NATIONALLY COMPETITIVE SCHOLARSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS, AND GRANTS

Background:  The Marshall Scholarships were instituted in 1953 by the British government to thank the United States for its involvement in the Marshall Plan and to bring intellectually distinguished young Americans who will be the future leaders of this nation, to Great Britain to imbue them with an understanding and appreciation of British social and academic values.
The Scholarship:  Forty Americans, selected through regional interviews by an advisory council, are fully funded (living allowance, tuition, books, air transportation, travel) for a two-year period at any university in the United Kingdom. By the time candidates begin studying, they must hold a bachelor’s degree from a college in the United States, be under 26 years old, and have attained a grade-point average after the freshman year of not less than 3.7.
Application:  The application consists of a two-page information sheet; a short statement (no more than 1000 words) about “academic interests and other pursuits;” a 500-word (maximum) statement about the academic program chosen, giving the reasons for undertaking the course of study and for preferring the university chosen; an official transcript; and four letters of recommendation plus a university endorsement. Students must identify two United Kingdom universities (a preferred and a second choice) where they wish to study.
Who Should Apply:  The best candidates are students with clearly defined academic and vocational interests plus a strong record of leadership and activities. They should have researched British universities carefully and have a good reason for pursuing postgraduate education in the United Kingdom. The Marshall Commission seeks people who will make a contribution to the life of a British university and will be future leaders.
References:  Four (all academic), plus an endorsement of candidacy from Furman.
For More Information: Visit www.acu.ac.uk/marshall.

Carnegie Endowment Junior Fellows Program

Assignments:  Junior Fellows provide research assistance to Associates working on Carnegie Endowment projects such as non-proliferation, democracy building, international economics, China-related issues, and Russian and Eurasian affairs. Junior Fellows have the opportunity to conduct research for books, co-author journal articles and policy papers, participate in meetings with high-level officials, contribute to congressional testimony, and organize briefings attended by scholars, activists, journalists, and government officials.
Who Should Apply:  Applicants must be nominated by an official of their university who has been designated for this purpose.  Applications are accepted only from graduating college seniors or individuals who have graduated within the past academic year. No one will be considered who has stated graduate studies. Applicants should have completed a significant amount of course work in international affairs, political science, economics, history or Russian studies. The selection process for the Junior Fellow Program is very competitive. Accordingly, applicants should be of high academic quality.
Application Process:  There is no standard application form.  Typically, applicants are asked to answer several essay questions.
Duration:  Junior Fellows are hired for a period of approximately one year.
For More Information:Visit www.ceip.org.

Compton Mentor Fellowships

Background:  The Compton Foundation seeks to foster human and ecological security.  The Foundation supports responsible stewardship that respects the rights of future generations to a balanced and healthy ecology, both personal and global, allowing for the full richness of human experience.  To realize this vision, the Foundation awards most of its grants in the areas of Peace & Security, Environment & Sustainability, and Population & Reproductive Health, with a special emphasis on projects that explore the interconnections between these categories.
The Scholarship:  The Mentor Fellowship Program is the Foundation’s newest fellowship program.  Started in 2002, the program‘s purpose is to promote the creativity, commitment, and service of five graduating seniors each year, who are nominated by selected colleges and universities in the United States, and chosen by an independent committee.  The Mentor Fellowship Program is based on the belief that life-changing experiences can occur when formal learning is transformed by action.  Each Mentor Fellow is awarded a one-year, $35,000 fellowship. The stipend is used to implement a self-directed project that focuses on real-world situations.  At the core of the fellowship is the partnership between a fellow and a mentor, who provides guidance, encouragement, and impetus for continued learning and service.
Application:  The application consists of a project proposal, a projected budget for the project, short-essay questions, and mentor information.
References:  Two letters of recommendation are required.
Who Should Apply:  Graduating seniors with a strong academic record and interest in pursuing a project related to a Compton-related issue.  Documented leadership skills, community service, and initiative are required.
For More Information: Visit  http://www.comptonfoundation.org.

