NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics disciplines who are pursuing research-based Master's and doctoral degrees at accredited United States institutions.
About the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program
The Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is a flagship program of the National Science Foundation. It aims to ensure the vitality and diversity of the scientific and engineering workforce in the United States. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to research, teaching, and innovations in science and engineering.
Fellows receive a three-year annual stipend of $37,000 along with a $16,000 cost of education allowance for tuition and fees, which is paid to the institution. The fellowship is portable, meaning it follows the student to their chosen accredited institution in the United States.
The program is open to individuals who are citizens, nationals, or permanent residents of the United States. Applicants must be enrolled in or planning to enroll in a research-based Master's or doctoral program in an NSF-supported field of study.
The selection process is highly competitive and based on a holistic review of the applicant's potential for significant research achievements. Reviewers evaluate applications based on two criteria: Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.
The fellowship provides opportunities for international research collaborations and professional development. Fellows are expected to engage in research activities that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Provides significant financial support for graduate studies
Recognized as a prestigious award in the scientific community
Offers flexibility in research focus and institutional choice
Supports the development of future leaders in STEM
Facilitates networking with top researchers and institutions
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
5 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Create an account on the Research.gov portal
Select the appropriate field of study
Upload personal statement and research plan
Request three letters of reference through the portal
Submit official transcripts
Finalize and submit the application before the October deadline
Application Timeline
July
Application Opening
October
Application Deadline
April
Award Notification
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Focus heavily on both Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts in your essays
Choose references who know your research potential well
Start drafting your research plan early to allow for multiple revisions
Ensure your transcripts are uploaded well before the deadline
Review the specific solicitation for the current year as requirements can change
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
US citizens, nationals, and permanent residents pursuing research-based Master's or PhD degrees in NSF-supported STEM fields.
It provides a $37,000 annual stipend and a $16,000 cost of education allowance for three years.
Yes, the fellowship is portable and can be used at any accredited US institution offering a research-based graduate degree.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around July. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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