National Science Foundation: Graduate Research Fellowship Program

The NSF GRFP offers up to three years of financial support with an annual stipend of up to $37,000 and a cost of education allowance to the institution of up to $12,000. They recognize and support outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees at accredited US institutions.

Example Application Cycle

Late October: Applications Due

Shortly after app deadline: Reference Letters Due

For Level 1 Only: Apply to Grad Schools!

March–April: Fellowship Offers

Early May: Acceptance of Award and Declaration of Tenure/Reserve

Early September: Fellowship Year Begins

Eligibility Requirements:

Be a US citizen, national, or permanent resident
Intend to enroll or be enrolled in a research-based master’s or doctoral 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 master’s or professional degree in any field or completed more than one academic year in a graduate degree-granting program unless (1) returning to graduate study after an interruption of two or more consecutive years immediately preceding the application deadline AND (2) not enrolled in a graduate degree program at the application deadline
Not be a current NSF employee

Major Fields of Study:

Chemistry
Life Sciences
Psychology
Engineering
Mathematical Sciences
Computer & Information Sciences and Engineering
Materials Research
Social Sciences
Geosciences
Physics & Astronomy
STEM Education & Learning Research