Fulbright Scholarship

Background:  The US Congress created the Fulbright program in 1946 to foster international understanding through educational exchanges. It was named in honor of Senator J.W. Fulbright and is funded by the U.S. government. The scholarship competition is coordinated by the Institute of International Education (IIE).
The Scholarship:  The Fulbright program funds a number of different opportunities, including exchange of scholars, travel grants, and dissertation research. However, most scholarships are for graduating seniors or recent graduates who propose to spend a year abroad studying or researching at a foreign university. The two primary programs are Fulbright full grants, which cover the cost of round-trip transportation, tuition, maintenance, and insurance; and the Fulbright Teaching Assistant program, which selects students who wish to teach English in Belgium, France, Germany, Hungry, Korea, and Taiwan. Note: Students applying for full grants must have sufficient proficiency in the written and spoken language of the host country to communicate with the people and carry out the proposed study.
Application:  The application form consists of 11 parts, including personal information, a statement of the study proposal, a short personal essay, foreign language evaluation, three references, transcript, and an evaluation by the Graduate Awards Committee. Students must have an “adequate background” (a major) in the subject they wish to pursue.
Who Should Apply:  Students with strong academic records (3.7 after the freshman year) who have excellent command of a foreign language and whose project proposal is appropriate to the country proposed and can be completed in a year. Students should realize that grants to some countries are far more difficult to obtain than others, since the number of awards and the intensity of the competition vary substantially. (Fulbright grants for study in the United Kingdom are especially competitive.)
References: Three, all from professors in the major.
The Fulbright Process:  By mid-January candidates are informed if they have been recommended for a grant. Being recommended, however, does not mean that a student will be funded. Successful candidates are usually informed in April if funding has been approved. About half of the recommended applications are actually funded, although the number varies by country. There is no interview for the Fulbright (although telephone interviews are used for England.)
For More Information:  www.iie.org/fulbright  An 80-page listing (by country) of scholarship opportunities is published by the USIA. It is an essential country-by-country guide to Fulbright grants. It is available on the Fulbright website.

Goldwater Scholarship

Background:  The Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship was established by Congress in 1986 to honor Senator Goldwater and to endow a recognition program to foster excellence in science and mathematics.
The Scholarships:  About 300 grants of up to $7,500 to sophomores (for two years) or juniors (for one year) who are planning careers in science or mathematics and who plan to earn a Ph.D. Every American university may nominate up to four candidates.
Application: Biographical information, including activities, employment, research experience, professional aspirations, personal background, and an essay about a significant problem or issue in your field of study. Both high school and college transcripts are required.
Who Should Apply:  The Goldwater Scholarship is highly competitive. Almost all Furman winners have had grade-point averages of about 3.90; have had strong, long-term science-connected extracurricular activities and research experience; and plan to earn a Ph.D.
References:  Three recommendations are required, at least two of which must be from faculty members in the student’s major. Students who have done collaborative research with a faculty member must have a recommendation from that person.
For More Information: Visit www.act.org/goldwater.

Luce Scholarships

Background:  Established in 1974 by Henry Luce, who was born in China and was co-founder of Time Incorporated, the scholarship was set up to increase understanding among future American leaders and to broaden their professional perceptions by giving them a year’s experience working in Asia.
The Scholarships: The Luce is technically not a scholarship at all; it is a year-long internship in an Asian country selected by the Luce Foundation for which students are paid a salary at about the level of a senior faculty member in that country. All travel costs are covered. Three week-long conferences for Luce Scholars are held during the Luce year. Furman is among the 60 American universities that may nominate two students or alumni (who must be 29 years old or younger at the beginning of the Luce year) for the cultural experience. It is designed for young leaders who have no previous experience of Asia and very limited course work or travel in Asia. Asian Studies majors are ineligible.
Application:  A biographical information form listing activities, awards, foreign travel, employment, and languages other than English; a transcript and photograph; and a comprehensive essay outlining career interests and plans for the future.
Who Should Apply:  Students and young alumni with exceptionally high academic achievement, evidence of outstanding leadership, mature and clearly defined career interest in a specific field, and evidence of potential for professional accomplishment. Successful candidates are creative, self-confident, enthusiastic, sensitive, and mature.
References:  Four, representing a range of accomplishment.
Luce Interviews:  The Luce process is highly rigorous. Approximately 120 candidates for the Luce are interviewed by foundation staff members. On the basis of their review, 45 finalists are named and are invited to three regional centers for selection committee interviews. Each regional committee names 6 winners, who are informed almost immediately following the interview.

