NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program 2027: Eligibility Requirements, STEM Fields, Benefits, and How to Qualify for the U.S. Graduate Fellowship

Overview

The National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program is designed to support outstanding students pursuing advanced research-based education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Administered by the U.S. National Science Foundation, the program aims to develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, innovators, and research leaders by supporting individuals with strong academic potential and a commitment to advancing knowledge through research. The program focuses on eligible research-based master's and doctoral degrees at qualifying institutions in the United States, with the primary objective of strengthening the country's scientific and technological workforce by investing in promising researchers early in their careers.

Who can apply

The program targets eligible undergraduate seniors, recent bachelor's degree graduates who have not yet enrolled in a graduate degree program, eligible joint bachelor's-master's students, and qualifying first-year graduate students. Applicants must intend to enroll in or already be enrolled full-time in an eligible research-based master's or doctoral degree program in an eligible science, technology, engineering, or mathematics field at a nonprofit institution of higher education that is accredited in and has a campus located in the United States, its territories or possessions, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Applicants must be citizens of the United States, U.S. nationals, or lawful permanent residents of the United States at the time of submission. International students on temporary student visas and individuals with pending green-card applications are ineligible.