The McDonnell International Scholars Academy has opened applications for its 2026 scholarship program at Washington University in St. Louis, USA. This prestigious fellowship provides a comprehensive funding package for outstanding international and domestic candidates pursuing graduate or professional degree studies.
Selected scholars will receive full tuition coverage, a monthly living stipend, relocation allowance, and travel allowance, in addition to mentorship, leadership training, and access to a global academic network.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: USA
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Living Stipend | Travel Costs | Mentorship
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: January 31, 2026
Scholarship Details
The McDonnell International Scholars Academy develops a global community of culturally diverse leaders who are prepared to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, professional development, and international engagement, making it one of the most transformative academic experiences worldwide.
Through strong partnerships with leading universities across the globe, the Academy serves as a hub for groundbreaking research, mentorship, and leadership capacity-building. The program not only equips scholars with advanced academic training but also prepares them with the global mindset, cultural competence, and leadership skills necessary to drive positive change in their communities.
Scholars are carefully selected based on their academic distinction, leadership potential, and global outlook. Beyond financial support, participants benefit from professional guidance, cultural exchange programs, and opportunities to join a close-knit international network of scholars and alumni.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for consideration, applicants must:
- Apply to an eligible Washington University doctoral or master’s program
- Submit a separate application to both the McDonnell Academy and the chosen WashU graduate program
- Hold or be expected to complete a bachelor’s degree or higher by July 2026
- Note that this fellowship is not available for undergraduate studies
- Be from any country (applications are open worldwide), but priority is given to candidates from the Academy’s Partner Universities
Scholarship Benefits
Scholars awarded this fellowship will receive:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Relocation and travel allowances
- Opportunity to live in modern cohort housing within walking distance of campus
- Access to mentorship, leadership development, cultural engagement programs, and a global network of peers and alumni
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Academic Distinction: Proven excellence and potential to lead in academia, government, business, or professional sectors
- Global Mindset: Openness to cultural exchange, strong interest in international and social issues, and commitment to cross-disciplinary engagement
- Leadership Potential: Demonstrated capacity to drive positive change and willingness to participate fully in the Academy’s leadership platform
- Community Spirit: Dedication to engaging in the Academy’s academic, professional, and social activities, while fostering ties with the global partner network
How to Apply
To complete the application process, candidates should:
- Visit the official scholarship application webpage (Click HERE)
- Apply to an eligible Washington University master’s or doctoral program
- Apply separately for the McDonnell International Scholars Academy Fellowship
- Submit the following materials online before the deadline (January 31, 2026 at 11:59 pm CST):
- Personal Essay
- Short Video
- Recommendation Letter
Final decisions are typically released by the end of March or early April. Around 20 scholars are admitted into the Academy each year. Applicants will be notified of results via their online application dashboard and email.
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