Fully Funded
Washington University in St. Louis: McDonnell International Scholars Academy
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Opportunity Type
Scholarship
Fully Funded
Masters, PhD
Description
The McDonnell Academy selects Scholars based on outstanding academic potential and on an applicants’ commitment to learning about international issues and global leadership.
Eligibilities
The McDonnell International Scholars program is open to graduate and professional students who have applied to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs and also meet one of the following criteria:
- International graduate and professional candidate who is a graduate of one of the Academy’s partner universities.
- Domestic (U.S.) citizens who have spent most of their life and earned previous degrees in the United States are eligible to apply as U.S. Scholars.
- International graduate and professional candidate from international universities outside the partner network.
To be eligible to apply to the McDonnell Academy, you must be a graduate of one of our Partner Universities and must also apply to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs. Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a doctoral or master’s degree program at Washington University in St. Louis.
Benefits
Admission for International Scholars from Other International Universities:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as an Academy Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university of the McDonnell Academy, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner institution.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for U.S. Scholars
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance up to $750 to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university in the McDonnell Academy network, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner university.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for International Scholars from Partner University Network:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1,500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- An annual travel allowance of up to $2,000 for a trip to the Scholar’s alma mater.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Learn more about McDonnell Academy Residences.
Program Venue
Washington
USA
Eligible Regions
All Regions
All Countries
select_all_regions
Eligible Countries
Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Angola, Africa, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Democratic Republic, Costa Rica, Cote d’Ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Greenland, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, North Macedonia (formerly Macedonia), Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Tunisia, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, UAE, UK, USA, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City (Holy See), Venezuela, Vietnam, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Hungary, Cook Island, Congo (Republic)
Application Process
Applications are submitted online. The following application materials should be received by the application deadline — January 31 at 11:59 pm CST.
- Candidate’s biographic information and academic history
- Personal essay
- Short video
- Recommendation letter
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will begin the evaluation of applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April.
Application Process
The McDonnell Academy online application requires submission of the following information. It is highly recommended that you apply using a current version of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome. All information must be provided in English.
Complete your profile
The McDonnell Academy application requests general biographic and demographic information such as your contact details and country of citizenship.
Academic history
Provide details about your previous academic degrees, such as the partner university you graduated from (international students only) and the degree(s) you hold.
Personal essay
One of the goals of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy is to create a global network of leaders who have a desire to address scientific and societal issues. Therefore, we wish to recruit individuals who would like to develop leadership skills and a knowledge base that extends beyond what is required in traditional graduate and professional studies.
With this in mind, in 1,000 words or less, please explain:
- Why would you like to be selected as a McDonnell Scholar?
- How will being a McDonnell Scholar benefit your professional career and your country?
- How will you contribute to the goals of the McDonnell Academy?
Essays must be uploaded to your application in .pdf format.
Video introduction
We would like to get to know you better by receiving a video addressing your views on BOTH of the following questions:
- What is the biggest global challenge, (with the exception of COVID-19) facing our world today and how would you address it?
- Outside your field of study, what are you passionate about and why?
Please do not worry about the production aspects of the video, however, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Your face should be in full view of the camera.
- Your response should be audible.
- Your video should be a minimum of one minute in length, not to exceed three minutes.
You will be required to upload a URL to your application; video files such as .mp4, .mov, .wmv are not accepted. It is recommended that applicants use the video recording software of their choice and upload the file to an online video sharing service such as YouTube or Vimeo. Please adjust the video privacy settings accordingly to ensure it is viewable.
Recommendation letter
You are required to select one individual to write a letter of recommendation for you. This individual should be a current or past instructor, academic advisor, employment manager, or professional mentor who is able to speak to your leadership skills, character, and potential. We will also review your departmental recommendation letters included in your graduate program application (in consultation with the academic department). For that reason, please select an individual who has NOT previously submitted a letter of recommendation for your academic program application. The application will request the individual’s name, organization, and professional email address. Because your recommender will be contacted directly by the McDonnell Academy to request their letter, we strongly suggest you discuss the recommendation letter in advance with him/her before submitting contact information in the online application. Recommenders will not be contacted until your application is submitted. Upon submission, your recommender will be sent a letter of recommendation request email which includes a link to upload the recommendation letter. The letter of recommendation must be submitted within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email.
