Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship is a competitive funding program designed for immigrants and children of immigrants pursuing a master’s degree at a U.S. institution. The fellowship aims to support newcomers who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and a commitment to contributing to American society.
Each year, the fellowship awards up to thirty new fellows, providing up to ninety thousand dollars toward tuition and living expenses. It is named after Paul and Daisy Soros, philanthropists and immigrants who embodied the potential of education to transform lives.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1997 |
| Founder | Paul and Daisy Soros |
| Funding Amount | Up to $90,000 |
| Eligible Degree | Master’s program |
| Annual Awards | Up to 30 new fellows |
| Citizenship Requirement | U.S. permanent resident, naturalized citizen, or DACA recipient |
| Country of Origin | Outside the United States |
The Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship Mission
The fellowship seeks individuals who plan to use their education to address critical challenges at home and abroad. Fellows are expected to become leaders who bridge cultures and create measurable impact in their fields.
Eligibility and Application Process Insight
Applicants must hold U.S. permanent resident status, citizenship, or DACA status and have been born outside the United States. They also need to be admitted to a full-time master’s program at an accredited U.S. institution for the upcoming academic year.
The application emphasizes leadership experience, community impact, and a clear articulation of career goals. Candidates submit essays, academic records, recommendation letters, and proof of degree program admission.
Career Advancement for Immigrant Professionals
Recipients often report accelerated career growth due to reduced financial stress and access to the fellowship’s alumni network. The program connects fellows with mentors, employers, and peers across industries, strengthening their professional trajectory.
Many alumni attribute new job offers, promotions, and entrepreneurial opportunities to the visibility and credibility the fellowship provides in competitive job markets.
Fields of Study and Innovation Focus
The fellowship supports a wide range of disciplines, including public policy, education, public health, engineering, data science, and business. Applicants are encouraged to pursue degrees that align with their plans to drive systemic change.
Innovation projects, research proposals, and social ventures developed during the fellowship often receive additional institutional and external support, amplifying their reach and sustainability.
Community and Alumni Engagement
Fellows join a lifelong network of more than two thousand alumni who remain active in policy, entrepreneurship, and social impact. The fellowship hosts events, webinars, and regional meetups to sustain collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Key Takeaways for Prospective Immigrant Leaders
- Target master’s programs that align with your long-term impact goals.
- Prepare strong essays that highlight leadership, adaptation, and community contribution.
- Secure recommendation letters that speak to your character and potential.
- Leverage alumni resources and mentorship opportunities after receiving the award.
- Use the funding to reduce debt and focus on internships, research, and projects.
FAQ
Reader questions
What types of master’s programs are eligible for the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship?
Eligible programs include any accredited U.S. master’s degree that full-time students can complete within one to three years, such as public policy, education, public health, engineering, data science, and business.
Can DACA recipients apply for the Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowship?
Yes, DACA recipients are eligible as long as they meet the citizenship criteria, have been born outside the United States, and are admitted to a qualifying U.S. master’s program.
How does the fellowship support students beyond funding?
Beyond funding, the fellowship offers mentorship, career coaching, access to a large alumni network, and opportunities to collaborate on civic and professional initiatives nationwide.
What is the typical timeline for application review and award notifications?
The fellowship usually announces finalists in late winter and notifies all applicants of decisions by early spring, with funds disbursed at the start of the academic year.