Nationally Competitive Scholarships

The National Security Education Program (NSEP) David L. Boren Graduate Fellowships support research and study in all countries, except those in Western Europe and Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. NSEP focuses on geographic areas, languages, and fields of study deemed critical to U.S. national security. Boren Fellows design their own programs, usually research-based, but all proposed programs must include formal language study.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Must be planning to study a particular culture, country, or region and its language. Students can study overseas, domestically, or a combination of both.
• Must be enrolled in or applying to a graduate degree program at a college or university in the United States. Boren Fellows must remain enrolled in their graduate programs for the duration of the fellowship.
• Boren applicants must plan to seek employment for at least one year with a federal agency or office involved in national security affairs after graduating.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants must submit a completed online or print application form that includes a program proposal and budget.

Boren Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is January 22, 2025.
• The campus deadline is January 5, 2025.  Those who wish to gain feedback from the campus Boren Committee must submit their applications to Andrea Wolfe, director of nationally competitive scholarships in early January.
• Individuals should begin working on their application by November 1.

Duration and Amount

• Awards are for a minimum of one semester and a maximum of two academic years. Up to 12 months of the fellowship may be spent abroad.
• The maximum award is $25,000.

The National Security Education Program (NSEP) David L. Boren Undergraduate Scholarships support undergraduate study abroad in all countries, except those in Western Europe and Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, in order to help students acquire the international competence needed to communicate effectively across borders, understand other perspectives, and analyze increasingly fluid economic and political realities. NSEP focuses on geographic areas, languages, and fields of study deemed critical to U.S. national security. All proposed programs must include formal language study.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Preference is given to students who want to study abroad for at least two semesters or the equivalent. The only exception is summer programs that are eight weeks or longer, for students in science, technology, engineering, or math.
• Boren applicants must plan to seek employment for at least one year with a federal agency or office involved in national security affairs after graduating.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants must submit a completed online or print application form, two or three references, a one-page study abroad program description OR letters of support for direct enrollment or individually arranged study, and transcripts representing four full semesters (freshmen and sophomores must submit a high school transcript).

Boren Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is January 29, 2025.
• The campus deadline is January 5, 2025. All materials must be submitted by this date to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships and Boren representative.
• Students should begin working on their application by November 1. 

Duration and Amount

• The maximum award for all majors is $25,000, to support a full academic year of study (i.e., two semesters or longer).
• STEM majors only are eligible for a maximum of $8,000, to support summer study.

The Critical Language Scholarship Program is a fully-funded overseas language and cultural immersion program for American undergraduate and graduate students. The program facilitates intensive study of one of 12 languages deemed essential to America's engagement with the world: Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Swahili, Turkish, and Urdu. 

Eligibility

• All majors and fields of study are eligible.
• Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible to apply, including graduating seniors.
• While most languages require no previous study, Korean, Arabic, Persian, and Russian require at least one year of previous study; Chinese and Japanese require at least two years.
• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Applicants must be flexible and adaptable; they must work well in group settings and be highly motivated to meet the challenges of working in an intensive, academically demanding environment for an extended period of time.
• Applicants must intend to use the language in their professional careers.

How to Apply

• The application is completed online. Candidates must submit five short essays (in response to specific prompts), two letters of recommendation, and transcripts. For languages requiring previous study, language evaluations are also required.

CLS Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, along with a timeline and checklist.

Deadline

• The deadline for the 2025 program will be November 19, 2024.
• Students should begin working on their application by October 1.

Duration and Amount

• Each summer institute ranges from 7-10 weeks and is the equivalent of a full year of academic study (i.e. two courses) of the selected language. The dates of the CLS programs vary by language and location; check the appropriate program page for details.
• The CLS program covers travel expenses to and from orientation in Washington, D.C., travel to and from the international program site; applicable visa fees; all instruction; room and board; program-sponsored travel within the host country; and all entrance fees for cultural enhancement activities.
• CLS does not cover the costs for U.S. passport fees, medical exams, travel between the participant's U.S. home and the airport, and personal free-time travel in the host country.

Graduate students in social sciences, hard sciences, or in professional areas such as law, business, and medicine have particular needs for their research and study in Germany. The following opportunities exist to help you master the German language, complete a research project in Germany, or expand your education with a stay at a German university.

