National Fellowships and Awards: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

What are National Fellowships and Awards?

National fellowships are merit-based programs that provide external funding for students and recent alumni to pursue opportunities like research, study abroad, and public service. These opportunities are available to undergraduate and graduate students, dependent on the program.

All awards posted by the Office for National Fellowships and Awards are for U.S. Citizens, unless otherwise stated.

Why should I apply?

The application process can be very rewarding for those who commit themselves to the process. When applying for prestigious fellowships and awards, you will emerge with a more comprehensive understanding of your academic history and future academic and professional goals, as well as learning how to articulate your strengths. The essays written for fellowship and awards applications reach a level of proficiency that makes them the perfect option to adapt into graduate school application materials.

Often, students believe that only the top-performing students are eligible for fellowships and awards. While some do have GPA restrictions or look for specific experiences, many do not. Students from all backgrounds, majors, and interests are encouraged to look into the opportunities posted on this page to find the perfect program for them.

How do I apply?

It is important that you take your time to research the fellowship and awards opportunities available to you. Familiarize yourself with the institution offering the award, their mission statement, and their description of their ideal candidate. You want to match the description of their ideal candidate to your strengths.

Each fellowship or award program has a unique set of application requirements. They will start with an online application that collects personal information. Many programs require letters of recommendation from faculty members, as well as a personal statement and a Curriculum Vitae (CV)/resume. Some programs will require an interview with program staff.

Application Tips:

Requesting a Letter of Recommendation (LoR):

How many? - Many fellowship programs will tell you how many letters of recommendation they require. If there is no number stated, request 3 to 4 to be safe.
Who should write the letters? - Choose a faculty member that is aware of your strengths and abilities, preferably someone you have worked with previously.
When should I ask for the letter? - The earlier the better! Asking for a letter of recommendation when you are still working with the faculty member is best, as they will have a clear memory of your performance and your strengths. Make sure to give the faculty member enough time to write your letter of recommendation. You can share the sumbission instructions as the deadline approaches.
How do I ask for the letter? - Don't be afraid to ask! Many faculty members are used to writing letters for students. You may email your request, but some faculty members prefer to meet in person so that you can discuss your career plans. Consider offering an updated CV and your personal statement to help the faculty member write their letter. Remember to thank your letter writer!

Writing Your Personal Statement:

Your personal statement is one of the most important parts of a fellowship application. Some of these programs can be highly competitive, so personal statements can help to set you apart from the other candidates. Personal statements are an opportunity to showcase your personality, while persuading the program staff to choose you over the other candidates.

Review the requirements in the program application instructions. Often, they have guiding questions or a specific prompt. Your personal statement should not be reused word-for-word, the content should be tailored to each specific fellowship or award you are applying for. Think about the personal experiences throughout your life that have led you to this career path. Consider utilizing the NKU Writing Center to receive help and feedback on your personal statement.

As you begin writing, consider these guiding questions:

Who are you? How would you define yourself?
Why did you choose your major? What helped you make this decision?
What accomplishments are you most proud of?
Are there any moments in your life that pushed you in a certain direction?
What sets you apart from others?
What is the source for your motivation? What do you care about most?

Need Help or Have Questions? Contact Us:

Shauna Reilly

Assistant Provost for Experiential Learning

reillys3@nku.edu | 859.572.6593

GH 529

Office of National Fellowships and Awards

National Fellowships and Awards