Madison Fellowship

Background:  Congress created the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation in 1986 to encourage future and current secondary school teachers of American history and government.
The Scholarships:  Up to $24,000 to support up to two years of full-time study for prospective teachers (“junior fellows”) who wish to earn the master’s degree in history or political science or a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). Madison Fellowships are also available for current teachers (“senior fellows”) for up to five years of part-time study for the same degrees. One junior and one senior fellow are appointed in each state. Fellows must take at least 12 semester hours in topics related to the United States Constitution.
Application:  The application consists of an information form about personal background and activities; brief essays explaining why the applicant wants to teach American history or politics; significant activities that have inspired the given career decision; the proposed course of graduate study, recent reading; and an essay on the importance of the U.S. Constitution.
Who Should Apply:  History and political science majors with good grades (3.5 in the major) who are earning teacher certification in social studies and who wish to earn a master’s degree (the Madison does not fund doctoral studies) before beginning their teaching career.
References:  Two from faculty members or administrators who can discuss the applicant’s potential for and commitment to a career teaching American history or government, potential for graduate study, and depth of perception, and a third recommendation from someone outside the university who can evaluate the character and public service of the candidate.
For More Information:Visit www.jamesmadison.com.

Mitchell Scholarship

Background:  The George J. Mitchell Scholarship was established in 1998 to broaden the interests of students in Ireland. Scholars are eligible to attend institutions of higher learning in Ireland, including the seven universities in the Republic of Ireland and the two universities in Northern Ireland, for one academic year of postgraduate study.
The Scholarships:  Scholars receive tuition, room, a stipend of $11,000, and travel to and from Ireland and Northern Ireland. Usit Now, Ireland’s leading travel service for students, contributes a generous travel stipend to each Mitchell Scholar. It is envisaged that the Mitchell Scholars will use the stipend not only to explore Ireland but also to develop an understanding of the relationship between Ireland and Britain, as well as Ireland’s relationship with Europe.
Application:  Applications are due in October. Election to a Mitchell Scholarship is formally confirmed by the Mitchell Scholarship selection committee after the Scholar-elect has been accepted by an Irish university.  Deferment of the Scholarship is not allowed.
Who Should Apply:  Prospective Mitchell Scholars must have a demonstrated record of intellectual distinction, leadership, and extracurricular activity, as well as personal characteristics of honesty, integrity, fairness, and unselfish service to others that indicate a potential for future leadership and contributions to society. There are no restrictions as to academic field of study.
For more information: Visit the Mitchell website at www.us-irelandalliance.org for more details.

National Security Educational Program Scholarship

Background:  The National Security Educational Program (NSEP) was established by Congress in 1991 to provide funds for international study and thus equip young Americans with an understanding of less commonly taught languages, create a base of future international leaders who will help this country make sound decisions on global problems, and enhance institutional capacity in international studies.
The Scholarships:  Approximately $8,000 for a semester (term) or $16,000 for a year, depending on the student’s financial need as certified by the Financial Aid Office. Although this scholarship is based on merit, need determines the amount of support. It is available to students in all classes and all majors.
Application:  The lengthy application asks students to select a study abroad option in a nonwestern European country. Students must lay out a program of language study (not in French or German; Spanish at an advanced level is acceptable for those interested in Latin America) and program course work related to important global issues affecting national security.  They must also show a link between their proposed study and their career goals. There is a two-part statement of purpose. For freshmen and sophomores, a summer or semester-long program is acceptable; for juniors and seniors, academic year programs are required. Transcripts for at least two years of academic work are required; freshmen and sophomores must submit high school transcripts.
Who Should Apply:  This scholarship program is open to all classes, freshmen through seniors, and also covers graduate study. Good grades (3.5 gpa), language facility, and a defined interest in international issues are important. Note: Students may apply for support to study in China or Japan through Furman’s programs. Students in all majors, especially business and science, are encouraged to apply.
References:  Minimum of two, maximum of three, with at least two from faculty members.
For More Information: Visit www.ndu.edu/nsep.

