The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is the oldest graduate fellowship program in the United States that specifically supports science, technology, engineering, and mathematics graduates. The NSF, established in 1950 under the Truman administration, has funded over 46,500 GRFs since 1952. Students who participate in the GRFP have achieved things such as becoming Nobel laureates and members of the National Academy of Sciences. More than 70 percent of GRFP students complete their doctorates within 11 years. It is anticipated that NSF Fellows not only become knowledge experts, but also contribute significantly to research, teaching, and innovation in their fields as successful leaders and professionals.
Fellows, in addition to a $30,000 stipend over three years and a $10,500 allowance for tuition and fees, are given opportunities for international research, professional development, and conducting their own research at any accredited U.S. institution of graduate education.
Who should apply
Full-time students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines at accredited U.S. institutions should apply. Prospective applicants should be motivated and excited about conducting research, as well as intuitive about how their research will impact society. Students can apply online through the NSF GRFP website.