Study Scholarship
Provides highly qualified individuals with an opportunity to do independent study in Germany or to complete a full Master's degree program at a German university. Options for study in the arts are also available. Deadline October 31, 2024.

RISE professional
Provides 3 months of funding for graduate students to complete an internship at a German company or non-university research institution. Students must be in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, engineering, or a related field. German language requirements vary depending on placement. Deadline is November 30, 2024. Letters of recommendation due December 15, 2024.

Research Grants
Awarded primarily to highly qualified PhD candidates who are early in their academic/professional careers or to individuals wishing to earn a doctoral degree in Germany. Funding may also be granted to recent PhDs who would like to conduct research. Long-term and short-term options are available. Deadline is October 31, 2024.

University Summer Course Grant
Provides scholarships to attend a broad range of 3- to 4-week summer language courses at German universities which focus mainly on literary, cultural, political and economic aspects of modern and contemporary Germany. Extensive extracurricular programs complement and reinforce the core material. Deadline is December 1, 2024. 

German Studies Research Grant
Offers up to five German Studies Research Grants to highly qualified undergraduate and graduate students who are nominated by their department/ program chairs. The grant may be used for short-term research (one to two months) in either North America or Germany. Deadlines are May 1 and November 1, 2024.

EMGIP—Bundestag Internship
Offers internship opportunities for US and Canadian students in the German parliament, the Bundestag. The internships are two months long in positions matching the student’s interest and experience. Interns will be placed within the Verwaltung, preferably with a Sekretariat working for their preferred Ausschuss. In addition to contributing to the respective offices, interns have the opportunity to study legislative and administrative procedures in the German parliament. **Applications are not currently being accepted**

DAAD Undergraduate Scholarships are open to students in all fields of study for study abroad, internships, or senior thesis research. DAAD offers the following opportunities:

RISE—Research Internships in Science and Engineering
Summertime internships with German doctoral students at universities and research institutions—no German required! Deadline November 30, 2024. Letters of recommendation deadline is December 15, 2024.

University Summer Course Grant
Summer courses at German universities to help build your language skills while studying anything from film to politics to engineering. Deadline December 1, 2024. 

German Studies Research Grant
Funding for research in Germany in all areas of contemporary German Studies. Deadlines May 1 and December 1, 2024.

EMGIP—Bundestag Internship
Two months at the German parliament for students who are fluent in German. **Applications are not currently being accepted**

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers opportunities for recent graduates, graduate students, and developing professionals and artists to conduct career-launching study and research abroad in approximately 140 countries.

Watch a video about Ball State alumna, Lauren Petersen, and her experience in Poland as an English Teaching Assistant.

Watch a video about Ball State alumna (and now faculty member), Cynthia Smith, and her experience in Switzerland as a doctoral student conducting research.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Preference will usually be given to candidates who have not resided in the country to which they are applying for more than six months, except in the case of undergraduate study abroad.
• Applicants must hold a BA degree or the equivalent before beginning the grant period, but cannot yet have earned a PhD or other terminal degree.
• Applicants usually must have sufficient proficiency in the written and spoken language of the host country, especially for projects in the social sciences and the humanities.
• Applicants must be in good health.
• Applicants should have a strong record of academic and professional achievement, demonstrated leadership potential, and community involvement.

How to Apply

• Candidates should carefully review the "About," "Countries," and "Applicants" sections of the Fulbright website before beginning the application process. Competition statistics for English teaching assistantships are available online; full grant stats are forthcoming. 
• Applicants should decide if they want to apply for an academic grant, arts grant, or teaching assistantship (now available in approximately 70 selected countries). Other specific grants are offered on a limited basis.
• Register on the Fulbright website to begin your online application.
• Advice for applicants is provided under "Application tips" in the "Applicants" section of the website.  Additional advice from past Fulbright winners can be found at the Fulbright U.S. Student Applicant Blog.
• Applicants must submit a completed application form, a personal statement, a proposed program of study, three recommendations (letters or forms, depending on the type of application), transcripts, and, if applicable, a foreign language report. Candidates in the creative and performing arts must also submit supplemental materials (slides, photographs, recordings, etc.).
• Current students cannot apply directly to the Fulbright program but must apply through Ball State and undergo an on-campus interview. (Applicants who have already graduated from Ball State may apply through the university or as at-large candidates.)
• Applicants should contact Dom Caristi, Ball State’s representative for Fulbright applications, to begin the application process at least two months before the campus deadline. Applicants are strongly encouraged to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in drafting and revising their personal statement and proposed program of study.

