Information for Applicants

The U.S. National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP) can help fund your graduate education and kick-start your career.

NSF GRFP is a prestigious program that supports outstanding graduate students pursuing research-based master's and doctoral degrees across NSF-supported science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The fellowship offers:

  • Five-year award with three years of financial support:
    • $37,000 stipend plus $16,000 cost of education (COE) paid to the institution for each year of funding support.
    • COE payment covers all tuition and mandatory fees (no cost to student).
    • $53,000 each year for three years over a five-year period.
  • No post-graduate study service requirement.
  • Access to supplemental funding to sustain research while on medical leave.

Use this page to learn more about the program, whether you are eligible, and how to apply.


Am I eligible to apply?

Learn what makes a person eligible to apply to NSF GRFP.


What are the major fields of study?

Selecting your major field of study determines the application deadline and expertise of the people who will review the application.


How do I apply?

Learn about the different components of the GRFP application and how to submit your application package.


How are applications reviewed?

Learn about the review process and the NSF Merit Review Criteria.


Frequently asked questions

View answers to commonly asked questions about the NSF GRFP application process.


Tips, templates, and other resources

Learn how to prepare a strong application package.