Merage Foundation Fellows Program

Program Overview

The Foundation provides Merage Fellows with strategic access to mentors and leaders in their chosen careers. The Foundation currently has 68 Fellows pursuing important career trajectories in medicine, law, public policy, psychology, business, drama, and other fields.  Fellows also receive networking support and mentoring from the Foundation throughout their careers.  Stanford may nominate three students for this two year, $10,000 per year fellowship for a project in pursuit of the Fellow’s “American Dream” after graduation at the end of senior year. Stanford is one of 23 partner institutions invited to nominate potential fellows. A total of 12-15 fellowships are awarded nationally.

  • Merage Foundation
  • Campus Deadline: Thursday, October 15, 5pm
  • Award:
    • $10,000 per year for first two years

    • Fellows may use their stipends to pursue educational opportunities; to travel for research and professional development; to secure mentors; to support internships, etc.—in other words, to pursue the American Dream described in their application and interviews.

    • Fellows are funded to attend the annual National Leadership Awards Dinner in June
    • Eligible to attend Foundation's events on immigration

Eligibility Criteria

Applications will be reviewed at Stanford between October 15 and the beginning of November. Stanford finalists will be interviewed before Thanksgiving break and nominations will be sent to the Foundation on December 4.  Members of the Foundation’s National Advisory Board then interview select partner universities’ nominees. The Foundation may also interview candidates. The final selection of Merage American Dream Fellows, based on their applications and interviews, is made by the Foundation in late Spring.

  • Graduating Senior
  • Solid academic record, history of leadership, commitment to hard work, creativity and initiative, and shown ethical behavior

  • A completed application that also outlines a clear set of objectives and strategies concerning achieving leadership positions in one of the following areas: business, culture and the arts, science or education, or public service.

  • Must be an immigrant to the United States, or have either become a citizen since coming to the U.S. or hold a Permanent Resident Card.  Students who are not yet citizens must indicate their intent to become United States citizens

How to Apply

The following steps must be completed for an application to be considered for campus nomination:

  • Complete a campus application consisting of:
    1. completed Merage application form and accompanying essays
    2. current official Stanford transcript
    3. three letters of recommendation
      • Letters should call attention to your academic accomplishments, your leadership abilities, your creativity and initiative, your adherence to ethical behavior, etc.  Two of the letters should be written by faculty members; additional letters may be written by university administrators, employers, or leaders in the community.
    4. proof of naturalization or permanent residency
    5. resume

Additional Resources

It is strongly encouraged to consult with advisors who have experience with this competition in the office of Undergraduate Advising and Research. To schedule an appointment regarding the Merage Fellows Program, please contact Laura Selznick.

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