Fellowships for Undergraduate Students

Undergraduate students can benefit greatly from fellowship programs, which provide both financial support and invaluable opportunities for personal and professional development. Are you an undergraduate student looking for meaningful academic, research, or leadership opportunities, without the burden of financial stress?

Fellowships for undergraduate students offer more than just funding; they provide pathways to hands-on experience, mentorship, global travel, and access to elite academic or professional networks. Unlike typical scholarships that simply cover tuition, undergraduate fellowships are competitive, merit-based programs designed to enrich your educational journey through structured research, community engagement, internships, or summer programs.

Whether you’re exploring STEM, social sciences, the arts, or public service, there are fellowships tailored to your interests and ambitions. In this guide, we’ll break down what undergraduate fellowships are, why they matter, and how to find and apply for the ones that can launch your future.

Top 8 Fellowships for Undergraduate Students 

Securing a fellowship as an undergraduate student can be a transformative step in your academic and professional journey. These fellowships are designed to support high-achieving students who show promise in leadership, research, public service, or creative work.

Many of these programs not only provide financial support but also offer access to prestigious networks, mentorship, internships, and opportunities to study or work abroad. From STEM research and social impact to policy development and global exchange, these fellowships cover a wide range of fields and interests.

Below is a curated list of 8 top fellowships for undergraduate students, each offering unique benefits, eligibility criteria, and a platform to take your education beyond the classroom. Whether you’re a freshman planning ahead or a junior seeking summer funding, these fellowships can open doors to experiences that shape your future.

1. Truman Scholarship

Program duration: Typically covers the final year of undergraduate study and funding for graduate studies

Type of scholarship: Government-Funded Scholarship

Level of study: Undergraduate (leading to graduate-level support)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens who are full-time college juniors with a strong commitment to public service

Requirements: High academic achievement (typically top 25% of class), leadership experience, and a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in public service, government, nonprofit, or advocacy sectors

The Truman Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based award that recognizes and supports the next generation of public service leaders in the United States. Named in honor of President Harry S. Truman, this scholarship is more than financial aid; it is a powerful network and a vote of confidence in students dedicated to serving the public good. Each year, the program selects promising college juniors who have shown exceptional leadership abilities, academic excellence, and a commitment to making a difference through public service. Truman Scholars receive funding for graduate or professional school, leadership training, and access to career and internship opportunities in public service. It is one of the most competitive and transformative scholarships for students passionate about civic engagement and policy change.

Institution: Various U.S. universities (recipient must attend an accredited graduate school)

Location: United States

Deadline: 5 February 2025 (for most institutions; varies slightly by school)

Award amount: Up to $30,000 for graduate studies, plus leadership training, internships, and mentoring

Where to apply: https://www.truman.gov

Application process: Institutional nomination required, followed by a detailed application including policy proposal, essays, recommendation letters, and an interview for finalists.

2. Coca-Cola Scholars Program

Program Duration: 4 Years (Undergraduate)

Type of Scholarship: Merit-based, Private Organization Scholarship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (for graduating high school seniors entering college)

Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors attending a U.S.-accredited high school, planning to pursue a degree at an accredited U.S. post-secondary institution

Requirements: Demonstrated leadership, academic excellence (typically a GPA of 3.0 or higher), commitment to service, and strong extracurricular involvement

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program is one of the most prestigious corporate-sponsored scholarships in the United States. Each year, it awards 150 exceptional high school seniors who exemplify leadership, academic achievement, and a passion for making a difference in their communities. This highly competitive scholarship provides substantial financial support and access to a lifelong network of scholars who go on to become change-makers in diverse fields. It is not only a financial award but also a platform for continued growth, development, and leadership.

Institution: Any accredited U.S. college or university

Location: United States

Deadline: September 30, 2025

Award Amount: $20,000

Where to Apply: https://www.coca-colascholarsfoundation.org

Application Process: Online application, academic and extracurricular review, semi-finalist essays and recommendations, interviews for finalists.

3. The Posse Foundation Scholarship

Program Duration: 4 Years (Undergraduate)

Type of Scholarship: Leadership-based, Private Organization Scholarship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (for high school seniors entering college)

Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors nominated by their high school or a community-based organization in a Posse city

Requirements: Strong academic potential, leadership experience, teamwork skills, and the ability to succeed in a rigorous college environment

The Posse Foundation Scholarship is a unique, full-tuition leadership scholarship that identifies, recruits, and trains high school seniors with extraordinary academic and leadership potential. Students are placed in supportive, multicultural “posses” of 10 students to attend partner colleges and universities across the United States. The Posse model is built on the idea that a small group of students, a posse, can serve as a support system to help one another succeed academically and personally throughout college. With a network of prestigious partner institutions, the program is dedicated to diversifying leadership in the U.S.

Institution: Over 60 Posse partner colleges and universities (e.g., Boston University, University of Michigan, Vanderbilt University, etc.)

