With a grant of up to $2,500, this fellowship helps PhD students cover costs associated with internships, especially those that are unpaid or require additional expenses.

This guide provides everything you need to know, including eligibility, benefits, the application process, required documents, the deadline, and the official application link.

Fellowship Overview

About the Fellowship

The MSU Graduate School introduced this pilot fellowship program for Summer 2026 to encourage doctoral students to explore internships beyond their usual academic research areas.

The goal is to:

• Promote career diversification
• Encourage real-world experience
• Support professional development outside academia

This fellowship is particularly beneficial for students who want to gain exposure in industries, organizations, or sectors that complement their academic training.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive:

• Funding of up to $2,500
• Financial support for internship-related expenses, such as:
  • Transportation and travel costs
  • Parking fees
  • Childcare expenses
  • Living support during unpaid internships

Important Note:

• Funds are not paid as salary
• They are intended to offset internship-related costs

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2026 Doctoral Internship Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be a doctoral (PhD) student at Michigan State University
• Be in good academic standing
• Be actively enrolled in a graduate program
• Be pursuing an internship that is:
  • NOT part of degree requirements
  • NOT a credit-bearing activity

Application Deadline

• Deadline: Rolling basis
• Applications are reviewed continuously until funds are exhausted

Key Insight: Early application is highly recommended due to limited funding availability

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit the following:

1. Personal Statement (Max 1,000 Words)

• Describe:
  • Internship role and responsibilities
  • How it aligns with your academic field

2. Budget Justification

• Breakdown of requested funding
• Include any additional funding sources

3. Supervisor Approval

• Signed confirmation from your major professor
• Must confirm satisfactory academic progress

4. Internship Proof

• Offer letter or official documentation from the internship provider

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps to apply:

1. MSU Graduate School Fellowship Page
2. Access and download the official application form
3. Complete all required sections carefully
4. Attach all necessary documents
5. Submit your completed application
6. Wait for review and decision

Official Application Link

To apply and download the form: MSU Graduate School Fellowship Page

Selection Process

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis
• Incomplete applications are not considered
• Successful applicants are notified within:
  • 3–5 business days

Fund Disbursement: May take up to 2 weeks after approval

Important Considerations

Before applying, note the following:

• Funding is limited and competitive
• Not all applicants will receive support
• Fellowship may:
  • Affect existing financial aid
  • Reduce loan eligibility

Financial Advice: Students are encouraged to consult their financial aid office before accepting the award.

FAQs

1. Can international students apply?

Yes, as long as they are doctoral students at MSU in good standing.

2. Is this a paid internship?

No. The fellowship provides support funding, not a salary.

3. Can I apply if my internship is part of my degree?

No. The internship must be independent of your academic requirements.

4. How long does it take to get a decision?

Typically, within 3–5 business days.

5. Can I apply after starting my internship?

Yes, but early application is strongly recommended.

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