Thomas J. Watson Fellowship

About this scholarship

The Thomas J. Watson Fellowship gives graduating college seniors $40,000 for twelve months of purposeful, independent exploration outside the United States. Fellows design original projects rooted in a deep personal interest, determine where to travel and whom to meet, and remain unaffiliated with academic institutions and formal employment during the fellowship. The Foundation also provides international travel medical insurance, reimbursement equivalent to twelve months of eligible institutional and federally guaranteed student-loan payments, and additional support for a spouse or Personal Assistance Services when applicable. There is no at-large application: candidates must be nominated by one of the Watson partner colleges and universities. U.S. citizens and international students may apply during the academic year in which they receive their bachelor’s degree. International fellows must remain outside both the United States and their home country for the full twelve consecutive months. The application includes a personal statement, a project statement, two recommendations, a transcript, and the applicant’s campus selection process. Watson evaluates leadership, imagination, independence, emotional maturity, courage, integrity, resourcefulness, and responsibility, along with whether the project is organic, inspiring, open, bold, realistic, connected, and multidimensional. Campus deadlines vary, so students should use the official partner directory to contact their advisor immediately. National selection begins in November, awards are announced in mid-March, and fellows depart by August 1.

Eligibility

• Be a graduating senior receiving a bachelor’s degree during the application academic year
• Attend and receive nomination from a Watson partner college or university
• Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible international student at a partner institution
• Design an original project for purposeful independent exploration abroad
• Be able to remain outside the United States for twelve consecutive months
• If an international student, also remain outside your home country for the full fellowship period
• Avoid formal employment and academic-institution affiliation during the Watson year
• Submit a personal statement, project statement, two recommendations, and transcript
• Meet the internal deadline and campus selection requirements set by your partner institution