Nationally Competitive Awards

Nationally Competitive Awards

Discover Opportunities. Pursue Excellence. Achieve Your Goals.

Overview

Nationally Competitive Awards offer prestigious opportunities that can elevate your academic and career goals to new heights. From funding for study abroad and graduate programs to unique fellowships that build professional experience, these game-changing awards open doors to transformative experiences and future success.

Contact

Martha Lizabeth Phelps, Ph.D.
National Competitive Awards and Fellowship Advisor
Assistant Professor-in-Residence, Political Science
martha.phelps@unlv.edu

What Are Nationally Competitive Awards?

Nationally Competitive Awards are funded by government agencies, private foundations, and institutions across the globe to support students in their studies, research, and career aspirations. These awards are highly selective, rewarding students who show promise in leadership, academic achievement, and community impact.

Why Should I Apply?

By applying for these awards, you’ll gain more than just funding. Here’s why students choose to apply:

Personal Growth: Reflect on your journey, clarify your goals, and develop a sense of purpose through the application process.
Professional Connections: Many awards come with networking opportunities, mentorship, and access to alumni networks.
Prestige: Being a recipient of a prestigious award gives you an unparalleled competitive edge in your field, opening doors to advanced study and career opportunities.
Skills Development: Crafting applications and preparing for interviews will strengthen your communication skills, refine your goals, and prepare you for future success.

How to Get Started

Follow these steps to embark on your journey with Nationally Competitive Awards:

Explore the Awards List: Browse our list of opportunities to find awards that align with your interests and goals. Consider factors like your academic year, field of study, and whether you’d like to study or work abroad.
Meet with Our Awards Advisor: Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Martha Lizabeth Phelps, UNLV's Nationally Competitive Awards and Fellowship Advisor, via the Rebel Success Hub (search “Phelps”). Dr. Phelps will help you identify awards that match your profile and create a strategy to build a competitive application.

List of Award Opportunities

Browse our list of nationally competitive awards that are a good fit for you based on your student status, academic discipline, and type of award. Start your search today!

Explore Award Opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Awards have specific eligibility requirements, such as U.S. citizenship, academic year, GPA, and sometimes even the field of study. Visit our Awards List to see eligibility details for each award.

Why do some awards have a campus deadline?

Some awards require UNLV’s endorsement or nomination. Campus deadlines are set to allow us time to review applications, provide feedback, and submit nominations before the national deadlines. Missing the campus deadline may mean you’re unable to apply.

When should I start?

The earlier, the better! Many awards require significant preparation, so we recommend starting as early as your first year. Dr. Phelps, our National Competitive Awards and Fellowship Advisor, is here to help you every step of the way.