Fellowships: What They Are And How To Get One

In 2026, fellowships remain a vital avenue for graduate and postgraduate individuals seeking to further their education while receiving financial support.

Beyond providing stipends, fellowships offer numerous advantages for those aiming to specialize in their fields, making them an appealing option for aspiring scholars and professionals.

This article covers everything you need to know about fellowships, including their definition, various types, and reasons to pursue one.

Key Takeaways:

• Though sometimes used in job descriptions to indicate entry-level positions with training, genuine fellowships function as advanced scholarships aimed at supporting continued academic study.

• Fellowships come in various forms, including research, medical, and teaching fellowships.

• These programs typically offer financial support and immersive hands-on experience, critical for skill development.

What Is a Fellowship?

In essence, fellowships are programs that provide funding and support for ongoing education across various disciplines.

The benefits of an academic fellowship can vary, but they generally serve as awards that subsidize advanced study. Fellowships are akin to advanced scholarships, awarded based on merit.

While primarily associated with graduate studies, the term “fellowship” has expanded to encompass other contexts. For example, some entry-level roles may use the term to suggest substantial on-the-job training.

Generally, fellowships refer to financial awards aimed at individuals with a college degree who are pursuing further specialization. These fellows might currently be in graduate school or already hold advanced degrees, often focusing on highly specialized subjects.

Fellowships are typically awarded through a competitive application and interview process, emphasizing academic achievements. The intent is to advance knowledge in specific fields by supporting qualified scholars.

Support from fellowships can include partial or full tuition coverage, stipends for projects, travel, research, or living expenses.

How to Get a Fellowship

Fellowships are awarded to candidates demonstrating significant potential to contribute meaningfully to their fields.

To secure a fellowship, candidates must exhibit strong dedication and motivation. The sponsoring organization seeks individuals who can meet the rigorous demands of their fellowship programs.

Start your search for fellowships as early as possible. Keep in mind that application deadlines often range from six months to a year prior to the fellowship’s start date. Allow ample time to gather the necessary supporting materials for your application.

Different Types of Fellowships

The term “fellowship” encompasses various monetary awards, with the specifics differing based on the type of fellowship. Here are some common categories:

• Research Fellowships: A research fellow conducts academic research on behalf of a university or research institution, either independently or under supervision.

  Research fellowships are typically advanced positions filled by individuals with doctoral degrees (Ph.D. or equivalent) or substantial relevant work experience. These roles may be temporary or permanent.

  People may also refer to a monetary academic grant as a research fellowship, which provides a stipend for conducting personal research.

• Medical Fellowships: This specialized fellowship category is designed for physicians and highly trained medical professionals.

  During a medical fellowship, doctors practice and study a specialized field under expert guidance, building on their foundational knowledge (e.g., a cardiologist may complete a fellowship to become a pediatric cardiologist).

  Medical fellowships represent the pinnacle of education and training for physicians, undertaken after completing medical school, obtaining a license, and finishing residency training.

• Teaching Fellowships: Teaching fellows are typically graduate students who serve as primary instructors for undergraduate courses at higher education institutions.

  The responsibilities of a teaching fellow can vary greatly by institution, but generally include lecturing, teaching, and engaging in academic research.

  Teaching fellowships share similarities with research fellowships, with the primary distinction being that teaching fellows are usually graduate students while research fellows are often post-doctoral.

  In some contexts, “teaching fellow” may also refer to assistants in secondary education.

• Fellowship Training Programs: These fellowships often serve as entry-level training positions, designed to equip individuals with the skills and experience needed in their industry. They may lead to permanent positions or stand alone as independent programs.

  Many of these fellowships offer professional development alongside financial grants or tuition forgiveness.

• Fellowships of Prestigious Membership: These fellowships signify membership in a learned society, academic community, or professional association.

  Achieving fellowship status is often reserved for highly accomplished members and is typically seen as an honor. In some organizations, all members may be referred to as fellows.

  Fellowships are awarded based on a member’s achievements or contributions to the organization’s goals.

How Long Do Fellowships Last?

The duration of fellowships varies widely depending on the specific terms associated with each program.

A fellowship can last from a few weeks to three years, although professional fellowships typically range from a few months to a year and are considered full-time roles.

Some fellowships, particularly research fellow positions, are permanent, with fellows often promoted to higher-ranking roles within the organization.

Additionally, summer fellowships are available that occur exclusively during the summer months.

Why Pursue a Fellowship?

1. To Gain Hands-On Experience: Fellowships provide unique and intensive experiences, equipping you with practical skills needed in your professional field. Employers often value these experiences highly, making candidates stand out in competitive job markets.

2. To Develop Professional Skills: Fellowship programs are excellent avenues for professional development. You will acquire a skill set directly applicable to future job roles, which may include grant writing, public speaking, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

3. To Build a Professional Network: Fellowships foster connections between emerging scholars and established leaders in the field, offering invaluable networking opportunities. Many fellows secure job offers directly or through referrals during their fellowship experience.

4. For Financial Support and Other Benefits: While fellowship stipends may not make you wealthy, they provide essential financial assistance. Fellows can expect stipends ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 or more, along with potential benefits like housing and health insurance.

5. To Pursue Research: Many individuals apply for fellowships to continue their research endeavors, as they provide funding and enhance the prestige of the projects.

6. To Learn While Traveling: Numerous fellowships occur in international locations, offering a chance to immerse yourself in different cultures while studying your specialty. Securing a job abroad can be challenging, but a fellowship often facilitates this process, offering support for relocation and necessary resources.

7. For Tax Benefits: In the U.S., income earned from fellowships may not be subject to income tax for citizens and permanent residents participating in U.S.-based fellowships, although international students may face a 14% tax rate on their earnings.

8. To Build Confidence: Acceptance into a prestigious fellowship can significantly boost your confidence in your abilities. Participation can also prepare you for leadership roles or more competitive positions after the fellowship concludes.

How Hard Is It to Get a Fellowship?

Fellowships are highly competitive, and securing one is no small feat. The selection process involves a comprehensive application, necessitating a standout resume.

Fellowship applications resemble graduate school applications, requiring a detailed resume, official transcripts, a personal essay, strong letters of recommendation, and additional materials.

For independent research proposals, you’ll need to submit a well-structured project proposal along with your application and references. Successful applicants typically progress to an individual or group interview with the fellowship committee.

Fellowship committees prioritize candidates with exceptional academic records and achievements, but they also seek qualities like community service commitment, dedication to excellence, and relevant research experience.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.