Fully Funded McDonnell International Scholarship for Masters and Doctoral Students

The 2026 McDonnell International Scholars Academy at Washington University in St. Louis is now open for applications. This program offers outstanding graduate and professional students from around the world a chance to pursue advanced study in the United States with full financial support.

Selected scholars receive full tuition coverage, a monthly living stipend, relocation and travel allowances, and access to a close-knit global community that nurtures leadership, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. In addition, the program provides mentorship, professional development, and international engagement opportunities that prepare scholars to become leaders capable of addressing complex global challenges.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about the 2026 McDonnell International Scholarship—from eligibility and benefits to the selection process and step-by-step application instructions.

About the McDonnell International Scholars Academy

At its core, the McDonnell Academy is built on a simple but powerful idea: real change happens when people from different backgrounds come together to share knowledge and work toward solutions. That’s why the Academy brings in students from across the world, representing many cultures and fields of study.cq

It’s more than a scholarship. It’s a leadership program designed to prepare future innovators, policymakers, researchers, and professionals who want to make an impact in our world today.

As a McDonnell Scholar, you will receive full financial support while also taking part in leadership workshops, cultural exchanges, mentorship, and seminars. You will join a worldwide network of peers and alumni who remain connected long after their time at the Academy.

Only about 20 scholars are admitted each year. Selection is based on academic excellence, proven leadership potential, and a genuine global outlook.

Scholarship Benefits

McDonnell Scholars receive both financial and academic support designed to ease the transition into graduate life at Washington University and to maximise their personal and professional growth. Benefits include:

• Full tuition coverage for the chosen graduate or professional degree program
• Monthly living stipend to cover day-to-day expenses
• Relocation allowance for moving to St. Louis
• Travel allowance for academic or professional purposes
• Cohort housing in modern residences within walking distance of campus
• Mentorship and leadership development through tailored programs
• Access to a worldwide network of alumni, researchers, and partner institutions

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Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the 2026 McDonnell International Scholarship, applicants must:

• Apply to an eligible doctoral or master’s program at Washington University in St. Louis
• Submit a separate application to the McDonnell International Scholars Academy in addition to their degree program application
• Have earned (or plan to earn) a bachelor’s degree or higher before July 2026
• Be applying for graduate or professional studies only (undergraduate applicants are not eligible)
• Be from any country (all are welcome to apply), though priority is given to graduates of the Academy’s Partner Universities

Selection Criteria

The Academy looks for candidates who combine academic talent with leadership potential and a commitment to global engagement. Selection is based on:

1. Academic excellence: Strong academic record, intellectual ability, and potential to contribute to one’s field
2. Global mindset: Openness to cultural exchange and commitment to addressing global issues
3. Leadership capacity: Evidence of leadership skills and ambition to drive positive change
4. Community engagement: Willingness to participate fully in Academy activities and strengthen ties within the global network

How to Apply (Step by Step)

Applications must be submitted online. Here’s the process:

1. Apply to a Washington University graduate program (doctoral or master’s).

2. Complete the separate McDonnell Academy application for scholarship consideration.

3. Prepare and submit the following materials:

• Personal essay explaining your goals and motivation
• Short video introducing yourself and your aspirations
• Recommendation letter from an academic or professional reference

4. Ensure all materials are submitted by the deadline.

After review, applicants will be notified of decisions by late March or mid-April 2026. Successful applicants will see updates on their online dashboard and receive email confirmation.

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Application Deadline

The deadline for the 2026 McDonnell International Scholarship is January 31, 2026 (11:59 PM CST).

Late applications will not be considered, so applicants are encouraged to prepare all documents well ahead of time.

Apply For The McDonnell International Scholarship