Application Status & Changing Application Information
Details such as your address and phone contact can be updated in your profile at any time. Your academic history, personal essay, video introduction and recommender contact information can be changed at any time before your application is submitted. After submission, the application data cannot be changed.
After you have begun the online application process, you can check the status of your application on your applicant dashboard. The dashboard provides the status of the different sections in your application (as you complete them prior to submission), and the status of your application after you have completed all sections and submitted the application. Until your application has been submitted, your application status will be “Incomplete”. This will change to “Pending” after you have submitted the application. As applications are reviewed, other status updates will appear to indicate where your application is in the process.
Important Note: Your application is NOT fully complete without the letter of recommendation, which must be uploaded to your application by the recommender within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email. If the recommender information requires any changes after your application has been submitted, contact mcdonnelladmissions@wustl.edu. Your applicant dashboard will display the status of the recommender’s letter. If a recommender does not submit a letter of recommendation by the February 14th deadline, the link they were provided to upload your letter will automatically expire. McDonnell Academy Admissions does not send notifications or reminders to the applicant or recommender in this regard. It is the responsibility of the applicant and recommender to ensure the letter is uploaded prior to the recommendation letter due date.
Application Evaluation & Decisions
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will evaluate applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April. However, McDonnell Academy decisions are typically made by the end of March.
Your applicant dashboard within the online application will be updated to reflect the decision that is reached regarding your acceptance. Accepted individuals will also receive an email notification with further information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a graduate degree program at Washington University in St. Louis. You must complete an application to an eligible WashU doctoral or master’s degree program before completing the McDonnell Scholar application. Visit wustl.edu/admissions/ for detailed graduate program information and to apply to a WashU graduate degree program.
Share on
Fully Funded
Washington University in St. Louis: McDonnell International Scholars Academy
Share on
Opportunity Type
Scholarship
Full Time
Masters, PhD
Description
The McDonnell Academy selects Scholars based on outstanding academic potential and on an applicants’ commitment to learning about international issues and global leadership.
Eligibilities
The McDonnell International Scholars program is open to graduate and professional students who have applied to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs and also meet one of the following criteria:
- International graduate and professional candidate who is a graduate of one of the Academy’s partner universities.
- Domestic (U.S.) citizens who have spent most of their life and earned previous degrees in the United States are eligible to apply as U.S. Scholars.
- International graduate and professional candidate from international universities outside the partner network.
To be eligible to apply to the McDonnell Academy, you must be a graduate of one of our Partner Universities and must also apply to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs. Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a doctoral or master’s degree program at Washington University in St. Louis.
Benefits
Admission for International Scholars from Other International Universities:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as an Academy Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university of the McDonnell Academy, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner institution.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for U.S. Scholars
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance up to $750 to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university in the McDonnell Academy network, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner university.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for International Scholars from Partner University Network:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1,500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- An annual travel allowance of up to $2,000 for a trip to the Scholar’s alma mater.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Learn more about McDonnell Academy Residences.
Program Venue
Washington
Eligible Regions
All Regions
Eligible Countries
All Countries
Application Process
Applications are submitted online. The following application materials should be received by the application deadline — January 31 at 11:59 pm CST.
- Candidate’s biographic information and academic history
- Personal essay
- Short video
- Recommendation letter
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will begin the evaluation of applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April.
Application Process
The McDonnell Academy online application requires submission of the following information. It is highly recommended that you apply using a current version of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome. All information must be provided in English.
Complete your profile
The McDonnell Academy application requests general biographic and demographic information such as your contact details and country of citizenship.
