The Government of Japan has also extended support to facilitate Quad Fellows’ studies in Japan. The Quad expressed gratitude for the generous backing from private sector partners, including Google, the Pratt Foundation, and Western Digital, for the next cohort of fellows.
The Quad Fellowship was originally instituted for supporting outstanding master’s and doctoral students pursuing studies in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in the United States. This year, the programme will expand to include students from Southeast Asian countries, in addition to four Quad countries, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. Check out this financial aid programme, its eligibility, benefits and other details. The Southeast Asian countries in which the programme has been extended to include, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam.
What is Quad Fellowship?
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue,popularly referred to as the Quad, is a diplomatic alliance involving Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. This informal strategic forum is dedicated to addressing regional security concerns and humanitarian matters.
The Quad Fellowship is a collaborative initiative launched by the governments of the founding Quad nations: Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. Announced on September 24, 2021, this scholarship programme aims to foster connections among the next generation of scientists and technologists. It operates in consultation with a non-governmental task force composed of leaders from academia, foreign policy, and private sectors across each Quad nation.
Starting in 2024, the fellowship is being managed by the Institute of International Education (IIE), a renowned global nonprofit organization that oversees many prestigious scholarship and fellowship programmes.
Eligibility for Quad Fellowship
To be eligible for the Quad Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
- Be citizens or legal permanent residents of one of the Quad countries—Australia, India, Japan, or the United States or any of the ten Southeast Asian nations: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, or Vietnam.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in a STEM field by August 2024.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record at the undergraduate level.
Benefits of Quad Fellowship
The Quad Fellowship provides a combination of financial assistance, cultural exchange, and networking for participants.
Financial Support
Each Quad Fellow will receive a one-time grant of $40,000 to assist with academic expenses, providing essential financial resources for their education.
Networking and Programming
Throughout the Fellowship, participants will have the opportunity to connect with distinguished professionals in STEM, government, and other fields, promoting valuable relationships and collaborative efforts.
Alumni Program for Senior Fellows
Upon completing the Quad Fellowship, graduates will become part of an expanding alumni network focused on driving innovation and research to achieve positive social impact. This initiative reflects the Quad’s commitment to developing future leaders.
Quad Fellowship: Application Process
The application process consists of three key components:
Online Application
This includes the submission of three essays, background information, and three letters of recommendation. At least two letters must be from professors who can evaluate the applicant’s academic strengths, while one can be from a professional or another academic contact.
Expert Review
This stage focusses on evaluating the applicant’s proficiency in their STEM discipline.
Final Panel Interview
Conducted to gauge the candidate’s enthusiasm for the intersection of STEM and social impact, this interview seeks individuals who display integrity, curiosity, and a compassionate outlook towards their community.