Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship

Apply

Are You Interested in a Ph.D.?

Penn MMUF is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements.  To participate in the Penn MMUF program, students must plan to enroll in a PhD program in the Humanities or Humanistic Social Sciences fields as designated by the Mellon Foundation.

2026-2027 Application Deadline:

January 30, 2026

How to Apply

Submit the online application form & requested materials through the link below.  If you have questions regarding the application procedures, contact Pat Ravenell, MMUF Administrative Coordinator, at ravenell@upenn.edu

https://upenn.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0xpVrjGdoqhyVwh

Qualifications

Qualifications to join the program include:

  • Must be a current Sophomore or Junior;
  • Academic promise (minimum GPA 3.0, average program GPA is 3.4);
  • Interest in pursuing PhD study in an eligible MMUF Field of Study;
  • Availability for, and commitment to, full and enthusiastic participation in all aspects of the MMUF program, including mandatory weekly meetings,  disciplinary conferences and other program activities;
  • Potential for serving as a mentor and teacher;
  • US citizens, permanent residents, and DACA status students all welcome to apply

View Full List of Eligible Fields of Study

What to Include With Your Application

Faculty Reference Letter

Unofficial Transcript

Resume or CV

Personal Statement

What to include in your personal statement

A concise personal statement describing how your academic and career goals would be served by the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship Program. Be sure to include information about plans for possible research or honors projects and your scholarly interests. Include other activities you have engaged in that demonstrate your ability to take responsibility, work independently, and show initiative or perseverance. Statement should be no more than 2-3 pages.