internships in the U.S. and abroad plus mentoring from a foreign service officer.
  • Selection based on academic achievement (minimum 3.20 GPA), leadership skills, and financial need. GRE test scores required.
  • Applications from women and members of under-represented minority groups encouraged.
  • Application available online and usually due in September.

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* Rhodes Scholarship

www.rhodesscholar.org

  • For seniors and recent graduates 18-24 years of age interested in two years of graduate study for pursuit of a degree/s in any field at University of Oxford. (Candidates may also apply for the Rhodes for only one year of study at Oxford.)
  • U.S. citizens and permanent residents with at least five years of continuous legal permanent residency in the U.S. prior to the annual October application deadline may apply for an American Rhodes Scholarship.
  • Students from British Commonwealth and selected other countries may also apply according to the procedures for their country of origin. See website for full details.
  • Selection criteria include exceptional scholarly achievement (minimum 3.80 GPA recommended), distinguished leadership and service to others, character, evidence of physical vitality, and commitment to using talents for the betterment of humanity. See scholar profiles online.
  • *UR nomination required for enrolled undergraduates. Recent undergraduate alumni who are not matriculated at another institution may also apply for nomination by UR and must observe campus deadlines and procedures.
  • Application requires 1,000-word personal essay, list of extracurricular activities and honors, and 5-8 letters of recommendation, at least four of which must be provided by faculty with whom the applicant has studied.
  • Prospective candidates should consult the Director of Fellowships and complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire (FPQ) by the designated deadline in the spring semester preceding the fall competition. The campus review process begins in the spring semester. Nomination process includes interview by faculty committee in spring or early fall.
  • Preparation of the official scholarship application during the spring and summer is highly recommended. Complete, polished application and at least five letters are due in mid-August for nomination consideration. Clickhere to view the campus timeline.
  • Application materials are available online.
  • 32 American Rhodes Scholars are named each December.

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* Saint Andrew's Society of New York Graduate Scholarship

http://www.standrewsny.org/Scholarship

  • For seniors who are Scottish-American U.S. citizens wishing to pursue a year of graduate study and cultural exchange in Scotland.
  • $30,000 award for graduate tuition, board, transportation and other expenses.
  • Preference given to students who have not studied previously in the UK.
  • Selection based on academic achievement (minimum 3.70 GPA recommended), letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, evidence of leadership, personal objectives, and financial need.
  • *UR nomination required; one senior may be nominated.
  • Prospective candidates should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by the designated fall deadline.
  • Complete, polished application for the campus nomination process due November 1st. However, a first draft should be submitted by early October for initial feedback. Click here for UR campus timeline.
  • Application materials available in the Fellowships Office or directly from the Society, which can be reached by telephone at (212) 223-4248, or by e-mail at office@standrewny.org.

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Schwarzman Scholars Program

http://schwarzmanscholars.org/program

  • For graduating seniors and recent college graduates of any nationality and any academic major to pursue a one-year master’s degree in Public Policy, International Relations, or Economics and Business at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Program taught in English; prior knowledge of Mandarin not required. Must be proficient in English and no older than 28 years of age.
  • Scholarship fully funds all academic, travel, and living costs.
  • 200 scholars selected each year. Scholar representation: 45% (US), 20% (China), 35% (rest of the world).
  • Rigorous selection progress requiring record of outstanding academic achievement and proven intellectual ability along with demonstrated “leadership potential, strength of character, ability to anticipate paradigm changes, and desire to understand other cultures, perspectives, and positions.”
  • Interested students may seek advisement from the Fellowships Office over the spring and summer prior to the fall competition cycle.
  • Application is completed and submitted online and requires several essays (e.g., Personal, Leadership, Current Affairs) as well as a resume/CV, transcripts, and three letters of reference. Additionally, applicants provide a 30-second video self-introduction.
  • Short-listed candidates will be invited to participate in an interview in November; admission decisions will be made between late November and mid-December.
  • Application available online. Deadline: usually late September.

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Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship

www.scoville.org

  • Seniors, recent graduates, and current graduate students may apply for this full-time six- to nine-month opportunity to gain practical knowledge and experience in key issues related to peace and security by serving as project assistants with 27 participating public-interest organizations in Washington, D.C.
  • U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens able to obtain the proper work visa may apply.
  • selection based on record of academic excellence, demonstrated interest in peace and security issues as reflected through coursework or independent study, and experience with public-interest activism or advocacy.
  • Fellows receive $2400 monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel expenses as well as $500 to attend relevant conferences or meetings.
  • Application requires letter of interest, curriculum vitae, personal essay, policy/opinion essay, two letters of reference, and academic transcript.
  • Application deadlines: early October for spring fellowship, early January for fall fellowship.
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Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans

www.pdsoros.org

  • For seniors, recipients of bachelor's degrees, and currently enrolled first- and second-year graduate students for up to two years of graduate study at a U.S. institution. Must be no more than 30 years old and a permanent resident, naturalized citizen, or child of a parent who is a naturalized citizen.
  • 2-year fellowship covering up to $20,000 in graduate tuition and fees, and up to $25,000/year maintenance allowance.
  • Selection based on academic achievement and evidence of at least two of the following criteria: creativity, accomplishment, and commitment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights in any endeavors. Appropriate graduate aptitude test results (i.e., GMAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT) required. See scholar profiles online.
  • Application includes two essays and also requires two letters of recommendation.
  • Prospective candidates are encouraged to seek advisement from the Fellowships Office and should complete the Fellowships Preliminary Questionnaire by August 1st of the year of application. Candidates should also plan to submit a draft of the Soros application essays by early September for feedback
  • Application available online; national deadline is usually November 1st.
  • 30 Soros Fellows are named each spring.

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The Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship

http://woodrow.org/fellowships/ww-teaching-fellowships/

  • The Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowships (WWTF) are state-based programs that seek to attract talented, committed individuals with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) into teaching in high-need urban and rural secondary schools. There are currently programs in Indiana, Michigan, Georgia, New Jersey, and Ohio.
  • Program open to seniors, recent graduates, and career-changers with appropriate undergraduate degrees. Fellows pursue master's level teacher education programs at schools in the participating states. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
  • Fellowship benefits include $30,000 stipend, guidance toward certification, and intensive mentoring and professional development over three-year teaching commitment.
  • Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergraduate GPA required.
  • Each state participant offers programs at multiple institutions; see website for full details. Candidates must apply to one of the participating graduate programs by the designated school deadline. Application may require Praxis I test scores.
  • Applications available online. Early decision deadline: mid-October, with transcripts due in early October. Regular decision deadline: early January, with transcripts due in mid-December.

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Additional Information

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

Don't forget to register to take the required graduate admission test(s) early enough so that your scores will be ready by fellowship and graduate-school application deadlines:

Selected searchable fellowships databases>

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