Dean's Merit Award Grant

The Dean's Merit Award at the University of Montana aims to attract exceptional out-of-state graduate students by offering a significant tuition reduction. This prestigious award is part of the university's commitment to academic excellence and diversity. Recipients are chosen based on their outstanding achievements in national and international programs, ensuring they possess the promise to contribute meaningfully to the academic community and beyond. This initiative not only enhances the university's educational environment but also fosters a vibrant cultural exchange.

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.
In an effort to recruit out-of-state graduate students of exceptional merit and ability, the Graduate School has established the Dean’s Merit Award (DMA) under Montana Board of Regents (BoR) Higher Education Policy #940.31 (adopted:  March 20, 2003 / revised:  November 19, 2010). This policy provides a means to develop a tuition reduction program (to 100% of resident tuition) for a limited number of out-of-state graduate students who have won prestigious scholarships from national and international programs of distinction (e.g., Fulbright).

Eligibility

The Graduate Council will establish a process for domestic or international programs of distinction to be designated as a DMA ‘Program of Excellence,’ approved by the Graduate Dean. Programs must have a national, competitive selection process and represent the highest standards of excellence in a field. Students recruited under this award must show the promise to contribute substantially to the University through research, academic performance, and future professional potential.