Summary Points
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The NSF’s new Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) Graduate Fellowship Program (EGFP) supports talented individuals who received Honorable Mention from the GRFP in the last three years, offering up to $37,000 annually for graduate fellowships.
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Proposals for EGFP must be submitted by academic institutions in eligible EPSCoR jurisdictions, which are required to recruit fellows using the NSF Education and Training Application (ETAP) system.
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Prospective fellows must complete their applications in ETAP and be matched with a host institution, and they can apply to different graduate programs than those listed in their previous GRFP application.
- For a successful application, candidates should thoroughly read the NSF solicitation (NSF 24-588) and EGFP fact sheet, and direct any questions to egfp@nsf.gov.
Unlocking Opportunities Through the EPSCoR Graduate Fellowship Program
The National Science Foundation (NSF) continually seeks to bolster its support for graduate students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Recently, the NSF introduced the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) Graduate Fellowship Program (EGFP). This program provides essential funding for exceptionally talented individuals who received an Honorable Mention in the prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP). As of May 2024, new initiatives like the EGFP serve as pathways for recent graduates to advance their research and contribute significantly to their fields.
Notably, the EGFP awards grant up to $37,000 annually for three years. This funding not only supports stipends but also covers education costs, enhancing the financial viability for graduate students. Moreover, the program is well-coordinated among NSF’s eight directorates and the Office of Integrative Activities. By targeting specific topical areas for funding, it ensures that students focus on relevant research issues. Academic institutions within eligible EPSCoR jurisdictions will play a key role in recruiting qualified candidates. Therefore, institutions can tap into a rich pool of candidates, thereby stimulating competitive research and innovation in various disciplines.
Guidance for Prospective EGFP Applicants
For students interested in applying to the EGFP, clear steps provide a roadmap to success. First, carefully read the comprehensive solicitation (NSF 24-588), which outlines essential instructions for a successful application. In addition, students need to access the NSF Education and Training Application (ETAP) system. This platform will serve as a vital link between prospective fellows and institutions, facilitating recruitment and application processes.
Potential fellows can explore different academic programs outside their previous GRFP applications. This flexibility encourages interdisciplinary studies, which align well with current trends in research. However, once accepted, fellows must remain in the same discipline throughout their education. For any queries, students have the opportunity to reach out to the EGFP support team at egfp@nsf.gov. Such communication can clarify uncertainties and make the application process smoother, ultimately contributing to the advancement of science and technology research in the U.S.
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