Location: United States

Deadline: Nominations typically open in May and close in early fall 2025 (varies by city)

Award Amount: Full tuition for four years

Where to Apply: https://www.possefoundation.org/

Application Process: Students must be nominated by their high school or community-based organization. Once nominated, they participate in the Dynamic Assessment Process (DAP), a unique, nontraditional interview process that identifies students with exceptional leadership and academic potential.

4. Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship Program

Program Duration: 7 Weeks (Summer)

Type of Fellowship: Graduate School Preparation Program

Level of Study: Undergraduate (Rising Seniors)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, DACA recipients, and international students enrolled in U.S. institutions; must be rising college seniors at the time of the program

Requirements: Demonstrated commitment to public service, academic excellence (minimum GPA of 3.0), and interest in pursuing a Master’s degree in public policy, public administration, international affairs, or a related field

The PPIA Fellowship Program is a highly selective initiative aimed at preparing undergraduate students for advanced degrees and careers in public service. Central to the program is the Junior Summer Institute (JSI), a rigorous seven-week summer program hosted at top public policy schools across the United States. Participants receive intensive training in economics, statistics, policy analysis, and leadership development. Beyond the summer institute, fellows gain access to a robust alumni network, ongoing career support, and financial assistance for graduate studies at consortium member institutions. The program emphasizes diversity and seeks to empower students from underrepresented backgrounds to become leaders in public policy and international affairs.

Institution: Various partner universities, including Princeton University, University of Michigan, Carnegie Mellon University, University of California, Berkeley, and Harvard University

Location: United States

Deadline: November 1, 2025

Award Amount: Full tuition for the summer institute, housing, meals, travel expenses, books, a stipend, and a minimum $5,000 scholarship for graduate study at a consortium school

Where to Apply: https://www.ppiaprogram.org/fellowship

Application Process: Online application including demographic information, academic transcripts, a resume, two personal statements, and one letter of recommendation. Applicants may also submit an optional essay addressing any extenuating circumstances.

5. Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Undergraduate Scholarship

Program Duration: 1 Year (Undergraduate)

Type of Scholarship: Merit-based, Government-Funded Scholarship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (Sophomores and Juniors)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. permanent residents who are college sophomores or juniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree full-time during the 2025–2026 academic year. Applicants should have a demonstrated commitment to careers related to the environment, tribal public policy, or Native American health care.

Requirements: Strong academic record, demonstrated leadership and public service, and a commitment to issues related to the environment or Native American communities. Native American and Alaska Native applicants must provide documentation of tribal affiliation.

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship honors the legacies of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall, whose careers significantly impacted Native American self-governance, health care, and environmental stewardship. This prestigious scholarship recognizes college sophomores and juniors who have demonstrated a commitment to careers in the environment, tribal public policy, or Native American health care. In 2025, the Udall Foundation anticipates awarding 55 scholarships of $7,000 each. Scholars also gain access to the Udall Alumni Network and participate in a mandatory Scholar Orientation, fostering a community of future leaders dedicated to public service and policy.

Institution: Any accredited U.S. college or university

Location: United States

Deadline: March 5, 2025 (Note: Institutional deadlines may be earlier; applicants should check with their faculty representative)

Award Amount: Up to $7,000 for eligible academic expenses, including tuition, fees, books, and room and board

Where to Apply: https://www.udall.gov/OurPrograms/Scholarship/Scholarship.aspx

Application Process: Applicants must be nominated by their institution’s Udall faculty representative. The application includes an 11-question form, an 800-word essay on the Udall legacy, college transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Additional documentation is required for applicants in tribal public policy and health care categories.

6. Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence

Program Duration: 1 Year (Undergraduate)

Type of Scholarship: Merit-based, Corporate-sponsored Scholarship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (Sophomores and Juniors)

Eligibility: U.S. or Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are Black, Hispanic/Latinx, or Native American; enrolled full-time in an accredited college or university; pursuing a summer internship at Goldman Sachs

Requirements: Minimum GPA of 3.4; demonstrated leadership, academic excellence, and interest in financial services; must accept a Goldman Sachs summer internship offer to receive the scholarship

The Goldman Sachs Scholarship for Excellence (SFE) is a prestigious program designed to recognize and support outstanding undergraduate students from underrepresented backgrounds who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. The scholarship aims to promote diversity within the financial services industry by providing recipients with financial support and professional development opportunities. Awardees receive a monetary scholarship toward tuition and academic expenses and are offered a paid summer internship at Goldman Sachs, providing invaluable exposure to the firm’s operations and culture.

Institution: Any accredited U.S. or Canadian college or university

Location: United States and Canada

Deadline: January 1, 2026

Award Amount: Up to $15,000 toward tuition and academic expenses

Where to Apply: https://www.goldmansachs.com/careers/students/programs/americas/scholarship-for-excellence.html

Application Process: Submit an online application, including a resume, academic transcripts, and a personal statement or presentation aligning with Goldman Sachs’ business principles. Applicants are encouraged to apply concurrently for a Goldman Sachs summer internship, as the scholarship is contingent upon accepting an internship offer.

