Nationally Competitive Opportunities

Nationally, and sometimes internationally, competitive fellowships and awards can help you realize your goals. Do you want to spend a year traveling the world? Study overseas? Study a foreign language? Conduct research in another country? These are all possibilities through national fellowships and awards programs.

Some fellowships require the applicant to have the support and endorsement of their undergraduate institution in order to apply. Each program description will indicate whether the program is open for direct application or whether the application process is managed by the Fellowships and Awards committee. The Reed College Faculty Committee on Fellowships and Awards coordinates student applications for those awards that require college nomination, endorsement, or review. In most instances, the committee requires that the student first complete an internal, less formal application. Students who are interested in learning more about these fellowships should explore this website, watch for announcements, talk to the committee liaison for the award that interests them, and make an appointment with an advisor in CLBR.

Announcements

AIF Banyan Impact Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The American India Foundation’s (AIF’s) Banyan Impact Fellowship is an interdisciplinary experiential learning program that places young professionals from India and the U.S. in service with development organizations in India. Through collaboration and capacity-building, Fellows and local communities exchange knowledge and skills to steer projects that advance social and economic development. Fellows learn about grassroots development and inclusive leadership.
American Institute for Economic Research Summer Internships: Apply through Independent Application Process
Founded in 1933, the American Institute for Economic Research (AIER) is one of the oldest and most respected nonpartisan economic research and advocacy organizations in the country. As a paid intern at AIER, you will work closely with staff on projects relating to your interests. During your 10-12 week internship, your skills can be applied to scholarly research, program/event planning, marketing, graphic design, communications, editorial writing, and development/fundraising.
Beinecke Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
Beinecke Scholars receive a total of $35,000 in support of graduate study in a research- or creative-focused master’s or doctoral program in the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program offers grants for U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are Federal Pell Grant recipients to pursue academic studies (study abroad) or credit-bearing, career-oriented internships abroad.
Boren Undergraduate Scholarship and Graduate Fellowship: Apply through Center for Life Beyond Reed
The Boren Scholarship program awards scholarships to American undergraduates for study of world languages and regions critical to U.S. foreign policy interests, including Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin American & the Caribbean, and the Middle East. The Boren Fellowship program funds research and language study proposals by U.S. graduate students in world regions critical to U.S. interests.
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The James C. Gaither Junior Fellows Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, an international policy think tank based in Washington D.C., is designed to provide a substantive work experience for students who have a serious career interest in the area of international affairs. Approximately 15 fellows work as employees each year on a full-time basis for 10–12 months. Fellows provide research assistance to scholars working within Carnegie’s programs and have the opportunity to conduct research, contribute to op-eds, papers, reports, and books, edit documents, participate in meetings with high-level officials, contribute to congressional testimony and organize briefings attended by scholars, activists, journalists and government officials.
Churchill Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Churchill Scholarship awards sixteen scholarships per year for one year of graduate study in in science, mathematics, and engineering leading to a either an MPhil (Master of Philosophy) or MASt (Master of Advanced Study) at Churchill College at the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, England.
Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) for Young Professionals is a funded fellowship that annually provides 75 American and 75 German young professionals the opportunity to spend one year in each other’s countries, studying, interning, and living with hosts on a cultural immersion program.
Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute: Public Policy Fellowship Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) offers paid fellowships for recent college graduates pursuing a career in public policy. You will spend nine months working in Washington, D.C., with significant exposure to leaders in congressional offices, federal agencies, national nonprofit advocacy organizations, government-related institutes, and more.
Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs (FPPA) is a comprehensive and rigorous national fellowship that equips emerging civic leaders with the knowledge, skills and networks that transform them as individuals with the promise that they then transform their organizations, communities and beyond. The program is an in-person, full-time, 7–9 month immersive leadership development program in one of five locations in the US. The Fellowship runs annually from September to May.
Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Critical Language Scholarship (CLS) Program is a fully-funded summer overseas language and cultural immersion program for American undergraduate and graduate students.
