The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is a leading supporter of the humanities and arts in higher education.
The Mellon Foundation Scholarship offers a range of scholarship opportunities for students and scholars across various levels and disciplines.
Whether you’re an undergraduate pursuing a humanities degree or an experienced researcher looking for postdoctoral support, the Mellon Foundation might be just what you need.
About the Mellon Foundation Scholarship
The Mellon Foundation Scholarship includes a large number of programs with each catering to specific academic goals and career stages. Some examples include:
- Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship (MMUF): This program supports underrepresented students pursuing humanities degrees at select US institutions. It provides financial assistance, mentoring, and research opportunities, preparing participants for graduate study and careers in academia.
- Turning the Tide Masters Scholarship: Offered in partnership with Stellenbosch University in South Africa, this scholarship supports master’s students in fields like history, literature, and philosophy, with a focus on social justice and public good.
- Andrew W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowships: These fellowships provide funding and mentorship to scholars in the early stages of their careers, allowing them to pursue research and teaching excellence in the humanities and social sciences.
There are still many other options and the scholarship opportunities they provide may vary depending on your academic level, research interests, and institutional affiliations.
It’s important to research and identify the program that is most in line with your unique aspirations.
Mellon Foundation Scholarship Application Form
The application process for each scholarship program is distinct, with specific deadlines and requirements. However, some general principles apply:
- Eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility criteria for your chosen program. These often involve academic qualifications, research interests, career goals, and sometimes specific demographic factors.
- Application Portal: Most of these programs use online application portals. Locate the relevant portal on the official Mellon Foundation website or the website of the Stellenbosch University.
- Required Documents: The application packages require transcripts, letters of recommendation, research proposals, personal statements, and other supporting documents. Ensure you meet all submission requirements before the deadline.
- Application Deadlines: The deadlines for scholarship applications are very different. Pay close attention to the specific deadlines for your chosen program and submit your application well in advance to avoid disqualification.
Mellon Foundation Scholarship Requirements
While eligibility criteria differ between programs, some general requirements are prevalent:
- Academic Excellence: Demonstrated academic achievement through strong transcripts, awards, and relevant coursework is highly required.
- Research Potential: Applicants should present a well-defined research proposal or demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing scholarly work in the humanities.
- Statement of Purpose: A strong personal statement outlining your academic goals, research aspirations, and alignment with the program’s objectives is essential.
- Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or other individuals familiar with your academic abilities and potential.
Remember that specific requirements may change so always consult the official program guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Mellon Foundation Scholarship Closing Date
As mentioned earlier, application deadlines vary considerably depending on the specific program. Some programs have rolling admissions, while others follow strict deadline cycles.
The most recent application cycle ended on 27 October 2023 after an extension.
You have to visit the official website of your chosen program to access the most recent deadline information. Missing a deadline could disqualify your application, so stay informed and plan accordingly.
To make any further inquiries, you can contact the foundation through email at: [email protected].