How competitive is the GRFP?

The NSF GRFP has struggled with an uneven distribution of the award to a select few graduate schools. In 2019 31\% of the grants were awarded to students of only 10 elite academic universities, with 14\% of them awarded to just the top three: Berkeley, MIT, and Stanford.

How do I get a NSF Graduate fellowship?

To be eligible for the NSF GRFP, you must:

1. be a US citizen, US national, or permanent resident.
2. intend to pursue a research-based Master’s or Ph.
3. be enrolled in an eligible program at an accredited United States graduate institution, with a US campus, by fall following selection.

What is NSF GRFP looking for?

The NSF GRFP funds people, not projects. Unlike other scholarship or fellowship programs, here they’re specifically looking to fund independent, motivated students who have the potential to both advance scientific knowledge and benefit society.

How many times can you apply to NSF?

As a graduate student, you may apply only once, and only if you have completed no more than 12 months of graduate study by the application deadline (you must also meet the other eligibility requirements; see the GRFP Program Solicitation for details).

How do you get into fellowship?

6 Keys to Applying to a Fellowship

1. Identify Your Goals.
2. Understand Your Eligibility.
3. Put Yourself Out There.
4. Plan an Amazing Project and Pitch.
5. Get Great (Honest) Recommendations.
6. Be Real in Your Interview.

How many people get the NSF fellowship?

For the 2020 competition, NSF received over 13,000 applications and made approximately 2,000 fellowships offers.

How do you write an NSF fellowship?

Basic Outline of Application Process

1. You will need to write two essays: Personal Statement, Relevant Background, and Future Goals (3 pages)
2. You will need to get at least three letters of reference.
3. These essays will be reviewed on the criteria of Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.