The Mellon Fellowships are awarded to exceptionally promising students who are committed to teaching and scholarly careers in humanistic studies. The competition is open to college seniors or graduates of the last five years who have not yet begun graduate study. Previously unsuccessful candidates for the Mellon Fellowship may not be considered a second time. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Applications are available only upon request by individual applicants.
In addition to the standard materials, candidates must submit the results of the Graduate Record Examination General Test. Regional committees conduct a preliminary screening based on the submitted credentials and personal interviews. Following the interviews the regional committees recommend finalists to the national committee that makes the final selections. The Mellon Foundation stresses that high grades and Graduate Record Examination scores are not the only standards of excellence sought. Evidence of maturity and promise of outstanding achievement are critical to a successful application.