Fulbright Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The campus deadline for submitting the online application is 5 p.m. on September 1, 2024.
• The national deadline is October 8, 2024, but Ball State applicants must electronically submit their applications no later than 5 p.m. on October 8, 2024.
• Students should begin working on their application by April 1.

Duration and Amount

• Fulbright grants typically span 9 or 10 months, usually coinciding with the academic year; the specific time frame varies by country.
• Fulbright grants generally provide round-trip transportation; a living stipend, based on living costs in the host country; and supplemental health and accident insurance.  In some countries, academic and arts grants may also provide tuition, language or orientation courses, and book or research allowances.

The U.S.-U.K. Fulbright Commission offers 3- to 4-week Summer Institutes at universities throughout the United Kingdom for U.S. undergraduates to participate in a high-quality academic program, improve their research and communication skills, and explore the culture and history of the U.K.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be freshmen or sophomores at the time of application (i.e., with at least two years left in a baccalaureate program) and at least 18 years old.
• Only U.S. citizens may apply.
• Applicants should have little to no prior experience abroad.
• Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence, with a GPA of 3.7 or higher, and should be mature, responsible, independent, and open-minded.

How to Apply

• The application is completed and submitted online. A completed application consists of a detailed listing of activities and honors, nine short “self-assessment” responses, a personal statement, a special-topics essay, transcript, and two letters of recommendation.
• Prospective applicants should attend an information session in early December. Contact Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, for information about dates, times, and locations of these sessions.
• Dr. Wolfe will provide applicants with detailed application instructions and a calendar for successfully completing an application.

FULBRIGHT U.K. SUMMER INSTITUTE AWARD GUIDANCE FOR BALL STATE STUDENTS 

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2024 summer institutes is February 1, 2024.
• Completed applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST (Indiana time) on the deadline date.
• Shortlisted candidates are invited to telephone interviews from late March through mid-April.

Duration and Amount

• The length of the program varies from 3-4 weeks, depending on the institute.
• The Summer Institutes will cover most participant costs, including round-trip airfare, tuition and fees at the host university/institution, accommodation and meals, and in some cases a small allowance.

The Gates Cambridge Scholars program enables outstanding graduate students from outside the United Kingdom to study at the University of Cambridge. Scholarships are awarded on the basis of candidates' intellectual ability, leadership capacity, and desire to use their knowledge to contribute to society throughout the world by providing service to their communities and applying their talents and knowledge to improve the lives of others.

Eligibility

• Candidates may come from any country in the world except the United Kingdom.
• Students must be admitted to Cambridge through the university's normal academic procedures.
• Candidates must have a bachelor's degree before beginning study in Cambridge. (Applicants already may have completed a master's degree if entering a PhD program.) Candidates must have exceptional academic achievement (including a high GPA and GRE scores) and scholarly promise. They should demonstrate a strong aptitude for research, analysis, and a creative approach to defining and solving problems.
• Candidates must be well prepared for the course for which they are applying to Cambridge, and their aspirations should match up with what Cambridge has to offer.

How to Apply

• Applicants must apply to the University of Cambridge; extra steps are added for scholarship applicants. The Graduate Application Pack is available online.
• Applicants do not need to be nominated by Ball State; however, they are strongly advised to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in preparing their application materials.
• At least six weeks before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should send an e-mail to Andrea Wolfe if they have questions.
• By the end of December, short-listed candidates will be invited to an interview in early February.

Gates Cambridge Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadline

• The deadline is October 16, 2024.
• Students should begin their application by May 1.

Duration and Amount

• Gates Cambridge Scholarships fund one to four years of study at Cambridge, depending on the student's particular program of study.
• The scholarship covers the full cost of study at Cambridge: all tuition fees, a maintenance allowance, airfare between Cambridge and home, and a discretionary contribution for the support of dependents. 

The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program supports study abroad for undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grants and who intend to study, intern, or student teach in another country for any period of time.

