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Presidential Fellowship for Leadership

Application Deadline: January 14, 2026

The George Washington University Presidential Fellowship offers high-achieving students the opportunity for professional development and graduate study at GW. Founded in 1989, the Presidential Fellowship program requires a two-year commitment and fellows contribute to the advancement of the GW community by serving as ambassadors through their academic, professional, and personal involvement.

Fellowship Benefits:

• Two years of full tuition coverage for full-time study in an accredited GW master's degree or PhD program
• $35,000 in combined stipend and salary for the academic year (9 months)
• Access to enhanced academic and professional development resources
• Professional development through placements in university offices and administration aligned with the Fellow's area of interest
• Opportunity to serve as a GW student ambassador and participate in unique events and initiatives with GW administrators and stakeholders

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

For current undergraduate seniors intending to enter a master's program:

• Currently enrolled GW undergraduate student
• Minimum of 60 credits at GW
• Minimum GPA of 3.25 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW Master's degree program beginning in Fall 2026

*Please note that students in accelerated Bachelor's/Master's programs (i.e. 4+1 Programs) are not eligible for the Presidential Fellowship. Students must commit to at least two years of Master’s program study in the Presidential Fellowship Program.

For current undergraduate seniors intending to enter a direct doctoral program:

• Currently enrolled GW undergraduate student
• Minimum of 60 credits at GW
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW doctoral degree program beginning in Fall 2026

For current final year master's students intending to enter a doctoral program:

• Currently enrolled GW master's student with a planned graduation date in Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026.
• Minimum GPA of 3.75 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW doctoral degree program beginning in Fall 2026

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