How to Get Started
Research scholarships, fellowships, and awards
Search for competitions by reading this directory of scholarships, fellowships, and awards. These are just a few of the hundreds of opportunities available to students.
You may also watch some of the videos below to get an idea of some of the awards that are available. Be sure to turn on the audio:
When you find a scholarship of interest, contact the Office of National Awards and Fellowships to discuss eligibility and the application process.
Before you apply
Be thoughtful and intentional about the process. Competitive scholarships require more than just filling out a form and clicking a button.
Generally, your application should be the result of several weeks or months of reflection, research, and planning, along with advice from the Office of National Awards and Fellowships. Before you jump into an application, take sufficient time to prepare for the process.
Questions to ask yourself:
- Are you ready to take on an application? Fill out this form to request a meeting with the NAF advisor.
- What qualifies you for this opportunity? (coursework, work experience, research experience, time spent abroad, extracurricular activities, skills, etc.)
- What are your professional and personal goals? How will this experience fit in with those goals?
- Do you have the language necessary for the project, if it is required?
- How will you take advantage of this experience when it is complete?
Build your team
Identify people who can advise and support you, including academic advisors, professors, the fellowships advisor (Neva Bryan), the study abroad advisor and others.
Identify individuals who are willing to write letters of recommendation for you.
Create your application
Read the application guidelines carefully!
Understand internal and external deadlines.
Meet with the fellowships advisor to create an action plan to tackle the application.
Gather documents and materials that are required for your application. These may include transcripts, resumes, videos, etc.
Use the information you gathered and the preparation you did to craft your application.
Submit!
Learn from the process
Regardless of the outcome, you will find value in the process of applying for a scholarship.
Reflect on successes and failures.
Think about other opportunities for which this application prepared you.