National Science Foundation Graduate Fellowships

Background:  The National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks to insure the strength, vitality, and diversity of American scientists by awarding about 1,000 graduate and minority fellowships each year. Fellowships are restricted to American citizens and are awarded to students pursuing research-based degrees in science (including social science), mathematics, and engineering.
The Fellowships: A yearly stipend plus tuition and fees for three years for study at institutions both in the United States and throughout the world.
The Application:  The application consists of an information form, a concise statement of educational objectives as they relate to long-range professional goals, the name of the university the candidate wishes to attend, research experience, a two-page plan of study or research, a transcript, and GRE scores.
Who Should Apply:  Students with high grades (3.8) and excellent GRE scores who plan to earn a Ph.D. in the sciences, mathematics, or engineering. GREs must be taken before December; high scores (at least 90th percentile) in the analytical and quantitative sections of the general test and on the subject test in the major are essential for success.
References:  Four, all from faculty in the major.
For More Information: Visit www.nsf.gov/funding/pgm_summ.jsp?pims_id=6201.

Rhodes Scholarships

Background:  Begun in 1905 through a bequest from Cecil Rhodes, an Oxford graduate and South African entrepreneur, the Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest, most prestigious and best known of all postgraduate scholarships.
The Scholarships:  Two years of study at Oxford University with expenses including airfare, tuition, books, room and board, and spending money covered. Thirty-two scholarships are awarded through regional competitions in the United States.
Application: Multiple tcopies of a signed application form with photographs attached, transcript, list of activities, copy of birth certificate, and an essay detailing the candidate’s background, interests, and goals.
Who Should Apply:  Students with exceptional academic achievement (3.75 or above), documented leadership ability, compassion for the disadvantaged, broad and deep cultural interests, and physical vigor (you need not be an athlete per se) who wish to pursue a second degree should consider applying for a Rhodes Scholarship.
Recommendations:  The Rhodes Scholarship requires at least five and no more than eight letters of recommendation. At least three should be from faculty members in the student’s major; others should document leadership, concern for others, and cultural interests. A letter of endorsement by the university is required.
For More Information:  Visit www.rhodesscholar.org.

Rotary Scholarships

Background:  Rotary International has a long history of supporting youth exchange programs and funding year-long scholarships which support international understanding by sending high school and college students to study in foreign countries. As “Academic Ambassadors,” college students who win Rotary International Scholarships articulate the goals of the program to Rotary Clubs in the country where they are studying.
The Scholarships: Rotary districts (there are two in South Carolina) provide about $25,000 to one, two or three students annually for a year of foreign study that may, but does not have to, lead to a degree. Students usually apply for the scholarship in the spring of their junior year because the scholarship does not begin until at least 18 months later, but undergraduates (freshmen and sophomores) as well as seniors or recent graduates are also eligible.
Application:  The lengthy application consists of a brief autobiography, statement of purpose, list of activities, transcript, and language evaluation. Students applying to study in a non-English speaking country must translate their entire application into the language of that country. (A part of the Rotary Scholarship interview will be held in the appropriate foreign language.) Candidates for the Rotary International Scholarship must identify five universities, no more than two in the same country, where they would like to study; they should be knowledgeable about their choices.
Who Should Apply:  Students with good grades (3.6+) and (for non-English speaking countries) excellent language skills should consider applying for a Rotary Scholarship. Because Rotary International seeks “ambassadors,” public speaking experience and an outgoing personality are helpful. Students whose parents or grandparents are Rotarians are not eligible.
References:  Three recommendations on forms provided by Rotary.
The Rotary Process:  Rotary districts have different scholarship application deadlines, ranging from April (Greenville) to mid-July. Students can apply in both the Greenville district and at home if they do not live in Upstate South Carolina. Clubs have varying procedures; some require interviews before endorsement, while others do not.
For More Information: Visit www.rotary.org.

Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

Purpose:  This program is established in recognition of the contributions new Americans have made to American life and in gratitude for the opportunities the United States has afforded the donors and their family. The fellowships provide opportunities for continuing generations of able and accomplished new Americans to achieve leadership in their chosen fields. A fellow may pursue a graduate degree in any professional field or scholarly discipline in the arts (including fine arts and performing arts), humanities, social sciences, and sciences at any accredited graduate program in the United States.
Eligibility:  A “New American” is an individual who has applied for naturalization, has been naturalized as a U.S. citizen, or is the child of two parents who are both naturalized citizens. “Applied for naturalization” includes possession of an INS green card and more than one year of IRS filings. Those eligible are New Americans between the ages of 20 and 28 who are seniors in college, recent recipients of a bachelor’s degree, or graduate students.
The Scholarship:  Each fellowship carries a personal stipend and a tuition grant of one-half of the tuition cost of the graduate program attended by the Fellow (paid directly to the institution). The award is for up to two years, with the possibility of a third year. Thirty fellowships are offered each year.
Selection Criteria:  Candidates must demonstrate the relevance of graduate education to their long-term career goals and its potential in enhancing their contributions to society. Fellowships are not awarded solely on the basis of academic record. A successful candidate will give evidence of satisfying at least two of the following three criteria: (1) Creativity, originality and initiative, demonstrated in any area; (2) Commitment to and capacity for accomplishment, demonstrated through activity that has required drive and sustained effort; and (3) Commitment to the values expressed in the Bill of Rights and the United States Constitution.
Application:  Includes an information form, two essays on specified topics, and documentation of the applicant’s “new American” status
References:  Two letters of recommendation and a letter of endorsement.
For additional information: Visit www.pdsoros.org for more details.

Truman Scholarships

Background: The United States Congress established the Harry S. Truman Scholarship competition in 1975 to honor the nation’s 33rd president. The scholarship provides $3,000 for the senior year and $27,000 for students preparing for careers in government or public service.
The Scholarships: About 70 scholarships are awarded annually to college juniors; the competition is based on state of home residence, and at least one scholarship is awarded to each state and to the American territories. A few at-large scholarships are awarded. Although the scholarship is primarily for graduate studies leading to a career in public service (interpreted broadly), $3,000 is provided for the senior year in college.
Application: The application consists of a transcript (students must be in the upper quarter of their college classes, but a 3.6 or above GPA is expected), information about activities, a series of paragraph-long responses about leadership experiences and career goals, an essay on an issue of public policy, and three letters of recommendation, plus the university’s letter of endorsement. A good application generally takes 20 to 40 hours to prepare and review.
Who Should Apply: Students (U.S. citizens) with excellent grades, documented leadership, public service activities (especially working on campaigns or for someone in politics), and a record of community service who wish to earn a degree that will lead to a career in the public or private nonprofit sector should consider applying for a Truman Scholarship. The foundation is looking for “change agents.”
References: Three letters of recommendation, plus a university endorsement, written by the Truman Faculty Representative, are required. One letter must discuss the candidate’s potential for graduate study; one, potential for public service; one must address the leadership experience the candidate has described. The university’s letter of endorsement is formed in part by the on-campus interview with the Truman Selection Committee, in part by discussion with the candidate.

Udall Scholarships

Background: The United States Congress authorized the Morris K. Udall Scholarship and Excellence in National Environmental Policy Foundation in 1992 to honor Congressman Udall and his interest in environmental policy and the rights of Native Americans.
The Scholarships: Fifty-five one-year grants of $5,000 for outstanding sophomores or juniors who intend to pursue careers in environmental policy and to Native Americans who plan careers in health care or tribal policy. Universities may nominate up to three students in each category. Honorable mentions are also announced.
Application: A nominee information form listing activities, course work, jobs, career goals, and an experience that has clarified an interest in environmental policy, together with a 600-word essay on the impact of one of Congressman Udall’s programs.
Who Should Apply: Sophomores or juniors with excellent grades (3.4 or above) who are majoring in the sciences or social sciences and who plan careers in environmental protection or policy should consider applying.
References:  Three letters of recommendation.
For More Information: Visit www.udallfoundations.org.