UMN Graduate School: Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship (DDF) Grant

The University of Minnesota's Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship (DDF) supports outstanding Ph.D. candidates in completing their dissertations. Awardees receive a $25,000 stipend, tuition coverage for up to 14 credits per semester, health insurance, and a $1,000 conference grant. Candidates must pass preliminary exams, complete coursework by spring 2026, and expect to graduate in 2027. Nominations are required, and the application process is open from September to May each year.

The Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship (DDF) gives the University's most accomplished Ph.D. candidates an opportunity to devote full-time effort to an outstanding research project by providing time to finalize and write their dissertation during the fellowship year.
How much is the award?
$25,000 stipend, academic year tuition at the general graduate rate for up to 14 credits per semester, subsidized health insurance through the Graduate Assistant Health Plan for up to one calendar year, and a $1,000 conference grant.
DDF Conference Funding Request
The DDF Conference Request supports a recipient’s presentation of dissertation research at a conference that occurs during the DDF award year, September 1st through August 31st.
The application form, which includes instructions and more information, is linked in the DDF Terms & Conditions. Applications are accepted on the 1st of every month, September through May, during a recipient’s DDF tenure.

Eligibility

Please reach out to your Director of Graduate Studies or Graduate Program Coordinator.

Ineligibility

No, the second letter of recommendation must be from a non-advisor. Your co-advisor can co-author the first letter with your advisor. A committee member or other non-advisor can author the second letter.