Graduate School Merit Award (Summary Table)
Graduate School Merit Award (Summary Table)
For New/Incoming Ph.D. Students
| Assistantship | Best For | Key Focus | Eligibility Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edward A. Bouchet Assistantship | Students pursuing a doctoral degree who demonstrate commitment to becoming faculty/researchers in academia | Preparing future professors and scholars who embody academic excellence & values of the professoriate | Strong intent to join the professoriate or to advance scholarship in academia |
| Frederick Douglass Assistantship | Students pursuing a doctoral degree who demonstrate academic promise, leadership, and commitment to Howard’s mission and making impact—whether within academia, industry, policy, or community-focused roles | Academic excellence, leadership, and advancement toward a Ph.D. | Open to all students who want to pursue high-impact careers but not exclusively focused on faculty roles and who do not meet McNair Assistantship eligibility |
| Ronald E. McNair Assistantship | Former undergraduate McNair Scholars continuing toward the Ph.D. | Strengthening the McNair Scholar pipeline to doctoral completion and academic leadership | Proof of prior participation in a McNair Scholars program |
Note: You may apply to only one assistantship.
What should my competitive merit-based assistantship essay highlight?
Each Graduate School competitive application supports a distinct mission and student profile, so you must tailor your essay to the assistantship you select. Below is some guidance:
| Assistantship | Essay Focus |
|---|---|
| Edward A. Bouchet Assistantship | Clearly articulate how your past preparation, research vision, and future aspirations align with the professoriate and with a commitment to academic community |
| Frederick Douglass Assistantship | Clearly articulate how your past preparation embodies scholarly excellence, and outline your doctoral goals, leadership, and alignment with Howard’s mission |
| Ronald E. McNair Assistantship | Clearly articulate how your experience as a McNair Scholar shaped your research commitment and career trajectory and highlight your readiness for the Ph.D. |
What does a strong merit award application essay include for all of them?
In addition to the merit award application requirements outlined above, all essays should demonstrate:
- Evidence of scholarly ability & research readiness
- Clear career plans tied to doctoral training
- Connection between your background and motivation and alignment with the assistantship’s mission.
- Strong writing, critical thinking, and alignment with Howard’s values
The committee will also review your autobiographical sketch/statement and the research statement (statement of academic interest and professional goals) you submitted as part of your graduate program application.
Who can I contact with questions about the competitive merit assistantship awards?
Students should contact the Graduate School funding and fellowship office at graduateschool@howard.edu for any clarification or with any questions.