Besancon Scholarship Grant

The Besancon Scholarship at the University of Montana supports graduate students in eligible disciplines such as biological sciences, chemistry, geology, mathematical sciences, and physics. Candidates must be accepted or enrolled in a master’s or doctoral program and nominated by their respective programs. This scholarship fosters academic excellence and innovation, contributing to the university's mission of transformative education and community engagement in Montana.

University of Montana
The University of Montana (UM), located in Missoula, is a flagship public research university dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and public service. As a premier institution in the Rocky Mountain West, UM offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs supported by world-class faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and a strong commitment to research that addresses regional and global challenges. The university fosters an environment where curiosity, exploration, and creativity thrive, preparing students to become leaders in their fields and engaged citizens in their communities.
Its vision emphasizes student success, inclusive academic opportunity, and building a vibrant, sustainable campus community that contributes to the cultural, environmental, and economic vitality of Montana and beyond. The institution prioritizes excellence in teaching and research, respect for place and culture, and a commitment to stewardship, innovation, and public impact.
The Besancon donor is specific about which disciplines are eligible for the scholarship.  Eligible programs are biological sciences, chemistry, geology, mathematical sciences, physics or other pure physical sciences.  To meet the donor’s requirements, only incoming or currently enrolled graduate students are eligible to apply. Students apply directly to their programs.  The eligible programs will nominate students to the Graduate School. Each program, that nominates a student, needs to identify a faculty member who will participate in the selection process.

Eligibility

Applicants must be accepted to or enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program at The Graduate School of The University of Montana in one of the eligible disciplines.Applicants must be nominated by their program.