The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship from the Department of War, USA, formerly the Department of Defense, aims to increase the number of USA citizens receiving doctoral degrees in science and engineering disciplines of military importance. Fellows do not incur any military or other service obligation.
Applications are open to U.S. citizens, U.S. dual citizens and U.S. nationals who have completed their undergraduate studies before the fellowship year begins. Applicants must be applying to, accepted to, or enrolled at an accredited graduate-level institution in the United States, be at or near the beginning of their graduate study (within the first 2 years if enrolled), and have at least three years remaining in their degree program. Research must align with one or more topics identified in the Department of Defense’s Broad Agency Announcements. Permanent residents are not eligible.
The fellowship provides a stipend of 3,600 USD per month (43,200 USD annually), paid monthly directly to fellows.
Applications close on October 30, 2026.