U.S. News has compiled a list of five things international graduate students should know about fellowships.
- Apply Early: Universities have different requirements, systems, and timelines. Get ahead of potential delays and avoid feeling rushed. Additionally, fellowships are awarded early in the application review cycle, so earlier application is advantageous.
- Fellowships are almost always merit-based: This means that “students will need to demonstrate some type of achievement or potential to achieve something great in their chosen field.” Fellowships can be awarded by universities or external entities.
- There are fewer scholarships for international students: EducationUSA advising centers (supported by the U.S. Dept. of State) maintains an updated lists of open fellowships. Beyond The Fulbright Program and governmental awards, a few other funding options exist.
- Fellowships are not well-advertised: Consider the UIUC Fellowship Finder Tool and the IIE database and/or contacting the university’s admissions and international student services offices.
- Prepare for rejections: The decision to accept or reject is often influenced by a specific faculty member in the committee. Try to make connections with faculty prior to applying. Ultimately, there is a lot of competition for a limited number of spots, so do the most you can, but know that you can try again the following year.
> UW Handout on Funding Resources for Graduate School for International Students.
