Nationally competitive fellowships, scholarships, and grants offer undergraduates and recent graduates the opportunity to pursue their passions and achieve their goals—both during their time at Sarah Lawrence and beyond. These awards can provide funding for graduate education, postgraduate research, self-designed projects, undergraduate studies, and summer enrichment. They also offer unique opportunities to engage in scholarly work, conduct research, develop valuable skills, and explore different parts of the world—all while pursuing what inspires you.

The Dean of Studies Office supports Sarah Lawrence students and recent alumni in exploring and applying for fellowships. We provide guidance throughout the application process, including assistance with personal statements and project proposals. Working closely with faculty, we strive to enrich students’ intellectual and personal growth by helping them navigate these competitive and rewarding opportunities.

 

What are Fellowships? {expander}

Fellowships are funded opportunities! They are grants awarded by organizations or government agencies to support passion projects, research, or graduate study. Open to students from all disciplines, class years (including alumni), and citizenships, fellowships come in many forms and fund a wide range of experiences, including undergraduate research, special projects, summer enrichment, study or work abroad (such as teaching, conducting research, or earning an advanced degree), and graduate study. Most fellowships are for a fixed duration and often involve traveling to a specific location or institution, where you will be hosted as a “fellow.” While each fellowship is unique, they all provide opportunities for personal, intellectual, and professional growth—empowering you to shape your own path. 

For Sarah Lawrence College students, competitive fellowships can open doors to transformative experiences that align with the college's mission of interdisciplinary study, creativity, and critical thinking. Whether you're passionate about research, the arts, social justice, or global engagement, there’s likely a fellowship that aligns with your ambitions.

Interested? It’s never too early to start exploring your options!

Who Can Apply for Fellowships?{expander}

Fellowships are open to a wide range of applicants, depending on the specific opportunity. In general, those who can apply include:

Undergraduates – Some fellowships are available to first-years, sophomores, and juniors to support research, study, or enrichment experiences.

Seniors & Recent Alumni – Many fellowships fund postgraduate experiences, such as research projects, teaching abroad, or other experiential learning opportunities.

Graduate Students – Some fellowships provide funding for master’s and doctoral studies, either in the U.S. or internationally.

Applicants of All Citizenships – While some fellowships are limited to U.S. citizens or permanent residents, many are open to international students.

Students from All Disciplines – Fellowships support a broad range of fields, from the humanities and social sciences to STEM, the arts, and beyond.

Each fellowship has its own eligibility criteria, so it’s important to research specific opportunities to see if you qualify! Would you like help finding fellowships that match your profile? Current undergraduate students and recent alumni are eligible to seek guidance and support from our office. 

Why Should You Apply? {expander}

Whether or not you ultimately receive a fellowship, the application process itself is a valuable opportunity for personal and intellectual growth. It encourages you to clarify your goals, ambitions, and motivations while developing a compelling narrative about your experiences and aspirations. At Sarah Lawrence, you’ll also have the benefit of a supportive community of faculty and fellowship advisors to guide you as you take on this challenge.

While fellowship outcomes are never guaranteed—many factors influence selection, including the number of applicants in a given year—only those who apply have a chance to win. If awarded a fellowship that aligns with your goals, you’ll gain a transformative experience, access to a prestigious alumni network, and connections to people and places that can shape your future in ways you never imagined.

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