McDonnell International Scholars Academy 2025: Fully Funded Graduate Fellowship at Washington University

The McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University in St. Louis is accepting applications for its prestigious fully funded graduate fellowship programme for the 2025-2026 academic year.

About the McDonnell Academy

The McDonnell International Scholars Academy is an endowed fellowship programme that unites exceptional graduate students from across the globe at one of America's top research universities.

Scholarship Benefits

This fully funded scholarship includes:

• Full tuition coverage
• Generous monthly stipend
• Professional development funding
• One-time relocation allowance
• Cultural enrichment trips to New York and Washington, D.C.
• Networking with scholars from 70+ academic programmes and 50+ international institutions

Eligibility Requirements

• Must apply to an eligible WashU doctoral or Master's degree programme
• Must have earned or plan to earn a bachelor's degree before July 2026
• All domestic and international applicants welcome
• Priority given to graduates of partner universities

Application Requirements

1. Personal Statement: 1,000 words or less explaining why you want to be a McDonnell Scholar and how it will enhance your career
2. Video: 2-minute recording addressing one of three provided prompts
3. Recommendation Letter: Preferably from someone not previously used for your academic application

Timeline

• Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
• Review: Mid to late February
• Virtual Interviews: February - early March
• Final Decisions: End of March (no later than mid-April)

Approximately 20-25 exceptional candidates are admitted each year.

How to Apply

1. Apply to your desired WashU graduate programme through the graduate application portal
2. Complete the McDonnell Academy application within the same portal
3. Submit all required materials before the deadline

For more information, visit mcdonnell.washu.edu/apply