Most all applications are now available for downloading and printing your own copy. Read through the application materials carefully, writing down any questions you may have. Talk with your faculty adviser or the faculty member with whom you are working on a research or creative project about your goals and your interest in fellowship applications. Provide them with specific criteria letters need to address. It is never too early to start.
Most applications are very time-consuming.
Preparing seriously for several fellowship programs, and being successful, may take as much effort as completing an academic course at the university. The rewards are worth the effort. Realize that the committee or board that put together this application form spent a lot of time formulating the questions. Each word is included in each question for a reason. Speak directly to the question posed.