What is a fellowship?

A fellowship provides funding for students who are going to Graduate School. Fellowships often serve a specific interest, and they will apply to a number of schools either abroad or in the United States. Fellowships differ from scholarships in that fellowships are designed to provide opportunities for professional training and have specific requirements for recipients.

Who is eligible to apply for a fellowship?

Any full-time student at Missouri State University is eligible to apply.

How many fellowships may I apply for?

There are several fellowships available. We have the most well known national fellowships listed on our website. You may apply for an unlimited amount of fellowships; however, fellowship applications require a lot of time and commitment. We recommend focusing your efforts on one or two fellowships that are suited to your interests and experience.

How do I determine which fellowship is best suited for me?

Fellowships often serve a specific interest. For example, the Truman fellowship is intended for students who plan on pursuing a career in government or public service. You should first determine your interests and goals, and then select a fellowship that would complement your experience and future plans. The Fellowships Office can advise you on the specifics of each fellowship.

What do fellowship applications require?

Each fellowship is unique, but there are certain requirements that you can expect to find for most fellowship applications. Following is a list of typical fellowship requirements:
o Two to eight letters of reference
o Nomination of faculty representative
o Personal Essay/Proposed Research Plan
o Interview with judges
o GRE score

Do students from MSU have an equal chance at winning?

All students are afforded the same chance. Recently, students from state universities have been just as successful at winning fellowships as those students from Ivy League schools. MSU’s most recent scholar is Elizabeth Taglauer who won the Fulbright and is currently studying in Paris, France.

Does fellowship money apply to MSU graduate work?

No

What if I don’t win?

Being nominated by the University is an accomplishment in itself. Even if you do not win, you will have tested your limits, recognized your strengths, and learned a great deal about yourself and your interests along the way. Most applicants claim they are very satisfied with their decision to apply for a fellowship regardless of the outcome.

Why do I keep getting "Honors College" when I call the Fellowships Office phone number?

Good question! This is because the Fellowships Office is administrated by the Honors College. When calling the Fellowships Office, be sure to state that you are calling for the Fellowships Office. This will prevent confusion and allow the Honors College/Fellowships Office to give you the appropriate service.

What if I have a question or suggestion for the Fellowships Office?

The Fellowships Office would be delighted to hear from you. You may send an email or call the Fellowships Office.

What if I have question about a fellowship?

The Fellowships Office is here to answer to any question you may have concerning any of the fellowships listed on this site. Many answers are on the fellowships pages, but we do realize that there may be more specific questions that students want to ask. Feel free to contact with Fellowships Office here.