Fellowships| Computer Science | SIU

Home
Southern Illinois University

CONTACT

SIU.EDU

College of Engineering, Computing, Technology, and Mathematics

Opportunities

Fellowships

Fellowships

Fellowships and Opportunities

  

For Graduate Students

Many qualified graduate students in Computer Science receive financial support in the form of teaching or research assistantships. Appointments are normally made on half-time bases, committing the student to 20 hours of work per week. The stipend associated with such assistantships is $1000 per month for half-time appointments. Also, tuition fees are waived. Ordinarily, a student whose academic progress and performance of duties has been satisfactory is eligible for reappointment. Students who hold an assistantship normally take nine credit hours per semester.

Students who receive an offer of a graduate assistantship are selected, on a competitive basis, from among those who have been admitted to the graduate program in Computer Science. The main criteria used in making this selection are the quality of the academic background of the student and his/her knowledge and skills about the assigned responsibilities. In addition, other factors may be taken into consideration. These include GRE scores, TOEFL scores (when applicable), letters of recommendation, and the overall reputation of the student's undergraduate institution. If the School of Computing cannot provide an assistantship since the number is limited, you may check the SIUC Graduate School's web page on Graduate Administrative Assistantship Job Postings for possible employment, which should include tuition waivers, too. If you cannot find a job before you arrive, our graduate students usually do not have difficulty finding on-campus employment due to their computer skills and background.

Fellowships

In addition to assistantships, a limited number of SIU graduate fellowships are available to academically superior students.

Please note that the listed fellowships below are external resources and eligibility criteria may vary. We encourage you to visit the respective fellowship websites for the most current information.

Fellowships For Masters

Fellowships For PhD

Disclaimer

Please note that the information provided here is subject to change. We advise students to visit the official websites for the most current information and eligibility criteria. We only include the above weblinks as references and are not liable if their perspective website owner changes hands. Please verify the site prior to providing any personal information or clicking the link.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide on the Application Process for Fellowships

  1. Research and Select Fellowships: Begin by researching the fellowships listed on our page. Select those that align with your academic goals and research interests.

  2. Check Eligibility Requirements: Carefully read the eligibility criteria for each fellowship you are interested in. Ensure that you meet all the requirements before applying.

  3. Prepare Application Materials: This may include your resume or CV, academic transcripts, essays or personal statements, research proposals, and any other required documents. Students are encouraged to visit Career Services for assistance with their resumes and other career-related matters.

  4. Request Recommendations: Contact professors or professionals who know you well and can provide strong letters of recommendation.

  5. Write a Research Proposal (if required): Some fellowships require a detailed research proposal. Ensure this is well-structured, clear, and aligns with the fellowship's goals.

  6. Submit Application: Fill out the application form accurately and attach all required documents. Double-check for errors before submitting.

  7. Follow Up: After submitting, keep an eye on your email for any communication regarding your application.

Eligibility Criteria: Detailed Information on the Eligibility Requirements for Each Fellowship

  • Academic Excellence: Most fellowships require a strong academic record.
  • Research Interests: Your research interests should align with the fellowship's focus areas.
  • Level of Study: Some fellowships are specific to Masters or Ph.D. level students.
  • Citizenship or Residency Requirements: Certain fellowships may have restrictions based on citizenship or residency.
  • Other Specific Criteria: Some fellowships have unique requirements, such as a commitment to certain career paths or areas of research.

Deadlines and Notifications

  • Keep a calendar of application deadlines for each fellowship.
  • Note the expected dates for notifications of acceptance or rejection.

Fellowship Tips: Advice on Preparing a Strong Application

  1. Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare a thorough application.
  2. Customize Applications: Tailor your application materials for each fellowship.
  3. Highlight Achievements: Clearly showcase your academic and research achievements.
  4. Proofread: Ensure your application is free of errors.
  5. Seek Feedback: Get input from mentors or peers on your application materials.

FAQs: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Fellowships and the Application Process

  1. Q: Can I apply for multiple fellowships? A: Yes, you can apply for as many as you are eligible for.
  2. Q: What makes a strong letter of recommendation? A: A strong letter is one that provides specific examples of your achievements and potential.
  3. Q: How important is the research proposal? A: For research-focused fellowships, it's a critical component of your application.
  4. Q: What should I do if I miss a deadline? A: Unfortunately, late applications are rarely accepted. Focus on other opportunities and plan better for the next cycle.