National Science Foundation's 2009
Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)
How to Proceed with the GRFP Application Process
First, read the funding announcement to determine your eligibility for the 2009 GRFP (link below). The checklist on this page provides suggested dates for completing the application process by the early November 2008 deadlines. To apply for the GRFP you will need to write three short essays, complete online information forms, and submit three reference letters and official transcripts. After you register in FastLane (link to this e-submission system below), you will find additional instructions and requirements. Below you will also find guidesheets that are designed to help you appropriately address the essay questions and organize your ideas.
- Your link to the Official 2009 GRFP Funding Announcement and Deadlines
- The first task you should undertake is to familiarize yourself with the fellowship instructions. Click on this link to NSF's official 2009 GRFP funding announcement, which NSF calls a "program solicitation." It explains the purpose of the program, eligibility requirements, deadlines, and award amounts.
- Checklist for Completing the Application Process by the Deadline
- This checklist, based on a similar form used by grant writers, contains a list of tasks you must accomplish in order to complete your GRFP application by your discipline-specific deadline.
- FastLane E-Submission System
- This link takes you to NSF's secure site where you can enter the FastLane system for the GRFP. A link to the official User Guide may be found on this same Fastlane page.
- A Guide Sheet to the 2009 Personal Statement (Essay)
- This handout contains the instructions for the first 2009 GRFP essay, your personal statement. Included are writing strategies and tips for writer's block.
- A Guide Sheet to the 2009 Previous Research Experience Essay
- This handout includes tips for writing the 2009 Previous Research Experience essay. Note: The NSF also provides instructions for applicants without direct research experience. Think broadly about your skills and ability to conduct research!
- A Guide Sheet to the 2009 Proposed Plan of Research Essay
- Your research essay must sound rigorous and scholarly. Make certain that you work closely with your adviser (mentor) on your research plan. Note: The NSF provides specific instructions on sections you must address and what to do if you have not yet determined your research topic. Don't forget to include key citations and a statement of originality. If you have not developed a research plan before, please see this Research Plan Worksheet
- Self-scoring Rubric
- This is NOT an official document. Rather, this rubric is designed to help you improve your essay drafts. After you have completed the three essays, think about the overall impression you will make with reviewers. To be highly competitive, proposals must include elements from the third column of the rubric. Suggestion: When you ask others to review your drafts, you can share a copy of this rubric. It will help them focus their feedback on the key elements you need to address to become highly competitive. Before submitting your essays, be sure to address the official scoring criteria -- Intellectual Merit and Broader Impacts.
- Reference Letter Instructions
- This documents provides an overview of how to submit a reference letter and where to find additional information. Included are FAQs, copied directly from NSF materials, that explain what topics should be addressed in the letter.
- 2009 GRFP Review Process, Evaluation Criteria & Award Notification
- This handout, copied from the NSF program solicitation, explains the review process, scoring criteria, and notification date.
- NSF’s FastLane User Guide
- Before you start working in NSF’s e-submission system, called FastLane, be sure to review this booklet from NSF. It contains helpful screen shots and explanations of the GRFP application process using FastLane. A section for reference letter writers is included.
GRFP Resources in Blackboard
Current MU students may go to Blackboard for additional GRFP resources, including essay examples, tutorial, tips, links, and worksheets in MS Word. Login to Blackboard, and go to the My Mizzou tab. In the organization catalog, select the student folder. Look for Writer's Resources for Fellowships, Scholarships, and Grants (ID: Grad_Writer). Click enroll. Please contactDr. Robin G. Walkerin the Graduate School's Communications Unit if you have questions.
Notifying MU that you are a 2009 Fellowship Recipient
Award winners will be notified in March 2009. If you accept a 2009 GRFP award, and you plan to attend MU, you must notify the fiscal person in the MU Graduate School to set up an account. To learn what to do, stop by 210 Jesse Hall or call 573.882.6311 and ask for Ruth Erwin. Please do this as soon as possible after you accept your fellowshihp. Staff members at MU must take several steps to process your fellowship, in order for you to receive your monthly stipend in the fall. Additional information on how MU internally processes the GRFP fellowship awards is available in PDF Thank you!