Difference Between Fellowship And Scholarship

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Are you trying to decide between applying for a fellowship or a scholarship, but aren’t quite sure what sets them apart? You’re not alone. Each year, thousands of students and professionals search for academic funding, and many mistakenly assume fellowship and scholarship are the same thing.

While both offer financial support, the difference between a fellowship and a scholarship lies in their purpose, eligibility criteria, funding structure, and long-term benefits. Understanding this distinction is essential, especially if you’re planning to apply for graduate school, research programs, or international study opportunities.

Scholarships typically support tuition costs for undergraduate or postgraduate education and are often based on academic achievement or financial need. Fellowships, on the other hand, are merit-based opportunities that fund academic research, professional training, or leadership development, and can include generous stipends, mentorship, and even career placements.

What Is a Fellowship?

A fellowship is a prestigious, merit-based funding opportunity awarded to individuals, typically graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, or early-career professionals, to support advanced academic study, independent research, or professional development.

Unlike scholarships, which primarily focus on covering tuition fees, fellowships often go beyond financial aid by offering stipends, research grants, and opportunities for hands-on experience in specific fields. These programs are commonly available in areas such as science, public health, technology, policy, education, and the arts, and are designed to nurture the next generation of experts and leaders.

Fellowships are generally awarded based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to a particular discipline or cause. In many cases, recipients are expected to contribute to ongoing research, teach undergraduate classes, or complete a specialized project during the fellowship period. The duration of a fellowship can vary, ranging from a few months to as long as one to three years, depending on the nature of the program.

Beyond funding, fellowships offer valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and career advancement, making them a transformative stepping stone for individuals looking to deepen their expertise or make a meaningful impact in their field.

What Is a Scholarship?

A scholarship is a monetary award granted to students to offset the cost of their education, covering items such as tuition, books, fees, and sometimes housing. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them one of the most sought-after forms of educational funding.

They are sponsored by a wide range of entities, including universities, government agencies, nonprofit foundations, corporations, and community groups, and can target virtually every academic field, level of study, and demographic category. While some scholarships are one-time payments, many are renewable, allowing recipients to receive funding for multiple years provided they continue to meet the award’s conditions.

Eligibility criteria vary widely, but scholarships are typically based on academic merit, financial need, special talents, or specific demographic characteristics (such as country of origin, gender, or field of study). Award committees may look for a strong GPA, standardized-test scores, leadership roles, athletic performance, artistic portfolios, community service, or essays demonstrating personal resilience and goals.

Scholarships generally cover a single academic year or the full duration of a program, though recipients may need to reapply or maintain certain academic standards to renew the award. Beyond the financial relief, scholarships can confer prestige, expand professional networks, and strengthen résumés, providing both immediate and long-term benefits to a student’s educational and career trajectory.

Difference between Fellowship and Scholarship

The key difference between fellowships and scholarships lies in their purpose, structure, and eligibility criteria. Fellowships are typically merit-based funding opportunities awarded to graduate students, researchers, or professionals to support advanced study, research, or professional development. They often include responsibilities such as teaching, research, or project work, and are usually aimed at individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, or expertise in a specific field.

Scholarships, on the other hand, are primarily designed to support a student’s education by covering tuition and related expenses, and are often awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, athletic or artistic talent, or demographic background.

While both offer financial aid, fellowships are generally more competitive, come with higher expectations, and cater to a more specialized audience, whereas scholarships are more accessible to a broader student population across all levels of study.

Criteria	Scholarship	Fellowship
Purpose	Support tuition or studies	Support research, graduate study, or development
Eligibility	High school, undergrad, grad students	Grad students, researchers, professionals
Selection Basis	Academic merit, need, or specific background	Academic/professional merit and project proposals
Duration	Often tied to academic semesters or years	Fixed period; sometimes includes work/research
Obligations	No extra responsibilities	May require teaching, research, or service
Funding Coverage	Tuition, books, sometimes living expenses	Stipend, research costs, travel, and living support

Fellowship Examples

1. Rhodes Fellowship UK

Program duration: 2 Years (with 1 extra year possible extension)

Type of Fellowship: Government/Trust-Funded Fellowship

Level of study: Postgraduate (Master’s or Second Undergraduate Degree)

Eligibility: Citizenship in one of the Rhodes-eligible countries, completion of an undergraduate degree, and fulfillment of age criteria (usually 18–24 years)

Requirements: Outstanding academic achievement (minimum GPA equivalent of 3.7 or First Class Honours), proven leadership skills, strong moral character, commitment to service, and physical vigor. Applicants must secure admission to the University of Oxford.