Cultural Vistas: Apply through Independent Application Process
Cultural Vistas is a nonprofit based in the U.S. and Europe which is dedicated to increasing global exchange through a variety of programs (including the CBYX program which is designed to strengthen German-American relations). They offer 20+ exchange programs to help students and professionals from the U.S. and around the world gain global experience. Programs include J-1 services, internships & fellowships, workshops, professional study tours, and seed grants. Since each sub-program has it's own eligibility and goals, you have to click around and read quite a bit to find programs for which you might be eligible.
DAAD: German Academic Exchange Service: Apply through Independent Application Process
DAAD, the German Academic Exchange Service (or Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst), offers an array of programs for study, research, and experiential opportunities in Germany.
Donald M. Payne International Development Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Payne Fellowship awards up to thirty fellowships valued at up to $52,000 annually over two years for graduate school, internships, and professional development activities. The Program seeks to attract outstanding young people who are interested in pursuing careers in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Upon successful completion of the Payne Program and USAID entry requirements, Fellows receive an appointment to the USAID Foreign Service, with a required five years of service.
Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity sponsors an annual essay contest for full-time undergraduate juniors and seniors. Students are prompted to write essays that raise questions, single out issues and are rational arguments for ethical action.
Ellison Scholars: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Ellison Scholars program for graduate study is offered by the Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), in partnership with the University of Oxford in England. The program fully funds DPhil (PhD) study at Oxford where the Scholars' doctoral research will center on an EIT project. EIT projects seek to accelerate innovation in health and medical science, food security and sustainable agriculture, climate change and clean energy, and government innovation and era of artificial intelligence. Applicants must be eligible to enroll in a DPhil course at Oxford, and must also meet the criteria of the Ellison Scholars program.
English Teaching Overseas: Apply through Independent Application Process
Several programs offer opportunities to teach English overseas, including: JET (Japan), TAPIF (France), NALCAP (Spain). There also opportunities in Chile, Austria, and through the Princeton in Asia and Fulbright English Teaching Assistant programs.
Ernest F. Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Hollings Scholarship Program provides successful undergraduate applicants with awards that include academic assistance (up to $9,500 per year) for two years of full-time study and a 10-week, full-time paid ($700/week) internship at a NOAA facility during the summer. The internship between the first and second years of the award provides the scholars with hands-on, practical experience in NOAA-related science, research, technology, policy, management, and education activities. Awards also include travel funds to attend a mandatory NOAA Scholarship Program orientation and the annual Science & Education Symposium, scientific conferences where students present their research, and a housing subsidy for scholars who do not reside at home during the summer internship.
FAO Schwarz Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The FAO Schwarz Fellowship is a paid two-year program that helps new college graduates gain the skills and experience needed to become social impact leaders. Fellows work at leading nonprofit organizations in Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia known for delivering significant value to their communities. The Fellowship program also includes professional development, mentorship, and networking experiences.
Fulbright U.S. Student Program: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program seeks to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. Grants are available to support study and research in most fields (including in the creative and performing arts) and to teach English.
Fulbright UK Summer Institutes: Apply through Independent Application Process
The US-UK Fulbright Commission offers special Summer Institutes for US citizens to study in the UK.
Garden Club of America: Apply through Independent Application Process
Since 1928 The Garden Club of America has funded more than 1,300 scholars. The GCA offers 27 merit-based scholarships in 12 areas supporting a variety of academic endeavors ranging from summer environmental study and field work, to graduate level research.
Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Apply through Independent Application Process
Gates Cambridge Scholarships cover the full cost of studying in a post graduate degree program at the University of Cambridge.
Goldwater Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Barry Goldwater Scholarship Program was created to provide a continuing source of highly qualified scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by awarding scholarships to college students who intend to pursue research careers in these fields.
Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship Program invites recent college and graduate school alumni to apply for full-time, six-to-nine month fellowships in Washington, DC. Outstanding individuals will be selected to work with nonprofit, public-interest organizations addressing peace and security issues. Applications are especially encouraged from candidates with a strong interest in these issues who have prior experience with public-interest activism or advocacy. Fellows receive a monthly salary, and a professional development stipend.
