CH

Churchill Scholarship

by Winston Churchill Foundation of the United States

A prestigious scholarship sending top American STEM students to Churchill College, Cambridge for a year of graduate study in science, mathematics, and engineering.

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Funding

Full funding at University of Cambridge

Duration

1 year (Master's)

Geography

United States

Eligibility

U.S. citizens who are seniors in college or have graduated within the past 12 months. Must be applying to a STEM Master's program at Churchill College, Cambridge. Must be nominated by a participating institution.

Application

Annual

Deadline

October (through nominating institutions)

Science & ResearchDeep TechClimate & EnergyHealthcare & BiotechAI & Machine Learning

About This Fellowship

The Churchill Scholarship is one of the most prestigious STEM-focused scholarships available to American students. Each year, approximately 17 scholars are selected to spend a year at Churchill College, University of Cambridge, pursuing a Master's degree (MPhil) in science, mathematics, or engineering. The program was established in 1963 as part of Sir Winston Churchill's vision for Churchill College as a center of scientific and technological excellence.

The Churchill Scholarship is notable for its sharp focus on STEM fields and its deep institutional relationship with Churchill College. Unlike broader scholarships, every Churchill Scholar is a member of the same Cambridge college, creating a tight-knit community of American scientists and engineers. The year at Cambridge provides access to world-class research groups, and many Churchill Scholars go on to pursue PhDs at leading institutions back in the United States.

The program is especially valued by students who want a focused year of advanced study and research before committing to a longer doctoral program. Churchill Scholars have gone on to become MacArthur Fellows, National Academy members, startup founders, and leaders in fields ranging from quantum computing to molecular biology to climate science.

What You Get

The Churchill Scholarship provides full financial support for one year of graduate study at Cambridge, plus several additional benefits.

  • Full tuition and fees at Churchill College, University of Cambridge
  • A generous living allowance (stipend) for the academic year
  • Round-trip airfare between the US and UK
  • A special research grant of $2,000 for travel to conferences or research expenses
  • Membership in Churchill College with access to college housing, dining, and facilities
  • Access to the Churchill Scholar alumni network, including prominent researchers and innovators
  • Some scholars are also awarded Kander Fellowships providing additional summer research funding

Selection Process

Churchill Scholars are nominated by their home institutions and then evaluated by the Winston Churchill Foundation. The process is highly selective.

  • Applicants must be nominated by one of approximately 115 participating US institutions
  • Each institution has its own internal selection process and may nominate a limited number of candidates
  • Nominations are reviewed by the Churchill Foundation's selection committee
  • Finalists are invited to in-person interviews in New York City (or virtually)
  • Selection criteria emphasize academic excellence, research potential, and character
  • Approximately 17 scholarships are awarded each year from roughly 100 nominations
  • Applicants should have a strong research record and clear plans for their Cambridge year

How to Apply

The Churchill Scholarship requires nomination from a participating institution. Start by contacting your campus Churchill advisor well before the deadline.

  • Identify and contact your institution's Churchill Scholarship advisor early (ideally spring of your junior year)
  • Prepare a research proposal or statement of purpose for your Cambridge MPhil program
  • Secure strong letters of recommendation from faculty who know your research work
  • Complete the internal campus application (deadlines vary but are often in September or October)
  • If nominated, submit the full application to the Winston Churchill Foundation
  • Applicants must be US citizens and graduating seniors or recent graduates
  • A strong quantitative and research background is expected — most successful applicants have significant lab or research experience

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