Schedule a Consultation

We're here to help with the application process. Schedule an appointment with a graduate fellowships advisor to discuss your GRFP application today.

Access Sample Materials

Look through the Grad Success Center's library of past GRFP applications (HawkID and password required).

Letter of Recommendation Resouces

Find tips and suggestions for writing or asking for the strongest possible letters of recommendation.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is open to graduate students in research-based Master’s or doctoral programs in chemistry, computer & information sciences, engineering, geosciences, life sciences, materials research, mathematical sciences, physics & astronomy, psychology, social sciences, and STEM education & learning research.  Fellows receive 3 years of support with a $37,000 stipend and a $16,000 cost of education allowance each year.  University of Iowa graduate students applicants are also eligible for the Fellowship Incentive Program ($250 for applying if feedback from both a faculty advisor and fellowships advisor is obtained before submitting to NSF—full details on webpage).

KEY COMPONENTS

Eligibility:  Please see the official NSF GRFP eligibility information for Fall 2025, which has been recently revised. Briefly, eligibility is determined by discipline, degree program, citizenship, program stage, and research topic.

Application components are described more extensively at the NSF GRFP page. Briefly, the main components are:

  • Personal, Relevant Background and Future Goals Statement (3 pages, single-spaced)
  • Graduate Research Plan Statement (2 pages, single-spaced)
  • Reference letters (3 minimum, 5 maximum)
  • Transcripts
  • Follow all formatting instructions in the program solicitation exactly!