The Rhodes Fellowship is one of the oldest and most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the UK for international students. It enables talented young leaders from across the globe to study at the University of Oxford, offering a transformative academic and personal experience. Rhodes fellows are selected not just for their intellect, but also for their character, leadership potential, and commitment to improving the lives of others. The program encourages students to engage in dialogue, debate, and research aimed at tackling global challenges.

Institution: University of Oxford

Location: Oxford, England

Deadline: Varies by country (usually between July and October annually)

Award amount: Full university and college fees, annual stipend (approx. £18,180/year), visa and health surcharge, economy-class airfare to and from the UK, and funding for settling in and study-related travel

Where to apply: https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/

Application process: Online application including personal statement, academic transcript, curriculum vitae, and a minimum of five to eight letters of recommendation. Shortlisted candidates are invited to a panel interview (and in some cases, a social engagement) before final selection.

2. Chevening Fellowship UK

Program duration: 1 Year

Type of Fellowship: Government-Funded Fellowship

Level of study: Postgraduate (Master’s degree)

Eligibility: Must be a citizen of a Chevening-eligible country, hold an undergraduate degree, and have at least two years (2,800 hours) of work experience

Requirements: A minimum of a 2:1 honours degree or equivalent (GPA 3.5–3.7), English language proficiency, strong leadership potential, and at least one unconditional offer from a UK university

The Chevening Fellowship is a prestigious and fully funded UK government scholarship aimed at empowering outstanding emerging leaders from around the world to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. The program values individuals with a strong academic background, clear career vision, and the ability to bring about positive change in their home countries. With no restrictions on field of study, the Chevening program attracts candidates from a wide range of professional and academic disciplines.

Chevening places a strong emphasis on networking, leadership development, and global collaboration, creating a community of global change-makers. Scholars gain access not only to top UK universities but also to a vibrant network of professionals, events, and long-term career opportunities across the globe.

Institution: Multiple UK universities like Brunel University, Cranfield University, Durham University, Newcastle University, etc.

Location: Across the United Kingdom

Deadline: 5 November 2025

Award amount: Full tuition fees, monthly living stipend, travel costs, arrival and departure allowances, visa fees, and contribution to the cost of TB testing (if required)

Where to apply: https://www.chevening.org/apply/

Application process: Online application including personal statement, academic documents, references, and work experience details. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at a British embassy or high commission.

3. Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship

Program duration: 1–2 Years (during MBA program)

Type of fellowship: Corporate-Funded Fellowship

Level of study: Postgraduate (MBA level)

Eligibility: First-year MBA students in the U.S. who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, strong leadership, and a commitment to diversity

Requirements: Admission into a top-tier MBA program, resume, academic excellence, interest in investment banking or financial services, and alignment with Goldman Sachs’ diversity and inclusion values

The Goldman Sachs MBA Fellowship is a highly competitive program designed to support and mentor diverse MBA students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, who aspire to build a career in the financial industry. This fellowship offers significant financial support, early access to internship opportunities, and a chance to join the firm as a full-time associate after graduation.

In addition to the financial award, fellows are paired with mentors and have the opportunity to participate in networking events, professional development programs, and summer internships. The program is not just about funding, it’s a long-term investment in leadership, career acceleration, and inclusive excellence within Goldman Sachs.

Institution: Partnered U.S. MBA programs like Harvard Business School, The Wharton School , etc.