The new Gilman-McCain Scholarship is open to dependent children of active duty military members, in any of the U.S. military branches, at the time of application.  Applicants must receive any type of Title IV aid, rather than specifically a Pell Grant.  Other eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadlines, and award amounts are the same as those for the regular Gilman Scholarship.  No special application is needed.  Eligible students will be considered for both scholarships but may receive only one.  For details, visit the Gilman-McCain page.  

Eligibility

• Applicants must receive a Federal Pell Grant at the time of application or during the term of study abroad. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals.
• Applicants may study, intern, or student teach in any country ranked level 1 or 2 on the U.S. Department of State's Travel Warning list. (Students may apply to a country currently ranked 3 or 4, but the status must change by the time the abroad program begins.)  
• Applicants must be in the process of applying to or already accepted into a study abroad program.
• Programs must be academic credit-bearing (most often, for BSU students, that means a program facilitated through Ball State), but applicants are not required to earn the credit—thus giving the option of reducing tuition costs

How to Apply

• The application is available online and is submitted entirely online. 
• Candidates must submit a completed application form, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a proposed “follow-on” project essay.
• Applicants must work with Ball State’s Study Abroad office and Financial Aid and Scholarships office well in advance of the application deadline to obtain required certifications and expense details.
• Applicants do not need to be nominated by Ball State. However, they are strongly advised to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships. At least six weeks before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with questions.  

Gilman Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, along with a timeline and checklist.

Deadlines

• October 10, 2024, at 11:59pm PT deadline:  for study abroad programs that start between December 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025.
• March 6, 2025, at 11:59pm PT deadline:  for study abroad programs that start between May 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026.  
• Note:  The above timeframes give many applicants the opportunity to apply more than once, so it’s wise to apply during the first applicable cycle.

Duration and Amount

• The Gilman Scholarship is intended to fill funding gaps not met by a Pell Grant and other funding sources, up to $5,000. Award amounts vary but average around $4,000 per recipient.
• Applicants who proposed to study a Critical Need Language while abroad are eligible to receive an additional $3,000. See the Gilman website for a listing of eligible languages.

• During the 2022-2023 competition cycle, more than 3,000 scholarships will be awarded.

The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship provides support to college students who intend to pursue research careers in science, mathematics, and engineering.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be full-time sophomores or juniors--i.e., have 1-2 years remaining of full-time undergraduate study.
• Students must intend to pursue careers in mathematics, the natural sciences, or engineering, with a focus on research.
• Students are expected to pursue advanced degrees. Students must have a GPA of at least a B (3.0) and must be in the upper fourth of their class. (Note: Competitive candidates will likely have a GPA of 3.8 or above.)
• A candidate must be a U.S. citizen, a resident alien, or U.S. national. Students cannot apply directly but must be nominated by the university's faculty representative.

How to Apply

• The application is available online. Candidates must submit a completed Nominee Information Form, an essay about a particular issue or problem in their field of study, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts (both high school and college).
• Each candidate must be reviewed by an on-campus committee and be officially nominated by Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships and faculty representative for Goldwater Scholarships.
• Each candidate must work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in obtaining the university's nomination. At least six weeks before the campus deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with questions.

Goldwater Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is January 31, 2025.
• The campus deadline is November 25, 2024. All materials must be submitted by this date to Andrea Wolfe.
• Students should begin working on their application by October 8.

Duration and Amount

• Sophomore-level recipients are eligible for a maximum of two years of scholarship support. Junior-level recipients are eligible for a maximum of one year of scholarship support.
• Each scholarship covers eligible expenses for tuition, fees, books, and room and board, up to a maximum of $7,500 annually.

The Knight-Hennessy Scholars program selects up to 100 high-achieving students annually to receive full funding to pursue a graduate education, in any discipline, at Stanford University.

Eligibility

• Applicants from all over the world are encouraged to apply.
• Applicants must apply during their final year of study for their first/bachelor's degree or within four years of earning their first/bachelor’s degree.
• While there is no minimum requirement for scores or grades, applicants are expected to meet the expectations of their desired degree program.

