National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)

National Science Foundation

Amount: $37,000 stipend + $16,000 cost-of-education allowance
Deadline: Varies by discipline (late October/early November)
Level: graduate
Renewable: Yes

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About

The NSF GRFP recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines who are pursuing research-based master's and doctoral degrees. It provides a generous stipend and cost-of-education allowance.

Eligibility

  • Citizenship: US
  • GPA: Competitive
  • Undergraduate seniors or first-year graduate students seeking research-based master's or Ph.D. degrees in NSF-supported STEM disciplines

Required Materials

  • Application form
  • Personal statement
  • Graduate research plan statement
  • Transcripts
  • 3 recommendation letters

Timeline

Applications open in late July/early August. Deadlines vary by discipline, typically late October or early November. Winners notified in early April.

Tips

Clearly articulate your intellectual merit and broader impacts in your research plan. Seek feedback from faculty on your essays. Strong letters of recommendation from mentors are critical.