Alex G. Booth Fellowship

The following eligibility criteria apply to the Booth Fellowship:

• Applicants must be graduating Harvard College seniors.
• Applicants of any citizenship or residency status may apply.
• Applicants must review and abide by URAF’s Principles and Policies for Applicants.

The fellowship provides a stipend based on the proposed project budget and available funding. The stipend may be used to defray travel and other eligible project expenses.

The selection committee looks for projects that grow from an applicant’s intellectual interests and offer a meaningful opportunity to be challenged and broaden their horizons. In reviewing applications, the committee considers:

• The applicant’s initiative in developing the project, the clarity of their planned activities and role, and the project’s particular meaning for them
• The connection between the project and the applicant’s intellectual interests
• The feasibility of the plan, including the fit among its activities, location, duration, budget, safety considerations, and any organizational affiliation
• The applicant’s preparation and relevant skills, as well as their inquisitiveness, courage, and eagerness to learn
• The recommendation letter’s assessment of the applicant’s ability to carry out the project and the qualities they would bring to it

A staff and faculty committee reviews applications. Approximately 20 finalists are selected in late March for asynchronous interviews in early April. Awards are announced shortly thereafter.

The application consists of a few parts that you will complete and upload within or solicit via the application system. All items are due by our deadline, including letter(s).

1. Online Application Form. Provide basic information about yourself (background, major, interests, etc.).

2. Budget + Budget Narrative

• List all anticipated project expenses (e.g., travel, accommodations, food, visas, health insurance, supplies, research access fees, tuition).
• Include a brief budget narrative (maximum one page) explaining these expenses.

3. Proposal.  Submit a statement of up to 1,000 words explaining why you are seeking the Booth Fellowship and how you plan to use it. Describe your proposed activities and your role in them; how the project relates to an existing intellectual interest and why it matters to you; how you have prepared to carry it out; and how the experience will challenge you and expand your horizons.

4. Letter of Recommendation

• One letter addressing the suitability of your project and relevant skills or qualities.
• The recommender does not need to be a faculty member—choose someone best positioned to evaluate your project and abilities.
• The letter should be addressed to The Booth Fellowship Selection Committee.
• Request the upload directly through the portal via the Request section; the letter is due by the application deadline.

5. [Optional] Affiliation Letter. If your project involves an established organization, include a letter confirming your affiliation. It should outline:

• Basic information about the organization
• Your responsibilities, expected hours, compensation (if any), and project duration
• Request the upload directly through the portal via the Request section; the letter is due by the application deadline.

6. Résumé. A one-page résumé highlighting significant activities, achievements, and experiences that reflect your interests and values. Include extracurriculars and hobbies.

7. Transcript. Upload an unofficial transcript from my.harvard.edu that includes your fall grades and spring course registration.

URAF recommends that applicants heavily research the logistics of their proposed activities. Applicants are encouraged to visit URAF to read reports from previous fellows to get an idea of the variety of projects that are eligible for funding. Projects over 12 months will not be considered.

Booth Fellows must pursue their approved project full-time, follow the terms of their award agreement, and comply with applicable Harvard travel, safety, and research policies. Fellows must notify URAF when their project begins, obtain written approval before making material changes or taking on other commitments during the funded period, and submit the required mid-term and final reports.