How to Apply

• Applicants should thoroughly read the Knight-Hennessy Scholars website for details about the program.
• Applicants should work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to receive assistance in preparing a competitive application.
• At least two months before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should send an e-mail to Andrea Wolfe if they have questions.
• Candidates must complete not only the Knight-Hennessy Scholars application, but also the entire application process for their graduate degree program — including any standardized test that their discipline requires (GMAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, etc.).
• Applications must be completed online, along with an unofficial transcript, standardized test scores, a one-page résumé/C.V., two recommendation letters, two personal essays, two short-answer responses, and a short video story.
• Finalists will be invited to visit Stanford, expenses paid, for Immersion Weekend in mid-January where they will learn more about their particular degree program, the details of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program, and more.

Deadline

• Applications must be submitted online by October 9, 2024 at 1:00pm PT. 
• Candidates must also meet the deadlines for the Stanford graduate degree programs that they are pursuing.

Duration and Amount

• Knight-Hennessy Scholars receive full tuition and a generous living stipend for up to three years.
• If the degree program exceeds this length (such as an MD or PhD program), the candidate’s home department will fund the remainder of the education.

James Madison Graduate Fellowships are awarded to seniors or recent graduates who intend to pursue their master's degrees and become outstanding teachers of the American constitution in secondary schools.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals.
• Applicants must be in their senior year of college or be recent college graduates. (Senior fellowships are available to individuals who are already employed as teachers. See the James Madison website for more information.)
• Candidates must pursue one of the following degrees:
  • Master of arts (MA) in American history or political science
  • Master of arts in teaching (MAT) with a concentration in either American constitutional history or American government, political institutions, and political theory
  • Master of education (MEd) or the master of arts or master of science in education with a concentration in American history or American government, political institutions, and political theory
• After earning a master's degree, each James Madison Fellow must teach American history, American government, or social studies in grades 7-12 for no less than one year for each full academic year of study under the fellowship.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Candidates must submit a completed application form, an essay explaining why the study of the constitution is an essential part of secondary school education, two or three letters of evaluation, and transcripts.
• Applicants do not need to be nominated by Ball State. However, they are strongly advised to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in preparing their application materials. At least six weeks before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe if they have questions.

Madison Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadline

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is March 9, 2025 at 3:59am ET. All materials must be received, not postmarked, by that date.
• Students should begin working on their application by January 15.

Duration and Amount

• James Madison Fellows are supported for the two years of their master's degree programs.
• The maximum amount of each award is $24,000 (not exceeding $12,000 per academic year) to cover the actual costs of tuition, required fees, books, and room and board.

Marshall Scholarships finance young Americans of high ability to study for a degree in the United Kingdom. Marshall Scholars, who are the potential leaders, opinion formers, and decision makers in their own country, may thereby gain an understanding and appreciation of British values and the British way of life.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Seniors or recent graduates may apply. Candidates must have graduated from their undergraduate institution after April 2022.
• Applicants must have a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.7.
• Persons already studying for or holding a British degree or degree-equivalent qualification are not eligible to apply.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Candidates must submit a completed application form, three or four essays (a personal statement, description of the proposed academic program, and reasons for wishing to live and study in the UK; one-year applicants must submit a fourth essay describing their post-scholarships plans), and four letters of recommendation.
• Applications must be endorsed by the Ball State president, provost, or academic dean (or, for recent graduates, possibly their employer).
• Each candidate must work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in obtaining the university's endorsement. At least six weeks before the campus deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with any questions.
• Semifinalists for the Chicago region are notified in late October or early November and interviewed several days later.

Marshall Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is September 24, 2024 at 5:00pm.
• The campus deadline is September 4, 2024. All materials must be submitted by this date to Andrea Wolfe in the Honors College.
• Students should begin working on their application by May 1.

Duration and Amount

• As a rule, scholarships are held for two years, but they may be extended through a third academic year. A limited number of one-year scholarships are offered and may not be extended beyond twelve months.
• Marshall Scholarships cover the annual cost of university fees and cost-of-living expenses, books, research and daily travel expenses, thesis expenses, and airfare to and from the United States, and, where applicable, a contribution toward the support of a dependent spouse.

The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships offer graduate fellowships in the mathematical, physical, biological, engineering, and behavioral and social sciences (including the history of science and the philosophy of science) and in research-based PhD programs in science education. Specialized components are awards for Women in Engineering (WENG) and Women in Computer and Information Science (WICS).

