Next deadline: Late March 2027
The National Institutes of Health Undergraduate Scholarship (NIH UGSP) is a financial need-based scholarship award for undergraduates who are committed to biomedical, behavioral and social science research. The award provides up to $20,000 per academic year for tuition, educational, and reasonable living expenses. Scholarships are awarded for one year and can be renewed up to two years. Recipients also receive a strong cohort experience throughout their NIH training, professional development programs focused on core competencies needed for success in research and healthcare careers, and educational and career advising. For every year of scholarship support, scholars commit to two paid service obligations in the NIH Intramural Research Program: 1) a ten-week full-time summer internship at the NIH immediately following the year of scholarship support; and 2) one year of full-time work at the NIH post-graduation (this service obligation may be deferred until completion of an advanced degree program).
After reviewing the eligibility requirements below, prospective applicants should make an advising appointment with Keila Diehl, the NIH UGSP campus representative.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for UGSP, you must:
• be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a full-time undergraduate at an accredited four-year college or university and have at least one full year left in their undergraduate education at the time of application (current seniors are not eligible to apply)
• have a GPA of 3.3 or greater on a 4.0 scale, or rank within the top 5% of your class
• demonstrate “exceptional financial need” (EFN) certified by your undergraduate institution’s financial aid office
• be able to pass a federal background check (read the full terms and conditions)
You are not eligible for UGSP if any one of the following applies to you:
• You have already been awarded an undergraduate degree
• You are currently enrolled in an advanced degree program, such as a master’s degree
• You are unable to fulfill the payback requirements.
Selection Criteria
Successful UGSP applicants are well-rounded students with research experience, a strong academic record, and a commitment to extracurricular activities.
Application Requirements
• Create NIH Application Center profile
• College transcript
• CV/Resume
• Personal Statement
• Email address of financial aid officer at your institution who can complete EFN certification
• Names and contact information of three references (will receive a request to submit a letter after you submit your application)
For more information about this opportunity, visit the NIH Undergraduate Scholarship website (opens external site).
