Steps to Apply for the Marshall Scholarship

Steps to Apply for the Marshall Scholarship

What is the Marshall Scholarship?

The Marshall Scholarship is a prestigious award established in 1953 by the British government in honor of General George C. Marshall, after whom the Marshall Plan—an American initiative to aid European economic recovery post-World War II—is named. The scholarship aims to strengthen the relationship between the UK and the US by supporting talented American students in pursuing postgraduate studies at any British university.

Since its inception, over 2,000 American students have benefited from the Marshall Scholarship, attending top UK universities. Notable alumni include two US Supreme Court Justices, 14 MacArthur Genius Grant recipients, six Pulitzer Prize winners, and one Nobel Prize winner, underscoring the scholarship’s distinguished reputation.

Key Benefits of the Marshall Scholarship:

• Payment of tuition fees
• Personal allowance to cover living expenses
• Travel expenses to and from the UK
• Grants for books, thesis, and research-related costs
• Daily travel allowance

The total financial value of a Marshall Scholarship is approximately £38,000 per year (about USD $49,945).

Each year, up to 50 scholarships are awarded, and while they are open for study at any UK university, applicants are particularly encouraged to consider programs at Marshall Partner Universities, which have strong affiliations with the scholarship program.

Marshall Scholarship Partner Universities

Marshall Partner Universities are a select group of UK institutions that have established strong links with the Marshall Scholarship program. These universities collaborate closely with the Marshall Scholarship Commission to offer enhanced support and opportunities to Marshall Scholars, such as additional funding, dedicated pastoral care, and tailored academic guidance.

While Marshall Scholarships are available for study at any British university, applicants are particularly encouraged to consider programs at these partner institutions due to their strong connections with the scholarship scheme. Partner Universities often provide added benefits and resources, which can enhance the overall experience of scholars.

List of Marshall Partner Universities:

1. University of Birmingham
2. University of Bristol
3. University of Cambridge
4. Cardiff University
5. Durham University
6. University of East Anglia
7. University of Edinburgh
8. University of Exeter
9. University of Glasgow
10. Imperial College London
11. King’s College London
12. University of Leeds
13. University of Liverpool
14. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
15. University of Manchester
16. Newcastle University
17. University of Nottingham
18. University of Oxford
19. Queen Mary University of London
20. Queen’s University Belfast
21. University of Sheffield
22. University of Southampton
23. University College London (UCL)
24. University of Warwick
25. University of York

These universities offer a wide range of postgraduate programs across various disciplines and provide an environment that supports the academic and personal growth of Marshall Scholars.

Marshall Partner Universities and Scholarship Pathways

The Marshall Commission collaborates with specific colleges at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.

Marshall Scholarship Pathways:

1. One-Year Masters Scholarship: For a one-year master’s program with no option for extension.
2. Two-Year Masters Scholarship: Can be used for either two separate one-year master’s programs, a two-year research master’s, or two years of a PhD program.
3. Two-Year Scholarship (with Third-Year Extension): Allows for a combination of a master’s and PhD studies. In the first year, you may start a PhD or upgrade from a master’s to a PhD before applying for an extension.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be a US citizen.
• Have completed a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited US university before starting the scholarship.
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.7 during undergraduate studies.
• Be a recent graduate, having completed your degree no earlier than three and a half years before the scholarship starts (e.g., graduating in April 2021 for a September 2024 start).
• Have no previous study experience in the UK.

Course Eligibility: Marshall Scholarships generally cover most master’s and PhD programs at UK universities but exclude:

• MBAs
• Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates
• Distance learning courses
• Courses starting in January
• Programs involving international placements

A Marshall Scholarship cannot be deferred.

Application Process:

• Applications typically open in June with a submission deadline at the end of September.
• Apply through one of eight regional centers in the US based on your study and home address:
  • Atlanta
  • Boston
  • Chicago
  • Houston
  • Los Angeles
  • New York
  • San Francisco
  • Washington DC
• Your application needs endorsement from your undergraduate university or, in some cases, your graduate school.
• Required documents include:
  • Personal statement
  • Proposed study plan
  • Post-scholarship plans
  • Leadership statement
  • Ambassadorial potential statement
  • Academic transcripts
  • CV
  • Three letters of recommendation (academic, general, and leadership-focused)

Selection Criteria:

1. Academic Merit: A minimum GPA of 3.7, evidence of extracurricular achievements, and a coherent study plan aligning with academic and career goals.
2. Leadership Potential: Demonstrated influence, achievements, self-awareness, and capacity for societal contribution through leadership.
3. Ambassadorial Potential: Understanding of US/UK relations, relevant extracurricular activities, interpersonal skills, and confidence.

Interview Process:

• Interviews typically last about 30 minutes and are conducted by a selection committee, often composed of former Marshall Scholars.
• The interview includes an introduction followed by detailed questions on your expertise, personal interests, current affairs, and potential contributions as a Marshall Scholar.
• Tailor your responses to the selection criteria and show a meaningful connection to the UK. Be prepared to discuss current events and the motivations behind your chosen program and institution.