Eligibility

• Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent resident aliens.
• Applicants must intend to pursue research-based master's or doctoral degrees in fields of science, mathematics, and engineering that are supported by the NSF.
• Applicants pursuing a research-based PhD in science education also may be eligible.
• Applicants must have a bachelor's degree prior to fall 2023.
• In general, applicants should be college seniors, recent graduates about to enter their first year of graduate school, or first- or second-year graduate students who have completed no more than 12 months of graduate study.  Exception:  Application who have already completed a master’s or professional degree or have completed more than one academic year in a graduate degree-granting program are eligible if they are returning to graduate school after an interruption of two or more consecutive years immediately preceding the application deadline and are not enrolled in a graduate degree program at the application deadline.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Candidates must submit the completed application form electronically, transcripts, official GPA record to date, at least three references, a proposed plan of research, and a description of previous research experience.
• Applicants do not need to be nominated by Ball State. However, they are strongly advised to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in preparing their application materials. At least two months before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail
  Andrea Wolfe with any questions.

NSF Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

The deadlines for the 2024 competition vary by discipline and are as follows:

• October 16, 2024: Life Sciences
• October 18, 2024: Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Materials Research, Psychology, Social Sciences, STEM Education and Learning
• October 17, 2024: Engineering
• October 15, 2024: Chemistry, Geosciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physics and Astronomy
• October 11, 2024: All reference letters due by 5:00pm ET.
  
• Students should begin working on their applications by May 1.

Duration and Amount

• NSF Graduate Fellowships offer three years of support.
• Each fellowship provides a stipend of $37,000 for a 12-month tenure (prorated monthly for lesser periods) and an annual cost-of-education allowance of $16,000, paid to the fellow's institution in lieu of tuition and fees.

Rhodes Scholarships fund two years of post-baccalaureate study at Oxford University for students of high academic achievement, integrity of character, a spirit of unselfishness, respect for others, potential for leadership, and physical vigor.

Watch a video about the Rhodes Scholarship.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be citizens of the United States.
• By October 1, 2024, applicants must be 18-23 years of age or (for older candidates who completed their first undergraduate degree later than usual) applicants must be under the age of 27 on October 1, 2024 AND must also have completed their first undergraduate degree on or after October 1, 2023.
• Applicants must be sufficiently advanced academically to assure completion of a bachelor's degree
  by July 2025.
• Candidates should be able to demonstrate:
  • Intellectual and academic achievement
  • Energy to use one's talents to the fullest, which may be shown by participation in organized sports or by other ways in which physical vigor will allow candidates to make a difference in their world
  • Truth, courage, devotion to duty, sympathy for, and protection of the weak, kindliness, unselfishness, and fellowship
  • Integrity of character, ability to lead, and interest in and respect for others

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants who are undergraduates or who have not yet reached their second year of graduate school must receive institutional endorsement from Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in obtaining the university's endorsement. (Applicants in their second or later year of graduate study should seek endorsement from their graduate institution).
• Five to eight referees must send their recommendations directly to the selection committee.
• Applicants must submit the completed application form, college transcripts, list of activities and honors, personal statement, photocopied proof of age and citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or other proof), and passport-size photograph.
• Applicants are notified in early November if they have been invited for an interview by the district committee, which takes place in mid-November. Each district committee selects up to two Rhodes Scholars.

Rhodes Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• Applications for the 2024 competition must be submitted online by October 2, 2024.
• The campus deadline is September 2, 2024. All materials must be submitted by this date to Andrea Wolfe in the Honors College.
• Students should begin working on their applications by May 1.

Duration and Amount

• Rhodes Scholars are elected for two years of study at the University of Oxford, with the possibility of renewal for a third year.
• A Rhodes Scholarship covers the full cost of study at Oxford: tuition, all related fees (such as matriculation, laboratory fees, and certain other set charges), a maintenance stipend, and travel expenses to and from Oxford. It may also cover additional grants for research purposes or study-related travel.

The Schwarzman Scholars Program enables future innovators, thinkers, and leaders from all over the world to complete a one-year master’s degree in global affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing. Scholars may focus on public policy, economics and business, or international studies. All classes are taught in English.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be between ages 18 and 28 on August 1 of their enrollment year.
• There are no citizenship or nationality requirements, but all applicants should have a strong command of English, the language of instruction.
• All fields of study are welcome, but all applicants must explain how the Schwarzman program is integral to developing their leadership potential for their careers.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence.

