National fellowships offer students unique opportunities to enhance their education through further research, study and diverse educational experiences. These programs are funded externally and typically take place outside of the University of San Diego. The National Fellowships Office at USD is dedicated to helping students learn, grow and develop, whatever the outcome of their application process.
USD’s National Fellowships Office is affiliated with The National Association of Fellowships Advisors (NAFA), which promotes educational, ethical and equitable fellowships practices.
Dr. Rhonda Harley
Meet the Director of National Fellowships
Are you interested in learning more about national fellowships? Meet with Dr. Rhonda Harley in BEC 117, to discover potential national fellowships that align with your goals.
Contact Dr. Harley at nationalfellowships@sandiego.edu to set up an appointment.
FEATURED FELLOWSHIPS
Rhodes Scholarship
Fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford for exceptional scholars who pair academic excellence with leadership, character, and a commitment to service. Open to multiple national constituencies; U.S. applicants apply through the American Rhodes process. Ideal for students seeking rigorous study and a global leadership network. Learn more.
Harry S. Truman Scholarship
The premier U.S. award for college juniors dedicated to public service leadership. Provides funding for graduate study plus training, mentoring, and pathways to federal opportunities. A strong fit for students driving impact in policy, education, health, environment, or justice—ready to turn campus leadership into national service. Learn more.
Marshall Scholarship
Funds graduate study in any discipline at any UK university for high-ability American students who show leadership and ambassadorial potential. Scholars join a vibrant U.S.–UK network while pursuing one to three years of advanced study and research. A great match for globally minded scholars ready to build transatlantic connections. Learn more.
Recent Fellowship Recipients
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Not to be confused with a scholarship for undergraduate studies, a fellowship is a national or international scholarship or grant that funds graduate education, research, English teaching, and/or critical language development. They may also recognize or fund undergraduate research, leadership and public service, or international diplomatic potential.
Application deadlines vary by fellowships and some require that you submit materials by a certain deadline to your institution (campus deadline) if nomination or endorsement is required. Some fellowships have fall deadlines and some have spring deadlines. Plan accordingly.
After you submit your statement of interest and any application materials USD requires, an advisor will meet with you to discuss your future goals and the application process. Additionally, you can review the specific fellowship’s website for information about the application process.
For more information on applying to specific fellowships, please make an appointment with Dr. Karen Shelby.
Review the fellowship guidelines carefully and make sure to read eligibility. Additionally, you can always reach out to our office for guidance.
Attend office hours, engage with your faculty, seek research opportunities, attend guest lectures or campus events to network. Professors want to get to know their students - take the initiative!
See the four year timeline for ideas. Ideally, fellowships planning starts early!
HELPFUL TIPS
Contact Us
National Fellowships Office
nationalfellowships@sandiego.edu