Switzer Environmental Fellowship
Offered by Robert and Patricia Switzer Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Switzer Environmental Fellowship is a one-year award for graduate students whose careers will focus on environmental improvement. Each year 20 fellows are chosen from hundreds of applicants, and the program, once limited to New England and California, is now open to graduate students across the United States and its territories.
Fellows receive an unrestricted $18,000 cash award paid in June and January, two multi-day leadership retreats, career coaching and lifelong access to a network of more than 800 past fellows, along with later grant opportunities for alumni.
The award is not need-based. Reviewers score environmental commitment, applied focus, problem-solving, leadership potential, collaboration, social equity awareness and communication, and the essay and resume carry the most weight. Finalists have a virtual panel interview in May.
Eligibility
- U.S. citizen, permanent resident, DACA recipient, refugee or asylee (international students are not eligible)
- Enrolled in an accredited graduate program in the United States or a U.S. territory, not an online program
- Enrolled for the full 2027-28 academic year
- Master's and J.D. candidates must have finished at least one term by the end of 2026 and be seeking a terminal master's
- Ph.D. candidates must have advanced to candidacy by the deadline
How To Apply
- Read the fellowship guidelines and evaluation rubric on the Switzer Foundation site
- Write the application essay and prepare a current resume
- Ask two people who can speak to your leadership to submit letters by the deadline
- Upload an unofficial transcript if an official one is not available
- Submit online by 11:59 p.m. Pacific on December 14, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fellowship still limited to New England and California?
No. It is now open to graduate students across the United States and U.S. territories.
Is financial need considered?
No. The foundation says this is not a need-based award.
Can students in online programs apply?
No. Students in online programs are not eligible.