How to Apply

• Applicants should thoroughly read the Schwarzman Scholars website for details about the program.
• Applicants should work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to receive assistance in preparing a competitive application.
• At least two months before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should send an e-mail to Andrea Wolfe if they have questions.
• Short-listed candidates will be invited to an interview in early November.
• Applicants must submit the completed application online, along with an academic transcript, three electronic letters of recommendation, a short video, three essays (personal statement, leadership essay, and current affairs essay), a current resume or CV, and the institutional assessment form.

Deadline

• All application materials, including supporting documents, references, and Institutional Assessment Form, are due by September 12, 2024 at 3:00pm ET.
• Students should begin working on their applications by May 1.

Duration and Amount

• All costs for semi-finalist interviews, including travel and meals, will be covered by the program.
• The scholarship covers the full cost of study at Tsinghua University for one year: tuition, fees, room and board, travel to and from Beijing, in-country study tours, required course books and supplies, a Lenovo laptop and smartphone, health insurance, and a modest personal stipend.

Recognizing the contributions of new Americans, the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship Program assists first- and second-generation Americans who pursue graduate degrees in any professional field or academic discipline with the ultimate goal of helping them become leaders in their chosen fields.

Eligibility

• An applicant must be a resident alien (i.e., hold a Green Card), a naturalized U.S. citizen, the child of two parents who are both naturalized citizens, or any immigrant who has graduated from both high school and college in the US.
• While candidates are expected to retain loyalty and a sense of commitment to their country of origin, they should regard the United States as their principal residence and focus of national identity.
• Applicants must either have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate study. Students in their first or second year of graduate study are eligible.
• Applicants may intend to pursue graduate degrees in any professional field (e.g., engineering, medicine, law, social work) or scholarly discipline in the arts (including the fine and performing arts), humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Graduate study must be at an accredited graduate program in the U.S.
• Applicants must not be older than 30 years of age as of the application deadline.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants must submit a completed application form, two essays on specified topics, a resumé, three recommendation letters (one from a faculty member familiar with the applicant's academic work and the other from someone familiar with the applicant's performance in a work setting, whether paid or volunteer), an Institutional Status Form, transcripts, documentation that the applicant is a new American, and appropriate graduate aptitude test scores (e.g., GMAT, MCAT, GRE, LSAT).
• Applicants do not need to be nominated by Ball State; however, they are strongly advised to work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, in preparing their application materials. At least six weeks before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with any questions.
• 77 finalists are invited to January interviews in New York or Los Angeles.

Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• Applications must be submitted via the online applications system or postmarked by October 31, 2024 at 2:00pm ET.
• Scores from any needed graduate aptitude tests must be taken and submitted by the second week of December 2024.
• Students should begin working on their applications by September 1.

Duration and Amount

• Soros Fellowships fund up to two years of graduate study.
• Each year the fellow receives a stipend of $25,000 per year and one-half the tuition cost of the graduate program, up to $20,000 per year.

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation awards merit-based federal grants to undergraduate juniors who will attend graduate or professional school in preparation for careers in government, the nonprofit sector, or elsewhere in public service.

Eligibility

• Applicants must be in the upper quarter of their junior class at an accredited U.S. college or university.
• Candidates must be U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals.
• Candidates should intend to enter public service after completing their graduate studies. ("Public service" is defined as employment in government at any level, uniformed services, public-interest organizations, nongovernmental research and/or educational organizations, public and private schools, and public service-oriented nonprofit organizations, such as those whose primary purposes are to help needy or disadvantaged people or to protect the environment.)
• Candidates should have:
  • Extensive records of public and community service
  • Strong commitment to careers in government or elsewhere in public service
  • Outstanding leadership potential and communication skills

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants must submit a completed application form (which includes several mini-essays and a detailed plan for study), a policy proposal (in response to a problem or issue in the candidate's proposed area of public service), three letters of recommendation and transcripts.
• Applications must be nominated by Ball State's Truman faculty representative, Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships. Candidates may not apply directly to the Truman Scholarship Foundation.
• Each candidate must work with Andrea Wolfe in obtaining the university's nomination. At least six weeks before the campus deadline—preferably earlier—students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with any questions.
• Finalists will be invited for an interview in early March.

