Student Fellowships
Leave the four walls of your classroom behind; embark on a unique journey sure to transform your life and energize the classroom. As a fellow you will work side by side with a scientist conducting field research. You will contribute to our understanding of the environment, have a direct impact on urgent issues, and will ultimately inspire your classmates and community.
Earthwatch Student Fellowships offer students with limited exposure to science the opportunity to experience research first hand. Earthwatch Institute, a non-profit organization, has supported scientific research since 1971 by sending volunteers on research projects throughout the world.
Fellowship Eligibility
Earthwatch seeks high school students with limited experiences in the sciences who are creative and inventive thinkers, motivated learners and eager to increase their understanding of science and nature. A combination of level-headedness and lively imagination mark these students as intelligent nonconformists. Leadership, commitment, and communication skills show their potential to make a difference. These students are respected by their teachers and classmates, and can handle the social and intellectual challenges of being a member of a small research team composed of bright teens, graduate students, and scientists.
Students may apply directly. We also encourage high school teachers and counselors to nominate 1-2 students with limited opportunities for enrichment and resources, and no prior experience helping a scientist conduct research. Current juniors are preferred, but we welcome and accept high school sophomores, juniors and seniors, who will be at least 16 years old before June 15, 2007. Students with disabilities may be eligible for this program (please inquire).
Fellowships are awarded through a competitive application process. When considering applications, the applicant's geographic region and the potential impact of participating on an Earthwatch expedition are taken into consideration. Criteria used to assign fellows to expeditions include fellow interests, skills and availability along with project need, and grant restrictions. Contact us directly with any specific questions regarding our review process at FellowshipAwards@earthwatch.org
Student Challenge Awards Program
The Student Challenge Awards Program is open to students age 16 - 18 in the United States. Learn more about this special intensive program.
Specific Local and Regional Opportunities
The Earthwatch Student Fellowship program is comprised of many grants. Some of the fellowships offered, have additional criteria or requirements. Regions or states listed below fall into that category. This list is provided as supplemental information, and there is no need to submit multiple applications to Earthwatch. Every application received will be considered for all fellowships available to the applicant. If you do not see your region or state below please refer to the information above on the Student Challenge Awards Program (SCAP), or visit the following page to find resources and tools for funding yourself. For more information regarding program details in your area, visit these pages:
Current Available Student Fellowships and Applications
| Fellowships |
State |
Deadline |
| Delmarva |
DE, MD, VA |
Rolling |
| Dallas |
TX |
Rolling |