Eligibility - Academic Status

There are four eligibility requirements: citizenship, discipline, academic status, and the ability to accept the full benefit. You must meet all four requirements in order to be eligible.

Am I eligible if…

…I am completing my senior year of undergraduate study before fall 2009?

…I have an undergraduate degree and have never enrolled in a graduate program?

…I am in my first year of my graduate program?

...I am starting my second year of graduate school in Fall 2008?

…I have been going to graduate school part time and have fewer than 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours completed before the start of the fall semester?

Yes, you meet the eligibility requirements because you are clearly considered at the early stages of your graduate studies. If you meet one of the above criteria and the "Academic Status Explanation" section appears on your application, just explain your current status in that section as specified in the Application Instructions.

…I am in graduate school, but I changed my thesis, field, advisor, or institution, and very little of my research/coursework is transferable; so I am effectively starting my graduate work over?

You are strongly encouraged to apply, although depending on your specific circumstance you may or may not be eligible. If you meet one of the above criteria, the "Academic Status Explanation" section will likely appear on your application. If it appears, explain your current status in that section as specified in the Application Instructions. Your response will be used to determine whether you are considered at the early stages of you graduate studies in a discipline supported by the fellowship. Please note that only complete applications will be reviewed.

…I am currently not enrolled in school?

If you are not currently enrolled as a student, you are eligible to apply.

…I am currently enrolled in a Master's program and will be starting my Ph.D. after I complete my Master's?

If you are applying while in your first or second year of a Master's program, then you are still considered eligible.

…I have a Ph.D. in a science or engineering field related to the supported disciplines?

…I have a medical degree?

No, you are not at the early stages of your graduate studies and are not eligible.