The Amelia Earhart Fellowship stands as one of the most prestigious scholarship opportunities for women pursuing advanced degrees in aerospace engineering and related sciences.
Established by Zonta International in 1938, this fellowship honors the legacy of pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart, who disappeared during her attempted flight around the world in 1937.
The fellowship aims to carry forward her spirit of determination and excellence by supporting women who seek to follow in her footsteps in the fields of aerospace and aviation.
What is the Amelia Earhart Fellowship?
The Amelia Earhart Fellowship is a competitive international scholarship program that awards grants to women pursuing doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering, space sciences, and related fields.
Each year, approximately 30 fellows from around the world receive this distinguished award, which includes financial support to help advance their academic and research endeavors.
Fellowship Details
Award Amount: $10,000 USD
Number of Awards: Approximately 30 fellowships awarded annually
Eligibility Focus: Women of any nationality pursuing Ph.D./doctoral degrees in aerospace engineering, space sciences, or related fields
Administering Organization: Zonta International Foundation
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Amelia Earhart Fellowship, applicants must:
- Identify as a woman
- Be enrolled in a full-time Ph.D./doctoral program in aerospace engineering, space sciences, or a related field
- Have completed at least one year of doctoral-level studies by the application deadline
- Demonstrate a superior academic record
- Not have previously received an Amelia Earhart Fellowship
Fields of Study Covered
The fellowship supports research in a wide range of aerospace-related disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Aeronautical Engineering
- Space Sciences
- Astronautical Engineering
- Control Systems
- Guidance Navigation
- Aerospace Systems
- Aerodynamics
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering (with focus on aerospace applications)
- Materials Science (with aerospace applications)
- Mechanical Engineering (with aerospace applications)
Application Process
The application process for the Amelia Earhart Fellowship is comprehensive and designed to identify candidates who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, research potential, and commitment to advancing aerospace sciences.
Required Application Materials
- Completed Application Form: Available on the Zonta International website
- Personal Statement: A detailed essay outlining your academic and professional goals
- Research Proposal: A clear description of your current research project
- Academic Transcripts: Official records from all universities attended
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from academic advisors or professors familiar with your work
- Verification of Enrollment: Proof of current doctoral program enrollment
- List of Publications: Any academic papers or research you have published
How to Apply
- Download Application: Visit the Zonta International website to access the current application form
- Complete All Sections: Fill out the application form in its entirety
- Gather Supporting Documents: Collect all required materials listed above
- Submit Application: Submit your completed application package according to the instructions provided on the website
- Follow Up: Ensure that all recommendation letters are submitted by the deadline
Application Deadline
The application deadline typically falls in mid-November each year for fellowships to be awarded the following year. For the most current cycle, applications must be submitted by November 15.
Selection Process
Applications undergo a rigorous review process:
- Initial screening by Zonta International committee members
- Technical review by experts in aerospace fields
- Final selection based on academic excellence, research potential, and alignment with fellowship goals
- Announcement of recipients in April of the following year
Benefits Beyond Financial Support
While the $10,000 grant is significant, recipients of the Amelia Earhart Fellowship gain much more:
- Prestige: Recognition as part of an elite international network of women aerospace scholars
- Networking: Connection to a global community of women in aerospace
- Career Advancement: Enhanced professional credentials and opportunities
- Mentorship: Access to previous fellows and industry professionals
Success Stories
Over the years, Amelia Earhart Fellows have gone on to achieve remarkable success in academia, industry, and space agencies worldwide. Many fellows have become:
- Leading aerospace researchers at prestigious universities
- Engineers at major aerospace companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Airbus
- Scientists and astronauts at NASA, ESA, and other space agencies
- Pioneers in emerging aerospace technologies
Why Apply?
The Amelia Earhart Fellowship offers unique advantages:
- Support for research in a traditionally male-dominated field
- Recognition from a respected international organization
- Financial assistance to focus on advanced research
- Joining a prestigious network of women leaders in aerospace
- Carrying forward Amelia Earhart’s legacy of breaking barriers
Note: For the most current information, application forms, and submission guidelines, visit the official Zonta International website at:
Website: www.zonta.org/Web/Programs/Education/Amelia_Earhart_Fellowship
Contact Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The Amelia Earhart Fellowship represents a significant opportunity for women pursuing advanced degrees in aerospace fields.
By providing financial support, recognition, and connection to a global network of accomplished women, this fellowship continues Amelia Earhart’s legacy of breaking barriers in aviation and aerospace.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about contributing to the advancement of aerospace sciences, consider applying to join the distinguished ranks of Amelia Earhart Fellows who are shaping the future of flight and space exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I’m in the first year of my Ph.D. program?
You must have completed at least one year of doctoral-level studies by the application deadline.
Are there citizenship restrictions for this fellowship?
No, women of any nationality may apply.
Can I receive the fellowship more than once?
No, previous Amelia Earhart Fellows are not eligible to apply again.
Does my research topic need to be specifically in aerospace engineering?
Your research should relate to aerospace sciences, but can be in related fields such as materials science or electrical engineering with aerospace applications.
How competitive is the selection process?
The fellowship is highly competitive, with approximately 30 recipients selected annually from a large international applicant pool.
When are the results announced?
Recipients are typically notified in April following the November application deadline.