These awards vary considerably by academic program and by year of study, but constitute the principal sources of University financial aid in the divisions of the humanities and social sciences. The initial request for fellowship and scholarship assistance is made concurrently with application to the University, and thereafter on a yearly basis by request to the divisional dean of students.
Many awards are multi-year subject to good academic progress.
Awards are based primarily upon academic merit although financial need may also be considered. Since University funds for student aid are inadequate to provide awards to all applicants who meet the admission requirements, students are strongly urged to also apply for external fellowship support. Most external fellowships have application deadlines in the fall. Information on national and international fellowships can usually be obtained from fellowship or career service offices at colleges and universities. On occasion, the holder of a University of Chicago award receives later notice of outside support.