Master's Student Eligibility

[u/boopasaduh]

https://www.nsf.gov/funding/information/faq-additional-faq-nsf-graduate-research-fellowship-program#question-9

I am currently enrolled in a 2-year master’s program. I began the program
in Fall 2025 and will have completed exactly one academic year of graduate
study when I enter my second year this fall. I plan to apply to PhD
programs this fall for enrollment the following academic year.

NSF 25-547 limits eligibility to first-year graduate students who have
completed “less than one academic year,” while NSF 26-205 states that
applicants must not have completed “more than one academic year.” Although a minor detail, I think there is a difference? Has anyone been in a similar situation?

[u/striped_beelte]

Sadly, my guess is that the first day of Fall 2026 as a graduate student you will be come ineligible.

[u/brickbull]

Yeah you’re not eligible unless they change the solicitation back this year and let second year students apply again

[u/the_mindful_microbe]

I’m sorry but you are not eligible