Apply for the 2026 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for Immigrants in the United States
For immigrants and children of immigrants, the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans 2026 present a powerful opportunity to pursue graduate education in the United States. This highly respected fellowship offers up to $90,000 in financial support and is built to recognize academic excellence, originality, and a strong desire to contribute meaningfully to American society.
This program goes far beyond funding. It is an acknowledgment of perseverance, identity, and purpose. Whether your path leads to medicine, law, business, science, public service, or the arts, the fellowship is designed to support individuals whose ambitions are matched by their commitment to impact.
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Applications are now open, and the journey begins with a single step.
Apply for the 2026 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for Immigrants in the United States
About the Fellowship
Founded in 1998, the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships were established to celebrate and support the lasting contributions of immigrants to the United States. Over the years, the program has awarded more than $80 million to over 800 fellows representing more than 100 countries. These fellows have gone on to make significant contributions in diverse fields such as engineering, neuroscience, literature, music, education, and public leadership.
Each year, 30 exceptional individuals are selected based on academic achievement, leadership promise, and a clear commitment to service. The fellowship provides financial support over a two-year period, helping cover tuition, academic fees, and living expenses at any accredited graduate institution in the U.S. In addition to funding, fellows gain lifelong access to a dynamic and influential community of peers and alumni.
Fellowship Benefits
- Up to $90,000 to support tuition and living expenses over two years
- Eligibility across all disciplines, including professional, research, and creative programs
- Membership in a strong, purpose-driven network of fellows and alumni
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 fellowship cycle, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Age: Must be 30 years old or younger at the time of application
- Immigration Background: Open to immigrants and children of immigrants, including naturalized citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and asylees. Applicants without permanent status may still be eligible if they completed both high school and undergraduate studies in the U.S.
- Graduate Study: Must be applying to or enrolled in their first graduate or professional degree program in the United States for the 2026–2027 academic year
Application Requirements
Applying for the fellowship requires thoughtful preparation and self-reflection. Applicants must submit:
- Personal and eligibility information, including immigration background
- Official academic transcripts from all institutions attended
- A résumé or CV highlighting accomplishments, leadership, and community involvement
- Two in-depth essays: one exploring personal background and identity as a New American, and another outlining academic and professional aspirations
- Three to five letters of recommendation, with at least one from an academic reference
The strongest applications tell a compelling story—connecting personal experience, cultural heritage, and future goals into a clear vision of impact and purpose.
What Makes This Fellowship Unique
What sets the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships apart is its celebration of the immigrant experience. Rather than viewing background as a barrier, the program recognizes it as a source of strength. Fellows are selected not only for intellectual ability, but also for their potential to uplift communities and shape the future. By investing in their education, the fellowship elevates voices that bring diversity, insight, and leadership to American society.
Final Reflections
The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans represent more than financial support. They are an investment in leadership, identity, and long-term influence. For students and early-career professionals with immigrant roots and a strong sense of purpose, this fellowship offers a chance to move forward with confidence.
The 2026 application cycle is now underway. Take time to reflect on your journey, prepare your application carefully, and present your story with clarity and conviction. This opportunity could play a defining role in your academic future while honoring the path that brought you here.