Location: United States (with internships typically in New York, Chicago, or San Francisco)

Deadline: Typically during MBA recruiting cycle (October–December for summer internship consideration)

Award amount: Up to $35,000 upon acceptance of summer internship; an additional $40,000 upon full-time offer acceptance (totaling up to $75,000), plus internship salary

Where to apply: https://www.goldmansachs.com/careers/students/programs/americas/mba-fellowship.html

Application process: Resume submission, online application, interviews, and invitation to interview for a summer associate internship position at Goldman Sachs

4. UNESCO Fellowships Programme

Program duration: Varies (usually 1–12 months depending on the project and field)

Type of fellowship: International, Governmental, and Institutional Fellowship

Level of study: Graduate/Postgraduate/Professional (depending on program)

Eligibility: Citizens of UNESCO Member States; typically young researchers, educators, or professionals in relevant fields

Requirements: A completed degree in a related field (e.g., education, science, culture, communication), relevant work or academic experience, strong project proposal, fluency in working languages (English or French)

The UNESCO Fellowships Programme aims to build capacity and advance education, science, culture, and communication across the globe. These fellowships provide talented individuals from developing countries with opportunities for advanced training, research, and professional development in UNESCO’s priority areas. Fellows work on development-oriented projects in collaboration with universities, research institutions, and partner organizations.

UNESCO fellowships often promote intercultural understanding, sustainability, gender equality, and inclusive development. They are especially beneficial for early- to mid-career professionals who wish to deepen their expertise while contributing to global progress. Some of the most popular fellowships under UNESCO include the UNESCO/Keizo Obuchi Research Fellowships and UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Engineering.

Institution: Varies (hosted by institutions in partnership with UNESCO; e.g., Polish universities, Japanese research bodies, etc.)

Location: Global (based on host country and field of study)

Deadline: Varies by program (commonly between March and May each year)

Award amount: Covers tuition, monthly stipend, travel costs, insurance, and accommodation depending on host and funding partner

Where to apply: https://www.unesco.org/en/fellowships

Application process: Submission through National Commissions or Permanent Delegations to UNESCO, including CV, academic credentials, letters of recommendation, and a detailed project proposal

5. Humboldt Research Fellowship (Germany)

Program duration: 6 to 24 months

Type of fellowship: Research Fellowship (Postdoctoral/Experienced Researchers)

Level of study: Postdoctoral and senior researchers

Eligibility: International researchers from all disciplines who have completed their PhD within the last 12 years

Requirements: Doctoral degree, strong academic track record, a well-structured research proposal, host agreement from a German academic institution, and proficiency in English or German

The Humboldt Research Fellowship, offered by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, is one of Germany’s most prestigious funding programs for researchers from across the globe. It enables highly qualified international scholars to carry out long-term research projects in collaboration with German host institutions.

There are two main tracks: Postdoctoral Fellowships for researchers within four years of completing their PhD, and Experienced Researcher Fellowships for those within twelve years. Fellows receive not just generous financial support, but also access to Germany’s robust research infrastructure, networking opportunities, and long-term alumni sponsorship. Research can be conducted in all academic fields, from natural sciences to humanities.

Institution: Any accredited research institution in Germany (host required)

Location: Germany

Deadline: Rolling applications (can be submitted at any time of year)

Award amount: Monthly stipend of €2,670 for postdocs and €3,170 for experienced researchers, plus travel allowance, language courses, and family benefits

Where to apply: https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/humboldt-research-fellowship

Application process: Online application including CV, research proposal, list of publications, invitation/host confirmation from a German researcher, and academic references

Scholarships examples

1. Gates Millennium Scholars Program (USA)

Program duration: Full undergraduate program (renewable through graduate studies in select fields)

Type of scholarship: Private-Funded (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation)

Level of study: Undergraduate (with graduate funding available in select areas)

Eligibility: U.S. citizens or legal residents who are African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian & Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American; high school seniors entering college for the first time; minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3; Pell Grant-eligible

Requirements: Strong academic record, leadership ability, community service involvement, and demonstrated financial need

The Gates Millennium Scholars Program (GMS) was established to provide outstanding minority students with an opportunity to complete an undergraduate education in any discipline, with continuing funding available for graduate degrees in select fields such as education, engineering, public health, library science, and mathematics. This highly competitive and fully funded scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and develop the next generation of leaders from underrepresented communities in the U.S.