Academic history
Provide details about your previous academic degrees, such as the partner university you graduated from (international students only) and the degree(s) you hold.
Personal essay
One of the goals of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy is to create a global network of leaders who have a desire to address scientific and societal issues. Therefore, we wish to recruit individuals who would like to develop leadership skills and a knowledge base that extends beyond what is required in traditional graduate and professional studies.
With this in mind, in 1,000 words or less, please explain:
- Why would you like to be selected as a McDonnell Scholar?
- How will being a McDonnell Scholar benefit your professional career and your country?
- How will you contribute to the goals of the McDonnell Academy?
Essays must be uploaded to your application in .pdf format.
Video introduction
We would like to get to know you better by receiving a video addressing your views on BOTH of the following questions:
- What is the biggest global challenge, (with the exception of COVID-19) facing our world today and how would you address it?
- Outside your field of study, what are you passionate about and why?
Please do not worry about the production aspects of the video, however, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Your face should be in full view of the camera.
- Your response should be audible.
- Your video should be a minimum of one minute in length, not to exceed three minutes.
You will be required to upload a URL to your application; video files such as .mp4, .mov, .wmv are not accepted. It is recommended that applicants use the video recording software of their choice and upload the file to an online video sharing service such as YouTube or Vimeo. Please adjust the video privacy settings accordingly to ensure it is viewable.
Recommendation letter
You are required to select one individual to write a letter of recommendation for you. This individual should be a current or past instructor, academic advisor, employment manager, or professional mentor who is able to speak to your leadership skills, character, and potential. We will also review your departmental recommendation letters included in your graduate program application (in consultation with the academic department). For that reason, please select an individual who has NOT previously submitted a letter of recommendation for your academic program application. The application will request the individual’s name, organization, and professional email address. Because your recommender will be contacted directly by the McDonnell Academy to request their letter, we strongly suggest you discuss the recommendation letter in advance with him/her before submitting contact information in the online application. Recommenders will not be contacted until your application is submitted. Upon submission, your recommender will be sent a letter of recommendation request email which includes a link to upload the recommendation letter. The letter of recommendation must be submitted within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email.
Application Status & Changing Application Information
Details such as your address and phone contact can be updated in your profile at any time. Your academic history, personal essay, video introduction and recommender contact information can be changed at any time before your application is submitted. After submission, the application data cannot be changed.
After you have begun the online application process, you can check the status of your application on your applicant dashboard. The dashboard provides the status of the different sections in your application (as you complete them prior to submission), and the status of your application after you have completed all sections and submitted the application. Until your application has been submitted, your application status will be “Incomplete”. This will change to “Pending” after you have submitted the application. As applications are reviewed, other status updates will appear to indicate where your application is in the process.
Important Note: Your application is NOT fully complete without the letter of recommendation, which must be uploaded to your application by the recommender within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email. If the recommender information requires any changes after your application has been submitted, contact mcdonnelladmissions@wustl.edu. Your applicant dashboard will display the status of the recommender’s letter. If a recommender does not submit a letter of recommendation by the February 14th deadline, the link they were provided to upload your letter will automatically expire. McDonnell Academy Admissions does not send notifications or reminders to the applicant or recommender in this regard. It is the responsibility of the applicant and recommender to ensure the letter is uploaded prior to the recommendation letter due date.
Application Evaluation & Decisions
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will evaluate applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April. However, McDonnell Academy decisions are typically made by the end of March.
Your applicant dashboard within the online application will be updated to reflect the decision that is reached regarding your acceptance. Accepted individuals will also receive an email notification with further information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a graduate degree program at Washington University in St. Louis. You must complete an application to an eligible WashU doctoral or master’s degree program before completing the McDonnell Scholar application. Visit wustl.edu/admissions/ for detailed graduate program information and to apply to a WashU graduate degree program.
Share on
Fully Funded
Washington University in St. Louis: McDonnell International Scholars Academy
Share on
Opportunity Type
Scholarship
Select Type
Masters, PhD
Description
The McDonnell Academy selects Scholars based on outstanding academic potential and on an applicants’ commitment to learning about international issues and global leadership.
