What kinds of opportunities are available?
We have many opportunities for undergraduate students and graduate students alike:
- Fellowships, Scholarships, and other funding for graduate study (primarily abroad)
- Research grants and funding for summer projects, as well as assistance starting in on research
- Sources of funding for housing, travel, and miscellaneous expenses related to presenting research (speak to an advisor to learn more)
We also have two sponsored programs:
Do I qualify for any fellowships or research grants?
Most fellowships and grant opportunities have individual restrictions, whether they are by class year, by academic achievement, or even by course interest. We will make our best efforts to keep the details of the various opportunities up-to-date. It is generally a good idea to make an appointment to speak with an advisor, even if you have one specific opportunity in mind—they may know several others that you could apply for!
I have more questions about…
Benjamin Franklin Scholars!
Please see the Benjamin Franklin Scholars FAQ for more answers.
University Scholars!
Check out the University Scholars page; we will build a FAQ if the need arises.
Fellowships!
For now, look around the main Fellowships page; we are hard at work designing a comprehensive FAQ for Fellowships.
doing research!
For now, look around the main Research page; we are hard at work designing a comprehensive FAQ for undergraduate research.
What is the difference between University Scholars and Benjamin Franklin Scholars?
First off, both programs are excellent examples of the opportunities available for high-achieving students at the University of Pennsylvania!
The Benjamin Franklin Scholars program is an advising-focused academic program taken on by outstanding students in addition to their chosen major or majors. Some participants are invited during their senior year of high school; others apply during their freshman or sophomore year. Program requirements include taking at least four courses posted as Benjamin Franklin Scholars seminars.
The University Scholars program is a support system for exceptional students who are interested in pursuing intensively self-directed research during their undergraduate career. The University Scholars program maintains a pool of funds to which student participants can apply for fiscal support of their research efforts; any student who receives funds must give at least one talk on their work in front of their peers and faculty advisors at a catered lunch at CURF.
There is significant cross-pollination between programs; many Benjamin Franklin Scholars who discover a passion and a skill for research go on to apply to the University Scholars program during their sophomore or junior year.