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Graduate Fellowship for Academic Distinction (GFAD)

Overview

Graduate Fellowships for Academic Distinction are scholarships awarded to incoming doctoral or master’s students with high potential for future leadership in international affairs; environmental protection; fine arts; and/or, political economy.

The fellowships have been supported by a generous endowment from the Sylff program, established by the Nippon Foundation and administered through the Tokyo Foundation for Policy Research. The goal of the Sylff Program is to nurture future leaders who will transcend geopolitical, religious, ethnic, and cultural boundaries in the world community for the peace and the well-being of humankind.

This scholarship is renewable for up to two years for Master's students and for 3 years for doctoral students. This is the most prestigious York internal award at the Master's level and one of the highest valued at the doctoral level.

Value and Duration

Master's Level Scholarship

  • Scholarship: up to $16,000

Doctoral Level Scholarship

  • Scholarship: up to $26,000

Duration

  • Up to 2 years of funding is available for Master’s students. Up to 3 years of funding is available for doctoral students

Eligibility

  • Master's and doctoral
  • both Domestic and international students are eligible for this award
  • Selection criteria includes:
    • Academic accomplishments
    • High potential for leadership in international matters, in public life, and in private endeavors
    • Engaged in research related to environmental protection; fine arts; and/or, political economy

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants for admission must be nominated by the graduate program.

GRADUATE PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITY

DOCUMENTATION (SUPPLIED FROM THE ADMISSIONS FILE WHERE POSSIBLE)

  • Research statement
  • Two academic letters of recommendation
  • CV
  • Transcripts

Deadlines

  • Program nomination is due to FGS by January 31.

Support

  • If you require further assistance, please contact our Scholarship & Awards Coordinator by visiting our FGS Staff Directory.