Truman Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadlines

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is February 4, 2025. All materials must be received by the national deadline.
• The campus deadline is January 3, 2025.  All materials must be submitted by this date to Andrea Wolfe in the Honors College.
• Students should begin working on their application by October 15.

Duration and Amount

• Truman Scholarships provide support for two years of graduate study.
• Scholars are eligible to receive support up to $30,000 ($15,000 per year).

The Morris K. and Stewart L. Udall Foundation awards 50 undergraduate scholarships to sophomores and juniors preparing for careers related to the environment, Native American health care, or tribal public policy.

Eligibility

• Candidates must be sophomores or juniors at an accredited institution. ("Sophomore" is defined as a student who plans two more years of full-time undergraduate study beginning the next academic year. A "junior" has one more year.)
• Students should have a GPA of at least 3.0.
• Candidates must study the environment and related fields, Native American health care, or tribal public policy. Candidates studying the latter two fields must be Native American or Alaska Native.
• A candidate must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident alien, or U.S. national.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Applicants must submit official transcripts, three letters of recommendation, a Nominee Information Form (which includes several mini-essays), and an essay discussing a significant public speech, legislative act, or public policy statement by Morris or Stewart Udall and its impact on the nominee's field of interest and career goals.
• Applicants must agree to attend a mandatory Scholar Orientation weekend in August, if awarded a scholarship.
• Applicants may not apply directly to the Udall Scholarship Foundation but must apply through Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships. Contact her at least six weeks before the campus deadline—preferably earlier. Students should e-mail Andrea Wolfe with any questions.

Udall Application Guidance for Ball State Students

• Write to Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to request an application packet specifically for Ball State students. It contains invaluable guidance on creating the best application possible, a timeline and checklist, and advice on getting strong letters of recommendation.

Deadline

• The deadline for the 2025 competition is March 5, 2025, but BSU students must submit their applications by February 29. All materials must be received by the national deadline.
• The campus deadline for submission of all materials is February 5, 2025.
• Students should begin working on their application by November 30.

Duration and Amount

• Scholarship recipients are eligible for one year of support per application year.
• Each scholar receives up to $7,000, or the cost of tuition, fees, books, and room and board, whichever is less.

The Yenching Academy Scholarship offers outstanding graduates from all over the globe the opportunity to attend the Yenching Academy of Peking University through an interdisciplinary master’s program in China Studies. 

Yenching Scholars select one of these concentrations:

• Politics and international relations
• Philosophy and religion
• Literature and culture
• Law and society
• History and archaeology
• Economics and management

Watch a video about the kind of experience you could have as a Yenching Scholar!

Eligibility

• Seniors or recent graduates may apply. Strong preference is given to applicants younger than 26.
• Applicants should have outstanding records of accomplishment in academics, extracurricular achievement, community engagement, and social responsibility.
• Chinese language skills are not required, as all instruction is in English.

How to Apply

• The application is available online.
• Candidates must submit a completed online application form, a personal statement of 750 words or less, a Statement of Research Interest of 1500 words or less, a CV, official transcript(s), diploma(s) or certificate(s) of enrollment, and two letters of recommendation.
• International students must submit an International English proficiency test score (at least IELTS 7/TOEFL 100/Cambridge 180/CEFR C1).
• Applicants should work with Andrea Wolfe, interim director of nationally competitive scholarships, to receive assistance in preparing a competitive application.
• At least two months before the deadline—preferably earlier—students should send an e-mail to Andrea Wolfe if they have questions.

Deadline

• Applications must be submitted by December 1, 2024.

Duration and Amount

• The program is one or two years long. Recipients are initially enrolled at the Yenching Academy for 12 months as they complete their coursework requirement. International students may choose to apply for a renewal of the scholarship to stay in Beijing a second year to complete the thesis, and possibly do an internship or volunteer in the community. Or they may choose to return to their home country to complete the thesis, and then defend it via Skype.
• Yenching Academy Scholars receive full tuition, living costs, a travel stipend for one round-trip journey between their base city and Beijing, and a single dorm room on Peking University's campus for the duration of their stay.
• Research grants are provided for qualifying projects.