Eligibilities
The McDonnell International Scholars program is open to graduate and professional students who have applied to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs and also meet one of the following criteria:
- International graduate and professional candidate who is a graduate of one of the Academy’s partner universities.
- Domestic (U.S.) citizens who have spent most of their life and earned previous degrees in the United States are eligible to apply as U.S. Scholars.
- International graduate and professional candidate from international universities outside the partner network.
To be eligible to apply to the McDonnell Academy, you must be a graduate of one of our Partner Universities and must also apply to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs. Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a doctoral or master’s degree program at Washington University in St. Louis.
Benefits
Admission for International Scholars from Other International Universities:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as an Academy Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university of the McDonnell Academy, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner institution.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for U.S. Scholars
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance up to $750 to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university in the McDonnell Academy network, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner university.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for International Scholars from Partner University Network:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1,500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- An annual travel allowance of up to $2,000 for a trip to the Scholar’s alma mater.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Learn more about McDonnell Academy Residences.
Program Venue
Washington
Eligible Regions
All Regions
Eligible Countries
All Countries
Application Process
Applications are submitted online. The following application materials should be received by the application deadline — January 31 at 11:59 pm CST.
- Candidate’s biographic information and academic history
- Personal essay
- Short video
- Recommendation letter
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will begin the evaluation of applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April.
Application Process
The McDonnell Academy online application requires submission of the following information. It is highly recommended that you apply using a current version of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome. All information must be provided in English.
Complete your profile
The McDonnell Academy application requests general biographic and demographic information such as your contact details and country of citizenship.
Academic history
Provide details about your previous academic degrees, such as the partner university you graduated from (international students only) and the degree(s) you hold.
Personal essay
One of the goals of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy is to create a global network of leaders who have a desire to address scientific and societal issues. Therefore, we wish to recruit individuals who would like to develop leadership skills and a knowledge base that extends beyond what is required in traditional graduate and professional studies.
With this in mind, in 1,000 words or less, please explain:
- Why would you like to be selected as a McDonnell Scholar?
- How will being a McDonnell Scholar benefit your professional career and your country?
- How will you contribute to the goals of the McDonnell Academy?
Essays must be uploaded to your application in .pdf format.
Video introduction
We would like to get to know you better by receiving a video addressing your views on BOTH of the following questions:
- What is the biggest global challenge, (with the exception of COVID-19) facing our world today and how would you address it?
- Outside your field of study, what are you passionate about and why?
Please do not worry about the production aspects of the video, however, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Your face should be in full view of the camera.
- Your response should be audible.
- Your video should be a minimum of one minute in length, not to exceed three minutes.
You will be required to upload a URL to your application; video files such as .mp4, .mov, .wmv are not accepted. It is recommended that applicants use the video recording software of their choice and upload the file to an online video sharing service such as YouTube or Vimeo. Please adjust the video privacy settings accordingly to ensure it is viewable.
Recommendation letter
You are required to select one individual to write a letter of recommendation for you. This individual should be a current or past instructor, academic advisor, employment manager, or professional mentor who is able to speak to your leadership skills, character, and potential. We will also review your departmental recommendation letters included in your graduate program application (in consultation with the academic department). For that reason, please select an individual who has NOT previously submitted a letter of recommendation for your academic program application. The application will request the individual’s name, organization, and professional email address. Because your recommender will be contacted directly by the McDonnell Academy to request their letter, we strongly suggest you discuss the recommendation letter in advance with him/her before submitting contact information in the online application. Recommenders will not be contacted until your application is submitted. Upon submission, your recommender will be sent a letter of recommendation request email which includes a link to upload the recommendation letter. The letter of recommendation must be submitted within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email.
Application Status & Changing Application Information
Details such as your address and phone contact can be updated in your profile at any time. Your academic history, personal essay, video introduction and recommender contact information can be changed at any time before your application is submitted. After submission, the application data cannot be changed.
