Overview

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation National Fellowship is one of the most prestigious opportunities available to graduate students in the United States. Aimed at providing financial support to exceptional scholars who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service, the Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to pursue advanced study while being part of a renowned network of intellectuals and leaders.

Who Can Apply?

• The fellowship is open to Ph.D. candidates who are expected to complete their dissertation by the end of the fellowship year. This is not a post-doctoral fellowship, so applicants must still be enrolled as PhD candidates.
• Applicants must be working on a dissertation that is relevant to Business or Politics. The dissertation should make a significant contribution to existing scholarship.
• This fellowship is open to applicants from all countries. Non-U.S. citizens are welcome to apply.
• All fellows are required to participate in two conferences (fall and spring) where they will present their research. Expenses for these conferences are covered.

Application Procedure

• Applicant Information Sheet
• Project Description (1,200 words): Provide a detailed description of your dissertation or book, outline your thesis, explain how it adds to or challenges existing scholarship, and discuss the reasoning behind choosing this particular topic.
• Op-ed or Blog Post (750 words): Submit a published or sample op-ed (such as those featured in the New York Times) or a blog post (similar to those on Slate.com) that applies a key finding from your research to a current public policy issue.
• Bibliography (3 pages)
• Curriculum Vitae (2 pages)
• Writing Sample (Maximum 40 pages): Choose a chapter from your dissertation (with a one-page introduction contextualizing it within the broader project) or an accepted/published journal article.
• Two Letters of Recommendation: One must be from your academic advisor. These letters can be submitted through the application process or directly sent to the Selection Board at nationalfellows@jeffersonscholars.org.

What Financial Support is Available?

• The Fellow receives a stipend of $25,000 for the year.
• An office, stack access, inter-library loan privileges, internet access, the opportunity to present a paper in Hagley’s seminar series, and use of Hagley’s discounted scholar’s accommodations.