Overview:

The Churchill Scholarship provides funding to American students for a year of Master’s study in science, mathematics, and engineering at the University of Cambridge, based at Churchill College. The Scholarship was set up at the request of Sir Winston Churchill in order to fulfill his vision of US-UK scientific exchange with the goal of advancing science and technology on both sides of the Atlantic, helping to ensure our future prosperity and security. Churchill Scholars receive funding for one year of graduate study, including tuition, stipend, and travel expenses. 

The selection criteria include:

• Outstanding academic achievement
• Proven talent in research
• Outstanding personal qualities

Eligibility:

• U.S. citizen
• Senior or recent alumnus/a (graduated within the past 12 months of application)
• 3.7 GPA or higher (3.8 or higher, highly recommended)

 Application Process: 

• Penn State is required to nominate candidates, so students should follow this on-campus nomination process to be considered:

• Step 1: Email URFM@psu.edu your intent to apply.
• Step 2: Meet with URFM staff to go over the application process and scholarship details. Appointments can be made via Starfish or by contacting URFM.
• Step 3: Complete the Churchill Application.  This can be obtained by emailing URFM@ psu.edu.  The application will include:
  • Essay prompts
  • A CV
  • A recent transcript
  • Proposed Program of Study
  • 3 recommendations addressed to the UK Awards Nomination Committee must be emailed separately by the recommender to URFM@psu.edu.  Recommendations should include at least 1 academic recommendation. You will also be required to include in your application the name of 1 additional recommender that will be included in your final Churchill application should you be nominated by Penn State. Information on appropriate recommenders can be found on the Churchill Scholarship website.
• Step 4: Successful applicants will be invited for an interview with the Penn State UK Awards Nomination Committee after the applicable office deadline.

Office Application Deadline -August 10, 2025

Given that the university is required to nominate its candidates, there is an office application deadline and a campus evaluation process. 

 National Application Deadline -November 3, 2025  

Application materials required by the Churchill Scholarship must be submitted online via the portal and include an institutional letter of support prepared by the URFM office.