National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program

Award Details

The purpose of the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is to ensure the quality, vitality, and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce of the United States. GRFP seeks to broaden participation in science and engineering of underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans. The five-year fellowship provides three years of financial support, including an annual stipend of $37,000. Selection criteria is composed of Intellectual Merit (Potential to advance knowledge) and Broader Impacts (Potential to benefit society). 

Eligibility

Applicants must be entering a graduate degree program, have completed no more than one year of graduate study at the time of application, or returning to graduate study after an interruption of two or more years. 

Additionally, applicants must: 

• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
• Intend to enroll or be enrolled in a research-based master’s or doctoral degree program in an eligible Field of Study in STEM or STEM education
• Have never previously accepted a Graduate Research Fellowship
• If previously offered a Graduate Research Fellowship, have declined by the acceptance deadline
• Have never previously applied to GRFP while enrolled in a graduate degree program
• Have never earned a doctoral or terminal degree in any field
• Have never earned a master’s or professional degree in any field, or completed more than one academic year in a graduate degree-granting program, unless (i) returning to graduate study after an interruption of two or more consecutive years immediately preceding the application deadline, and; (ii) not enrolled in a graduate degree program at the application deadline
• Not be a current NSF employee

Applicants are expected to self-certify that they are eligible to receive the Fellowship by taking  Eligibility questionnaire.

Application Timeline

Deadline: mid-October.