Study in the US Fully Funded: The McDonnell International Scholarship for Master’s and PhD

If you are ready to take the next step in your academic and professional career, consider applying to the McDonnell International Scholars Academy. This transformational experience will equip you with the skills, knowledge, and network to lead on a global scale.

The McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University in St. Louis offers an unparalleled opportunity for those aspiring to become global leaders. This prestigious fellowship program is designed to nurture culturally and academically diverse leaders who are equipped to tackle the world’s most complex challenges.

The McDonnell Academy is more than just a fellowship, it’s a community. It brings together scholars from all corners of the globe to drive positive and lasting change through collaborative, interdisciplinary research. The program emphasizes leadership development, cultural competency, and social responsibility, preparing scholars to lead with a global mindset.

Joining the McDonnell Academy means becoming part of a distinguished network of global leaders who are passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re driven by a desire to solve international challenges or to advance in your field with a broader, more inclusive perspective, the McDonnell Academy provides the platform and resources to help you achieve your goals.

The McDonnell Academy seeks scholars who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to global engagement. The program is open to prospective graduate and professional degree students planning to attend Washington University in St. Louis. Priority is given to international applicants from the Academy’s Partner Universities, but the fellowship is open to all eligible candidates worldwide.

About the Fully Funded McDonnell Fellowship Scholarship

• Country of study: US
• Level of study: Postgraduate Studies
• Institution: Washington University
• Funding Type: Fully funding
• Required Language: English
• Eligible Countries: All Countries.

The 2025-26 cycle will open in September 2024. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, as the application deadline is January 31 at 11:59 pm CST.

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What the Fully Funded McDonnell Scholarship Covers

McDonnell Scholars receive a comprehensive financial package that includes:

• Full Tuition Coverage: Scholars receive full tuition support, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies and research without the burden of financial stress.
• Monthly Living Stipend: A generous monthly stipend is provided to cover living expenses, ensuring that scholars can comfortably sustain themselves throughout their time at Washington University in St. Louis.
• Relocation and Travel Allowances: To ease the transition to campus life, scholars are given a relocation expense allowance. Additionally, a travel allowance is provided to support academic and professional travel, enabling scholars to engage in global opportunities and broaden their perspectives.
• Private Cohort Housing: Scholars are offered the opportunity to live in modern, private housing designed to foster a close-knit community. Located within walking distance of the campus, this housing allows for a seamless integration into university life and the local St. Louis community.
• Multifaceted Instruction: The program features specialized instruction that cultivates the key attributes of a McDonnell Scholar: a global mindset, strong leadership abilities, and a commitment to the community. This educational approach is tailored to develop well-rounded leaders who can navigate and address complex global issues.
• Cultural Experiences: Scholars participate in enriching cultural experiences, such as cohort trips to significant U.S. cities like Washington D.C. and New York. These excursions are designed to provide insights into global policy, leadership, and cultural dynamics. Additionally, scholars have the opportunity to engage in international research symposia, where they can present their work and collaborate with peers and experts from around the world.
• Dedicated Faculty Mentorship: Each scholar is paired with dedicated faculty mentors who provide personalized guidance and support. These mentors are committed to the academic and professional growth of the scholars, helping them to navigate their studies and prepare for leadership roles in their respective fields.
• Expansive Network: Upon joining the Academy, scholars become part of a vast and diverse network of students and alumni from various countries and disciplines. This network offers invaluable opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and lifelong connections that extend well beyond the fellowship.

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Eligibility Criteria for the Fully Funded McDonnell International Scholarship

• Be an International applicant
• Apply to both the McDonnell Academy and an eligible doctoral or master’s degree program at Washington University in St. Louis
• Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher by July 2024
• Submit a personal essay, a short video, and a recommendation letter as part of your application

Eligible Programs for the McDonnell International Scholarship

Here are the eligible graduate programs for the McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University in St. Louis, categorized by school:

Arts & Sciences:

PhD in Anthropology, Biology, Chemistry, Comparative Literature, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Economics, Education, English, Germanic Languages and Literatures, History, Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychological & Brain Sciences, Romance Languages and Literatures, Sociology.

Brown School:

• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• PhD in Public Health Sciences
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• PhD in Social Work

Olin Business School:

• MBA
• PhD in Business Administration

Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts:

Master of Architecture (MArch)

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Visual Art, MFA in Illustration & Visual Culture

McKelvey School of Engineering:

PhD programs in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science & Engineering, Electrical & Systems Engineering, Energy, Environmental & Chemical Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science

School of Law:

Juris Doctor (JD)

Doctor of Juridical Science (JSD)

School of Medicine:

PhD in Biochemistry, Computational & Systems Biology, Immunology, Molecular Genetics & Genomics, Molecular Microbiology, Neurosciences, Plant & Microbial Biosciences

Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI), Genetic Epidemiology (MSGE)

Application Process for the McDonnell International Scholarship

To apply to the McDonnell Academy, you must complete the online application as part of your WashU graduate program application. Ensure the following materials are submitted by the application deadline of January 31 at 11:59 pm CST:

• Personal essay
• Short video
• Recommendation letter

APPLICATION PAGE