Astronaut Scholar

• U.S citizen (native born or naturalized)
• Full-time sophomore or junior (1-2 years of study remaining after applying)
• Strong GPA (3.8 or higher recommended)
• Intend to pursue a research career in a natural science, mathematics or engineering.
• Must be a full-time student during both semesters of Astronaut Scholarship Foundation support (junior or senior year)
• Must have conducted a considerable amount of work outside the classroom in their chosen field of study. This may include laboratory research, cooperative education, internships, relevant military experience, entrepreneurial endeavors, and/or documented independent work resulting in technical papers, patents, or similar work product

Astronaut Scholarship selection criteria include:

• Display of creativity and ability to move into unknown territory
• Potential, ability, and drive to do research, develop new ideas, pursue inventions, and pursue innovative technologies
• Exhibition of motivation, imagination, and exceptional performance in their field of academics and/or research
• Conveyance of intellectual daring and a genuine desire to positively change the world around them, from both, or either, within the classroom or in their community
• Recognized as a leader through their activities on campus or in the community

• A completed application form (To receive a copy of the form and begin an application, please email fellowships@osu.edu.)
• A 1 pg. personal statement detailing research experience, accomplishments/activities in STEM, and your career aspirations
• 1 - 2 pg. CV or resume
• 2 letters of recommendation from STEM research advisors and/or professors emailed directly to fellowships@osu.edu
• Academic transcripts

Campus Application Deadline – February 26, 2024

Campus Application Process

Because the university is required to nominate candidates for this opportunity, there is an internal application process. For support on your application, reach out to fellowships@osu.edu at any time while the applications are open.

Please submit all of the materials listed above, including letters of recommendation, to fellowships@osu.edu by 5 pm on the campus deadline. After a review of applications, we will contact all applicants to announce the campus nominee. From that point, Undergraduate Fellowship Office staff will work with nominee to revise materials in advance of the national deadline.

National Application Deadline – March 2024

All application materials must be submitted to fellowships@osu.edu in advance of the national deadline. Undergraduate Fellowship Office staff will communicate about deadlines with nominee.