After you have begun the online application process, you can check the status of your application on your applicant dashboard. The dashboard provides the status of the different sections in your application (as you complete them prior to submission), and the status of your application after you have completed all sections and submitted the application. Until your application has been submitted, your application status will be “Incomplete”. This will change to “Pending” after you have submitted the application. As applications are reviewed, other status updates will appear to indicate where your application is in the process.
Important Note: Your application is NOT fully complete without the letter of recommendation, which must be uploaded to your application by the recommender within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email. If the recommender information requires any changes after your application has been submitted, contact mcdonnelladmissions@wustl.edu. Your applicant dashboard will display the status of the recommender’s letter. If a recommender does not submit a letter of recommendation by the February 14th deadline, the link they were provided to upload your letter will automatically expire. McDonnell Academy Admissions does not send notifications or reminders to the applicant or recommender in this regard. It is the responsibility of the applicant and recommender to ensure the letter is uploaded prior to the recommendation letter due date.
Application Evaluation & Decisions
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will evaluate applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April. However, McDonnell Academy decisions are typically made by the end of March.
Your applicant dashboard within the online application will be updated to reflect the decision that is reached regarding your acceptance. Accepted individuals will also receive an email notification with further information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a graduate degree program at Washington University in St. Louis. You must complete an application to an eligible WashU doctoral or master’s degree program before completing the McDonnell Scholar application. Visit wustl.edu/admissions/ for detailed graduate program information and to apply to a WashU graduate degree program.
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Fully Funded
Opening Date
Washington University in St. Louis: McDonnell International Scholars Academy
FUNDING TYPE
Description
The McDonnell Academy selects Scholars based on outstanding academic potential and on an applicants’ commitment to learning about international issues and global leadership.
BENIFITS
Admission for International Scholars from Other International Universities:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as an Academy Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university of the McDonnell Academy, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner institution.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for U.S. Scholars
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree for up to five years.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance up to $750 to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- Travel support for one or more extended trips to a partner university in the McDonnell Academy network, to be arranged on a case-by-case basis. The Academy will also help in arranging on-site activities and support for living expenses at the partner university.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Read more about the McDonnell Academy Residences.
Admission for International Scholars from Partner University Network:
- Full tuition for study in a doctoral or master’s degree program. This support will continue as long as the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree.
- A 12-month living stipend for each year that the Scholar is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. This stipend is set at $28,000 per academic year. (Some PhD programs offer additional stipend funds. Check with the department to which you are applying for more information.)
- A one-time travel allowance of up to $1,500 for travel to St. Louis to begin studies as a McDonnell Scholar.
- An annual travel allowance of up to $2,000 for a trip to the Scholar’s alma mater.
- Opportunity to reside exclusively with other McDonnell Scholars in attractive, yet affordable apartments within walking distance to campus. Learn more about McDonnell Academy Residences.
Eligibilities
The McDonnell International Scholars program is open to graduate and professional students who have applied to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs and also meet one of the following criteria:
- International graduate and professional candidate who is a graduate of one of the Academy’s partner universities.
- Domestic (U.S.) citizens who have spent most of their life and earned previous degrees in the United States are eligible to apply as U.S. Scholars.
- International graduate and professional candidate from international universities outside the partner network.
To be eligible to apply to the McDonnell Academy, you must be a graduate of one of our Partner Universities and must also apply to one of a select group of full-time doctoral or master’s degree programs. Application to the McDonnell Academy is separate from and in addition to, an application to a doctoral or master’s degree program at Washington University in St. Louis.
For Further Queries:
Eligible Regions:
Program Venue:
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications are submitted online. The following application materials should be received by the application deadline — January 31 at 11:59 pm CST.
- Candidate’s biographic information and academic history
- Personal essay
- Short video
- Recommendation letter
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will begin the evaluation of applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April.
