
Merit-based fellowship supporting immigrants and children of immigrants in the U.S. pursuing graduate education. Provides up to $90,000 over two years and emphasizes creativity, initiative, and sustained accomplishment.
Host Institution: Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
Fellowship Duration: Begins Fall 2026 (typically aligned with the graduate/professional school academic year)
Application Deadline: October 30, 2025 – 2:00 PM ET
Application: Online (free)
The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship supports immigrants and children of immigrants in pursuing graduate or professional studies in the U.S. The fellowship provides financial support for tuition and living costs, along with a network of mentorship and career development opportunities.
The program is designed to enable New Americans to leverage their unique experiences to contribute to society and excel in their chosen fields.
Must be an immigrant or a child of immigrants.
Must apply when:
Applying to a graduate/professional school, or
Within the first two years of the graduate/professional program.
No specific GPA, test scores, or school requirements.
Must meet eligibility as of October 30, 2025.
Fellowship is for full-time graduate/professional study at accredited U.S. institutions.
First year cannot be deferred.
Step 1: Collect Necessary Information
Demographic and contact information
Higher-education history
Graduate program(s) for which you seek support
Three to five recommendations (mandatory: 3, optional up to 5)
Submissions:
Resume/CV
Two essays (max 1000 words each)
Essay 1: Experiences as a New American – how they shaped your accomplishments.
Essay 2: Current and near-term career goals, graduate program choices, and how they connect to your career plans.
College and graduate transcripts
Standardized test scores (if required by your program)
Optional exhibits
Step 2: Request Recommendations
3–5 letters, submitted online
Guidance provided for recommenders
Past recommendations cannot be reused
Step 3: Submit Online Application
All materials must be submitted online
Hard copies not accepted
No exceptions to the deadline
October 30, 2025 – 2 PM ET: Application deadline
Mid-Jan to Early Feb 2026: Virtual interviews for top 77 finalists
February 2026: Winners notified
March 2026: Fellowship winners selected (30 Fellows)
April 2026: Public announcement of 2026 Fellows
Fall 2026: Fellowship begins (includes stipend, tuition support, Fall Conference attendance)
Tuition and stipend support for full-time graduate/professional study
Attendance at the Fellowship’s Fall Conference (all expenses paid)
Access to a network of 800+ Soros Fellows for mentorship, collaboration, and professional development
Online Application Portal: Apply Here – https://pdsoros.org/application-process/
FAQ and Resources: PD Soros Fellows FAQ
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