Hertz Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Hertz Fellowship is awarded annually to the nation’s most promising graduate students in science and technology. Their goal is to identify innovators with the greatest potential to create transformative solutions to the world's most urgent challenges.
Hostelling International USA Explore the World Travel Scholarship: Apply through Independent Application Process
Hostelling International USA (HI USA), believes that travel changes you so you can change the world. They offer the Explore the World Travel Scholarship to help young Americans, regardless of financial need, travel experience, or location, to connect with other countries and cultures. Recipients of the scholarship receive $2,000 to help finance an international trip that includes an educational or service component. A second version of the award, the First Passport Edition provides additional funds to an awardee who has never held a U.S. passport.
Humanity in Action Fellowships: Apply through Independent Application Process
Humanity in Action conducts three-week summer educational programs that run simultaneously in major cities in Europe and the United States.
James Madison Graduate Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation offers $24,000 James Madison Graduate Fellowships to individuals desiring to become outstanding teachers of the American Constitution at the secondary school level. Fellowship applicants compete only against other applicants from the states of their legal residence.
Knight-Hennessy Scholarship, Stanford University: Apply through Independent Application Process
Enrolling its first class in 2018, the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program annually identifies a group of 100 high-achieving students from around the world with demonstrated leadership and civic commitment to receive full funding to pursue a wide-ranging graduate education at Stanford, with the goal of developing a new generation of global leaders.
Marshall Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
Marshall Scholarships finance young Americans of high ability to study for one or two graduate degrees in the United Kingdom over a two year period with a goal of strengthening the relationship between the people of the US and the UK. Applicants may apply for a one year Marshall Scholarship instead, but they must have strong reasons for being unable to commit to the two-year scholarship.
McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill: Apply through Independent Application Process
The McCall MacBain Scholarship covers tuition and fees for an eligible master’s program (over 150 eligible programs) or a second-entry professional undergraduate program at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, a monthly living stipend during academic terms, a one-time relocation grant, and options for summer funding. Scholars also participate in a leadership development program, connect with mentors and advisors, and attend a breadth of workshops and talks.
National Institute of Standards in Technology Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
Spend your summer working elbow to elbow with researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), one of the world's leading research organizations and home to three Nobel Prize winners. Gain valuable hands-on experience in this SURF program, work with cutting-edge technology, meet peers from across the nation, and sample the Gaithersburg, MD or Boulder, CO area.
National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The National Science Foundation's Graduate Research Fellowship Program stipend is currently $37,000 for a 12-month tenure, for up to three years of financial support.
National Science Foundation - Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs): Apply through Independent Application Process
The National Science Foundation funds a large number of research opportunities for undergraduate students through its REU Sites program. An REU Site consists of a group of ten or so undergraduates who work in the research programs of the host institution. Each student is associated with a specific research project, where he/she works closely with the faculty and other researchers.
NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholars program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The National Institutes of Health Oxford-Cambridge Scholars Program is an accelerated, individualized doctoral training program for outstanding science students committed to biomedical research careers.
NobleReach Scholars: NobleReach Scholars embark on a one- or two-year journey. They step into fully compensated roles within government or mission-driven, private sector organizations that are at the forefront of tackling complex challenges. This experience is further enriched by multidisciplinary programming in Washington DC in which scholars connect with senior policy leaders and learn about the policymaking ecosystem, offering a unique blend of practical work and theoretical learning. Scholars also benefit from support and mentorship from a network of experts across both government sectors and innovative industry startups. This comprehensive approach ensures NobleReach Scholars gain professional experience, essential skills and unique connections to drive meaningful change in Tech, Science, and Entrepreneurship through public service. Applicants must have demonstrated interest and experience in one of the following areas: Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, Computing & Cybersecurity, Business Process Innovation, or Materials & Manufacturing.
NYC Urban Fellows Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Urban Fellows Program is a highly selective, nine-month fellowship which combines work in Mayoral offices and City agencies with volunteer service opportunities and a seminar series that explores current urban issues impacting public policy
Oregon Sea Grant Undergraduate Opportunities: Apply through Independent Application Process
Established at Oregon State University in 1971, Oregon Sea Grant is one of 34 programs within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Sea Grant College Program. Oregon Sea Grant's vision is one of thriving coastal communities and ecosystems in Oregon. They achieve this vision by serving as a catalyst that promotes discovery, understanding and resilience for Oregon coastal communities and ecosystems. They offer multiple programs, mostly over summer, which are available to undergraduate students.
Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans provides merit-based funding for New Americans, immigrants and children of immigrants, who are poised to make significant contributions to US culture, society and academia. This fellowship supports thirty individuals for up to two years of graduate study in any subject at any accredited university in the United States.
Projects for Peace: Apply through Independent Application Process
Projects for Peace is a global program that encourages young adults to develop innovative, community-centered, and scalable responses to the world’s most pressing issues. Along the way, these student leaders increase their knowledge, improve skills, and establish identities as peacebuilders and changemakers. Projects for Peace awards $10,000 in grant funding for an original project designed to be implemented over the summer. Reed College has been a partner with Projects for Peace since 2008 and has awarded grants nearly every year. Projects for Peace is a global program housed in the Middlebury College Center for Community Engagement and was previously known as the Davis Projects for Peace.
Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship grants future public policy leaders access to the Junior Summer Institute (JSI), a fully funded and rigorous graduate school preparation program, and lifetime participation in PPIA's Alumni Network and annual Public Service Expo. The summer institute program is composed of six-week summer programs hosted at some of the top graduate policy schools in the nation.
Quad Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Quad Fellowship is designed to build ties among the next generation of scientists and technologists. It is also the first multinational scholarship and educational fellowship program specifically supporting students in STEM. The fellowship sponsors exceptional master's and doctoral students to study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in the United States. Quad Fellows receive a one-time stipend of $40,000 to be used for academic expenses and will have the opportunity to network and engage in programming with accomplished minds in STEM, government, and society. Citizens or legal permanent residents of one of the Quad countries — Australia, India, Japan, or the United States — or any of the 10 ASEAN countries — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam — are eligible.
Rangel Graduate Fellowship Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Rangel Program's goals are to promote greater diversity and excellence in the U.S. Foreign Service. The program encourages the application of members of minority groups historically under-represented in the Department of State. The fellowship provides support for up to two years of study towards a degree in an area of relevance to the work of the Foreign Service.
Rhodes Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Rhodes Scholarship is a fully funded, full time, postgraduate award which enables talented young people from around the world to study at the University of Oxford. It is the oldest, and one of the most prestigious, international scholarship programs in the world. This scholarship looks for young people of outstanding intellect, character, leadership, and commitment to service. Rhodes Scholars go to the UK for two or more years and can apply to study most full-time postgraduate courses offered by Oxford University. The scholarship covers course fees and provides an annual stipend to cover accommodation and living expenses. They also cover visa fees, the National Health Service fee, airfare to and from the UK, and offer a settling in allowance upon arrival in Oxford.
Rotary Grants, Scholarships, and Fellowships: Apply through Independent Application Process
Rotary is an international service organization that requires membership. Their stated mission is to "provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders." They offer grants, scholarships, and fellowships connected to their mission, including grants for undergraduate and graduate study. Most of these require Rotary club membership, except for for their Peace fellowships.
Rotary Peace Fellowships: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Rotary Peace Fellowships support MA degrees at partner universities in fields related to peace and conflict prevention and resolution.
Samuel Huntington Public Service Award: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Samuel Huntington Public Service Award provides a $30,000 stipend for a graduating college senior to pursue one year of public service anywhere in the world.
Samvid Scholars: Apply through Independent Application Process
A scholarship for future leaders and changemakers, Samvid Scholars was established in 2021 by Samvid Ventures to invest in the graduate education of future leaders who are committed to effecting positive change in society. An eligible candidate will pursue a full-time graduate program of two years or longer at a university in the United States, in one of the following eligible programs: MD, MBA, JD, MPP/MPA, MPH, MS/MA in the social sciences or STEM. Scholars receive up to $50K for tuition and fees each year for two years of study in a graduate program, as well as two years of leadership development programming.