Application Process
The McDonnell Academy online application requires submission of the following information. It is highly recommended that you apply using a current version of Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome. All information must be provided in English.
Complete your profile
The McDonnell Academy application requests general biographic and demographic information such as your contact details and country of citizenship.
Academic history
Provide details about your previous academic degrees, such as the partner university you graduated from (international students only) and the degree(s) you hold.
Personal essay
One of the goals of the McDonnell International Scholars Academy is to create a global network of leaders who have a desire to address scientific and societal issues. Therefore, we wish to recruit individuals who would like to develop leadership skills and a knowledge base that extends beyond what is required in traditional graduate and professional studies.
With this in mind, in 1,000 words or less, please explain:
- Why would you like to be selected as a McDonnell Scholar?
- How will being a McDonnell Scholar benefit your professional career and your country?
- How will you contribute to the goals of the McDonnell Academy?
Essays must be uploaded to your application in .pdf format.
Video introduction
We would like to get to know you better by receiving a video addressing your views on BOTH of the following questions:
- What is the biggest global challenge, (with the exception of COVID-19) facing our world today and how would you address it?
- Outside your field of study, what are you passionate about and why?
Please do not worry about the production aspects of the video, however, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Your face should be in full view of the camera.
- Your response should be audible.
- Your video should be a minimum of one minute in length, not to exceed three minutes.
You will be required to upload a URL to your application; video files such as .mp4, .mov, .wmv are not accepted. It is recommended that applicants use the video recording software of their choice and upload the file to an online video sharing service such as YouTube or Vimeo. Please adjust the video privacy settings accordingly to ensure it is viewable.
Recommendation letter
You are required to select one individual to write a letter of recommendation for you. This individual should be a current or past instructor, academic advisor, employment manager, or professional mentor who is able to speak to your leadership skills, character, and potential. We will also review your departmental recommendation letters included in your graduate program application (in consultation with the academic department). For that reason, please select an individual who has NOT previously submitted a letter of recommendation for your academic program application. The application will request the individual’s name, organization, and professional email address. Because your recommender will be contacted directly by the McDonnell Academy to request their letter, we strongly suggest you discuss the recommendation letter in advance with him/her before submitting contact information in the online application. Recommenders will not be contacted until your application is submitted. Upon submission, your recommender will be sent a letter of recommendation request email which includes a link to upload the recommendation letter. The letter of recommendation must be submitted within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email.
Application Status & Changing Application Information
Details such as your address and phone contact can be updated in your profile at any time. Your academic history, personal essay, video introduction and recommender contact information can be changed at any time before your application is submitted. After submission, the application data cannot be changed.
After you have begun the online application process, you can check the status of your application on your applicant dashboard. The dashboard provides the status of the different sections in your application (as you complete them prior to submission), and the status of your application after you have completed all sections and submitted the application. Until your application has been submitted, your application status will be “Incomplete”. This will change to “Pending” after you have submitted the application. As applications are reviewed, other status updates will appear to indicate where your application is in the process.
Important Note: Your application is NOT fully complete without the letter of recommendation, which must be uploaded to your application by the recommender within 14 days from receipt of the letter of recommendation request email. If the recommender information requires any changes after your application has been submitted, contact mcdonnelladmissions@wustl.edu. Your applicant dashboard will display the status of the recommender’s letter. If a recommender does not submit a letter of recommendation by the February 14th deadline, the link they were provided to upload your letter will automatically expire. McDonnell Academy Admissions does not send notifications or reminders to the applicant or recommender in this regard. It is the responsibility of the applicant and recommender to ensure the letter is uploaded prior to the recommendation letter due date.
Application Evaluation & Decisions
Once an applicant record is ready for review, the admissions committee will evaluate applicant records. We appreciate your patience during this period, as some programs will evaluate through April. However, McDonnell Academy decisions are typically made by the end of March.
Your applicant dashboard within the online application will be updated to reflect the decision that is reached regarding your acceptance. Accepted individuals will also receive an email notification with further information.