7. Washington Leadership Program (WLP)

Program Duration: 8 Weeks (Summer)

Type of Program: Leadership Development and Public Service Internship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (Sophomores and Juniors)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens or permanent residents of South Asian descent; must have completed at least one year of college by the program’s start

Requirements: Demonstrated leadership potential, commitment to public service, strong academic record, and interest in U.S. government and policy

The Washington Leadership Program (WLP) is a prestigious initiative aimed at developing the next generation of South Asian American leaders in public service. Since 1995, WLP has provided undergraduate students with the opportunity to intern in Congressional offices or federal agencies in Washington, D.C., while participating in a structured leadership curriculum.

The program includes a weekend orientation, followed by an eight-week internship, during which scholars attend evening events featuring prominent South Asian American public service leaders, policy discussions, and professional development workshops. Upon completion, participants join an active alumni network of nearly 200 individuals engaged in diverse fields such as law, medicine, business, academia, and government. 

Institution: Various Congressional offices and federal agencies in Washington, D.C.

Location: Washington, D.C., United States

Deadline: January 9, 2025

Award Amount: $2,000 stipend upon completion; additional resources available for those with financial need

Where to Apply: https://www.thewlp.com/

Application Process: Applicants must submit an online application, including a resume, unofficial transcript, personal statement, and one letter of recommendation. Finalists will be contacted for a telephone interview, and all applicants will be notified of final selections in February 2025.  

8. Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program – Summer 2025

Program Duration: 10–12 Weeks (Summer)

Type of Program: Paid Federal Government Internship

Level of Study: Undergraduate (Sophomores and Above)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program; undergraduates must be at least rising sophomores by Summer 2025

Requirements: Minimum GPA of 2.5; demonstrated interest in public service; commitment to completing a full-time internship

The Future Leaders in Public Service Internship Program, administered by the Partnership for Public Service, offers undergraduate students a unique opportunity to gain professional experience within the federal government. Interns are placed in various federal agencies, where they contribute to meaningful projects aligned with their academic backgrounds and career interests. The program emphasizes diversity and inclusion, aiming to build a pipeline of talented individuals committed to public service careers. Participants receive a competitive stipend, engage in professional development activities, and have opportunities to network with federal employees and fellow interns.

Institution: Various U.S. federal agencies

Location: Washington, D.C., and other locations; some positions may offer remote options

Deadline: May 2, 2025.

Award Amount: Stipend amounts vary based on agency, position, and full-time/part-time status

Where to Apply: https://gogovernment.org/fellowship/future-leaders-in-public-service-internship-program/future-leaders-in-public-service-internship-program-summer-2025/

Application Process: Applicants must submit an online application, including a resume, academic transcript, and responses to essay questions. Optional letters of recommendation may be submitted. Finalists will undergo virtual interviews, and selected interns must complete a background check before placement. 

Pro Tips for Winning Competitive Undergraduate Scholarships and Fellowships

Each year, top organizations across the U.S., from Coca-Cola to Goldman Sachs, offer fully funded or prestigious scholarships to high-achieving undergraduates. These fellowships aren’t just about money; they open doors to leadership training, career networks, internships, and policy influence.

Whether you’re aiming for the Truman Scholarship or the PPIA Fellowship, here are smart, strategic tips to help you stand out in the application process:

1. Apply Early—and Strategically

Unlike standard financial aid, these fellowships often have early deadlines, some as early as May to October for programs that start the next academic year. Many also require nominations or internal reviews from your school. Start tracking deadlines a year in advance. Mark internal and external application dates, and start prepping your essays and resume during your sophomore or early junior year.

2. Understand the Mission of Each Fellowship

Every scholarship or fellowship serves a specific purpose; Truman supports public service leaders, PPIA promotes diversity in public policy, Coca-Cola values community change-makers, etc. Therefore, try to tailor your application to reflect the values and goals of the scholarship provider. Align your career goals and personal experiences to what they are looking to support.

3. Build a Resume of Purpose, Not Just Prestige

These scholarships aren’t just GPA contests. They look for students who show impact, leadership, and direction. Seek leadership roles on campus, commit to long-term service projects, and pursue internships that reflect your passion. Quality and consistency matter more than quantity.

4. Make Your Personal Statement Personal

Your essay should go beyond listing accomplishments. It should tell a compelling story, why you care, what drives you, and how this scholarship fits into your future. The most successful applicants show authenticity, reflection, and vision. Don’t just show what you’ve done, explain why it matters.

5. Use Campus Resources to Your Advantage

Many fellowships require endorsements or recommendations. Schools often have dedicated fellowship advisors to guide you. So try to connect with your school’s honors college, writing center, or national scholarships office. These mentors often know what selection committees look for and can provide inside insight.

6. Choose Recommenders Who Know You Deeply

Don’t just pick the most “impressive” professor or boss; choose people who have witnessed your growth, your passion, and your leadership firsthand.

Pro Tip: Give them enough time (at least 3–4 weeks), share your resume and draft essays, and explain why you’re applying so they can personalize the letter.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Reapply or Try Again

Not everyone wins on the first try, and that’s okay. Many successful scholars were rejected once (or twice!) before securing their dream fellowship. Most undergraduate programs allow reapplications or provide similar opportunities through other channels (e.g., internships, related awards).