Institution: Any accredited U.S. college or university

Location: United States (nationwide)

Deadline: Typically in January (2025 dates TBA)

Award amount: Full cost of attendance including tuition, fees, books, and living expenses

Where to apply: https://gmsp.org

Application process: Online application, recommendation forms, academic transcripts, and essays detailing leadership experience, educational goals, and community impact

2. American University Emerging Global Leader Scholarship (USA)

Program duration: 4 Years (Undergraduate Degree)

3. Holland Scholarship (Netherlands)

Program duration: 1–2 Years (Varies by program)

Type of scholarship: Government-Funded Scholarship

Level of study: Bachelor’s and Master’s

Eligibility: Non-European Economic Area (EEA) international students applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s program at participating Dutch higher education institutions

Requirements:

Must be applying for the first time to study in the Netherlands
Must meet specific institutional admission criteria
Strong academic background and motivation to study abroad
Letter of motivation is often required

The Holland Scholarship is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and several Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences. It is intended for talented and ambitious students from outside the EEA who want to do their bachelor’s or master’s degree in the Netherlands. While it is not a fully funded scholarship, it provides a generous one-time award to help offset initial study costs.

Institution: Over 40 participating Dutch universities (e.g., University of Amsterdam, Leiden University, Eindhoven University of Technology)

Location: Netherlands

Deadline: Typically between 1 February and 1 May 2025 (varies by institution)

Award amount: €5,000 (one-time payment in the first year of study; not renewable)

Where to apply: https://www.studyinholland.nl/finances/holland-scholarship

Application process: Apply directly through the participating university after applying for admission. A motivational letter and academic transcripts are typically required.

4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Program duration: Varies (Typically 2–4 years depending on the degree and institution)

Type of scholarship: Fully Funded, NGO-Funded Scholarship

Level of study: Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Master’s)

Eligibility:

Students from Sub-Saharan Africa
Economically disadvantaged but academically talented individuals
Commitment to giving back to their communities

Requirements:

Strong academic performance
Demonstrated leadership potential and service ethic
Admission into a partner university program
Varies slightly depending on the host institution’s criteria

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive scholarships to students from Sub-Saharan Africa, enabling them to pursue quality education at world-class universities. The scholarship not only covers tuition, living expenses, books, and travel but also includes mentorship, leadership development, and internship opportunities. Its mission is to build a community of future African leaders who will drive transformation in their communities.

Institution: Partner institutions include the University of Edinburgh, McGill University, Sciences Po, University of Cape Town, African Leadership University, and more

Location: Africa, Europe, North America (varies by partner university)

Deadline: Varies by institution and program; typically between October and March annually

Award amount: Fully funded — covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses

Where to apply: https://mastercardfdn.org/all/scholars/

Application process: Apply directly through the specific partner university. Each institution has its own application process, deadlines, and required documents such as essays, recommendation letters, and academic records.

Which One Should You Apply For?

If you’re an undergraduate or high school student seeking help paying for college, a scholarship is your go-to.
If you’re a graduate student or researcher looking to fund a specific project or gain professional experience, a fellowship is a better option.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between fellowships and scholarships is essential for students and professionals seeking financial support for their academic or career goals. While both offer funding opportunities, scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific talents and are geared toward covering tuition and educational expenses.

Fellowships, on the other hand, often support graduate-level studies, research, or professional development and may come with additional responsibilities such as teaching or conducting research. Each serves a unique purpose and caters to different stages of a learner’s journey.

By distinguishing between these two funding options, applicants can make more informed decisions and pursue the opportunity best suited to their aspirations. Whether you’re aiming to fund your undergraduate studies with a scholarship or advance your expertise through a fellowship, understanding eligibility, expectations, and benefits will help you target programs that align with your strengths and career plans.

In a world of increasing educational costs, making the right choice between a fellowship and a scholarship could be the key to unlocking academic and professional success.