Unlocking Opportunities: Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship 2025-2026

Embarking on a PhD journey in the United States opens doors to countless academic and professional opportunities. Among these is the prestigious Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship, a fully funded scholarship designed to support international PhD candidates. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the fellowship, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process, ensuring that prospective applicants have all the information they need to navigate this exciting opportunity.

Overview of the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship for the academic year 2025-2026 offers exceptional financial support and resources for scholars in the fields of business and politics. The fellowship is tailored for those who are not only committed to advancing their academic research but also passionate about contributing to scholarly discourse at a prestigious institution.

Key Details

• Level of Study: PhD
• Institution: Jefferson Scholars Foundation
• Study Location: United States
• Courses Offered: Business and Politics
• Program Duration: Three academic years
• Application Deadline: February 1, 2025

Comprehensive Scholarship Coverage

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship offers a robust package of benefits designed to facilitate the academic pursuits of its recipients.

Financial Support

• Annual Stipend: Each fellow receives a stipend of $25,000 to cover living expenses.
• Additional Stipend for Residency: Fellows who choose to reside at the foundation receive an additional stipend of $1,500 for travel and lodging associated with conferences.

Academic Resources

• Dedicated Office Space: Each fellow is provided with an office, allowing for a focused and conducive research environment.
• Access to Resources: Fellows enjoy stack access, inter-library loan privileges, and internet access to enhance their research capabilities.
• Presentation Opportunities: The fellowship offers the chance to present research findings in Hagley’s seminar series, fostering valuable engagement with the academic community.

Networking and Mentorship

• Mentorship Program: Each fellow is paired with a senior scholar who provides mentorship and guidance throughout the fellowship year.
• Conferences: Participation in two conferences (one in fall and one in spring) is mandatory, offering opportunities to present research and receive constructive feedback from peers and mentors.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required.
• Eligibility by Country: Open to applicants from all countries worldwide.
• PhD Candidacy: Applicants must be PhD candidates on track to complete their dissertation by the end of the fellowship year. This program is not intended for post-doctoral scholars.
• Participation Requirement: All fellows are expected to engage actively in the interdisciplinary community at the Jefferson Scholars Foundation.

Residency Expectations

While residence at the foundation is encouraged for fellows, it is not mandatory, except for those in the Jefferson Scholars/Hagley Library Dissertation Fellowship. This particular fellowship requires residency during the academic year.

Application Process

The application for the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship involves several critical components, each designed to showcase the applicant’s qualifications, research focus, and scholarly potential. The following materials are required:

1. Applicant Information Sheet: Basic details about the applicant.
2. Project Description (1,200 words): A detailed overview of the dissertation or book, including the thesis statement, contributions to existing scholarship, and rationale behind the chosen topic.
3. Op-Ed or Blog Post (750 words): A sample op-ed or blog post that connects research findings to a current public policy issue, demonstrating the applicability of academic work to real-world challenges.
4. Bibliography (3 pages): A comprehensive list of sources that underpin the research project.
5. Curriculum Vitae (2 pages): A concise overview of academic and professional experience.
6. Writing Sample (40 pages maximum): This can be a chapter from the dissertation with an introduction or an accepted/published journal article.
7. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters, including one from the applicant’s advisor, to provide insights into the applicant’s academic capabilities and potential.

Application Submission

All application materials must adhere to the specified word or page limits and be submitted through the designated application process. For recommendations, letters can be sent directly to the Selection Board at [email protected].

Conclusion

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship presents an extraordinary opportunity for international PhD candidates in the fields of business and politics. With its comprehensive financial support, mentorship programs, and resources, this fellowship is a gateway to academic success and professional development. We encourage all eligible candidates to prepare their applications meticulously and seize this chance to further their research while contributing to a vibrant scholarly community.

Further Information

For more details about the Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship, including updates and application guidelines, please visit the official website.

By following this guide, prospective applicants can ensure they present a compelling case for their candidacy, thus maximizing their chances of receiving the esteemed fellowship.