McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program 2025-2026 (FULLY FUNDED)

Applications are presently being accepted for the McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program 2025-2026. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.

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About McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program

Opportunity Details

The McDonnell Academy is a university-wide initiative that benefits all seven WashU academic schools by attracting premier graduate students from international institutions and the United States.

McDonnell Scholars are WashU graduate students chosen based on their ability to emerge as leaders and experts in their fields, with perspectives that reflect cultural competence. The McDonnell Academy unites these exceptional individuals from diverse academic disciplines and regions around the world, fostering a dynamic and vibrant community enriched by a multitude of cultures and perspectives.

As part of the commitment to being a McDonnell Scholar, students engage in a first-year leadership seminar, cohort trips, community service projects, and presentation skills development. Participation is a key component of the program. Through mentorship, professional development, and unique engagement opportunities, McDonnell Scholars embark on a transformative journey that enhances their capacity to drive positive change, emerging with a global outlook and the ability to foster growth in their communities and beyond.

Benefits of McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program

  • Comprehensive Support

Fully funded tuition, generous monthly stipend, professional development funding, one-time relocation allowance, and access to extensive resources such as networking opportunities, specialized workshops, exclusive events, and corporate showcases.

  • Leadership Development

Scholars engage in enriching learning opportunities that have been specially tailored to develop leadership skills and to prepare them to tackle complex issues with ingenuity and resilience.

  • Community Living

Opportunity to reside in private, modern cohort housing within walking distance to the Danforth campus.

  • Mentorship by Renowned Faculty 

​​​​​​​World-class faculty provide personalized mentorship and guidance to support academic and professional development.

  • Immersive Cultural Experiences

Experience life in vibrant St. Louis and participate in cultural events and activities. Each year, first- and second-year McDonnell Scholars travel to either New York or Washington D.C.

  • Communications Training

Scholars participate in specialized communication training courses to enhance their interpersonal, presentation, and written communication skills.

  • Global Network

Join a diverse and vibrant community of scholars and alumni from across the globe, creating lifelong connections that bridge cultures and academic disciplines.

 

McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program Requirements

To qualify to apply for the McDonnell International Scholars Academy fellowship program:

  • Applicants must submit an application to an eligible WashU doctoral or master’s degree program. For most programs, applicants can submit their applications to both the desired graduate program and the McDonnell Academy through the WashU graduate application portal. Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to an application to a graduate degree program at Washington University in St. Louis.
  • Applicants must have earned or plan to earn a bachelor’s degree or higher before the end of the 2025-2026 academic year (July 2026). This fellowship is not available for undergraduate studies.

    Applicants from from all domestic and international institutions are welcome to apply! Priority is given to international graduate candidates who are graduates of one of the 30+ partner universities.

Application Date and Process

To complete your application, you must submit the following materials:

  • Personal essay – Write an essay, 750 words or less, explaining why you want to be a McDonnell Scholar and how the McDonnell Academy fellowship will impact your goals and career aspirations. 
  • Short video – Record a two-minute video using the provided prompts to help us get to know you beyond your academic pursuits.

Application Deadline

31 January, 2026

Scholarship Application Portal

View details of McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship Program

ScholarshipBob Partnership
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