Schwarzman Scholars: Apply through Independent Application Process
Schwarzman Scholars is a fully-funded, one-year master’s degree and leadership program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. At the heart of the program are world-renowned advisers, a rigorous and innovative study of global affairs, and hands-on exploration of Chinese culture and commerce.
Short-Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP): Apply through Independent Application Process
The Short-Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP) Program provides hands-on summer research experience for underrepresented high school and undergraduate students interested in exploring research careers. Students receive summer stipends to support research at a location chosen by them with the help of a STEP-UP coordinator. If selected, students are encouraged, but not required, to pursue research in diabetes, endocrinology and metabolic diseases; digestive diseases and nutrition; or kidney, urologic and hematologic diseases.
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institution (STRI) in Panama, is a bureau of the Smithsonian Institution, dedicated to understanding biological diversity, and offers a range of research opportunities for students.
Sperling Studentship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
John Sperling '48, founder of the University of Phoenix and an alumnus of both Reed College and the University of Cambridge, committed funds to support Reed graduates in the pursuit of postgraduate studies at the University of Cambridge, King's College. Seniors and alumni may apply for Sperling funding for either a one-year master's degree or a three-year doctoral degree at Cambridge. The Studentship will cover tuition, college and university fees, and room and board. Applications are considered in all fields at Cambridge except medicine and education.
STEM Research: Apply through Independent Application Process
Search tool for science research opportunities
Summer Health Professions Education Program: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Summer Health Professions Education Program (SHPEP) is a free six-week summer enrichment program focused on improving access to information and resources for college students interested in the health professions. SHPEP’s goal is to strengthen the academic proficiency and career development of students underrepresented in the health professions and prepare them for a successful application and matriculation to health professions schools. These students include, but are not limited to, individuals who identify as African American/Black, American Indian and Alaska Native and Hispanic/Latino, and who are from communities of socioeconomic and educational disadvantage. SHPEP, formerly known as the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP), expanded in 2016 to include a broader array of health professions.
Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program is a program funded by the U.S. Department of State, administered by Howard University, that attracts and prepares outstanding young people for Foreign Service careers in the U.S. Department of State. It welcomes the application of members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department, women, and those with financial need. Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, social, and geographic diversity.
Truman Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Harry S. Truman Scholarship provides awards of up to $30,000 to approximately 60 students each year to support graduate degrees leading to careers in government or the nonprofit and advocacy sectors.
Udall Undergraduate Scholarship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation awards approximately 55 scholarships each year to undergraduate students who intend to pursue careers related to the environment and conservation as well as to Native American and Alaska Native undergraduate students who intend to pursue careers in health care and tribal policy. Udall Scholars receive access to the Udall Alumni Network, participate in an in-person summer Scholar Orientation, and receive up to $7,000 for eligible academic expenses.
Voyager Scholarship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Voyager Scholarship (also known as the Obama Chesky Scholarship for Public Service) gives college students financial aid to alleviate the burden of undergraduate college debt, meaningful travel experiences to expand their horizons, and a network of mentors and leaders to support them. Applicants should have a passion for helping others, experience serving in or building community, and an expansive view of what’s possible through public service. The scholarship provides financial aid for the junior and senior year, a grant to pay for a summer voyage between the junior and senior year, and ten-year annual travel stipend from Airbnb. Awardees are invited to a fall summit each year, and gain access to a network of leaders via the Obama Foundation.
Watson Fellowship: Apply through Reed Fellowships and Awards Committee
The Thomas J. Watson Fellowship is a one-year grant for purposeful, independent exploration outside the United States, awarded to graduating seniors nominated by one of 41 partner institutions. This fellowship is a rare window after college and pre-career to engage your deepest interest on a global scale. Fellows conceive original projects, execute them outside of the United States for one year and embrace the ensuing journey. They decide where to go, who to meet and when to change course. They do not affiliate with academic institutions and may not hold formal employment.
WW Teaching Fellowship: Apply through Independent Application Process
The Woodrow Wilson Teaching Fellowship program prepares recent graduates and career changers with STEM backgrounds to teach in middle and high school science and math classrooms.

The Center for Life Beyond Reed

Nationally Competitive Opportunities