NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship

The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) gives graduate students across various disciplines the opportunity to pursue advanced studies. This includes subjects like mathematics, physical sciences, biological sciences, engineering, behavioral and social sciences, and the history of science. Special awards are also available for female students focusing on engineering and computer science fields.

Recipients of this fellowship receive an annual stipend of $34,000, as well as full tuition and fee waivers for three years. The application process is done online, with a submission deadline typically in early October.

How to Apply

1. To apply, visit the Research.gov website.

2. Request a practice score for your application from Ashlee Ford Versypt at least 72 hours before the relevant NSF GRFP deadline for your field.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for this fellowship, you must:

1. Be a U.S. national, citizen, or lawful permanent resident.

2. Be in your first or second year of undergraduate study or in your senior year of graduate school.

3. Intend to enroll in a research-focused master’s or doctoral program in a subject area covered by the GRFP.

4. Be enrolled in an accredited U.S. graduate school by the fall semester following your selection.

Fellowship Benefits

• A five-year fellowship covering tuition, fees, and health insurance benefits.
• An annual allowance of $37,000.
• A $12,000 cost-of-education stipend provided to the institution.
• Opportunities for professional development (GRIP and GROW).
• Access to doctoral programs for fellows and honorable mentions.
• No service obligation.
• Additional resources to support research during medical deferral.

Selection Criteria

Expert reviewers assess and rank applications based on the Merit Review Criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.

Application Deadline

The deadline varies based on the academic discipline, with different dates in October each year. Refer to the program solicitation on the NSF website for specific dates.

FAQs

What is the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)?

The NSF GRFP is a prestigious fellowship offered by the National Science Foundation to support outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. It provides financial support for up to three years, including a stipend and a cost-of-education allowance, allowing students to focus on research and graduate studies.

Who is eligible to apply for the NSF GRFP?

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents and be enrolled in an eligible graduate program in a STEM field supported by NSF. Candidates should generally be in the early stages of their graduate studies, typically within the first or second year of a research-based master’s or doctoral program.

What does the NSF GRFP application involve?

The application process requires submitting a personal statement, a proposed research plan, and a set of letters of recommendation. Applicants are evaluated based on intellectual merit, which considers academic achievements and potential for significant contributions to their field, and broader impacts, which assess potential benefits to society and the advancement of STEM education and research.

What are the benefits of receiving the NSF GRFP?

Fellows receive an annual stipend, currently $38,000, and a cost-of-education allowance of $12,000 to their institution. In addition to financial support, fellows gain recognition in their field, networking opportunities, and access to professional development resources. The fellowship also provides flexibility to pursue independent research and study abroad opportunities related to their graduate program.