William T. Grant Scholars Program 2026: $425,000 Research Grant for Early-Career Scholars Advancing Youth Outcomes in the U.S. @Career Scholars Advancing Youth Outcomes in the U.S.

The William T. Grant Scholars Program 2026 is now open for applications, offering a prestigious and highly competitive opportunity for early-career researchers to secure $425,000 in funding over five years. This program supports scholars committed to conducting impactful research that improves the lives of young people in the United States.

Designed as a career development award, the program not only funds research but also provides structured mentorship, professional development, and access to a vibrant academic community. It is particularly focused on researchers who are ready to expand their expertise and take bold steps in their academic journey.

About the William T. Grant Scholars Program

The William T. Grant Scholars Program supports early-career researchers pursuing innovative studies that address critical challenges affecting youth aged 5–25 in the United States.

The program emphasizes:

• High-quality, rigorous research
• Interdisciplinary learning and growth
• Long-term career development
• Mentorship and academic collaboration

Each year, only 4 to 6 scholars are selected, making it one of the most competitive and prestigious research grants in the field.

Funding and Benefits

What the Program Offers

Selected scholars receive:

• $425,000 over five years
• Funding to support a comprehensive research and mentoring plan
• Structured mentorship from leading experts
• Access to a supportive academic and professional network
• Participation in annual retreats, workshops, and training sessions

The funding is awarded to the scholar’s institution and is intended to expand—not replace—existing institutional support.

Focus Areas of Research

Applicants must align their research with one of the program’s two core focus areas:

1. Reducing Inequality

Research under this focus area examines:

• Policies, programs, or practices that reduce inequality
• Academic, social, behavioral, or economic outcomes
• Inequality across dimensions such as:
  • Race and ethnicity
  • Socioeconomic status
  • Gender and sexual identity (e.g., LGBTQ+ youth)
  • Immigration and language background

The foundation is particularly interested in research that addresses systemic racism and structural inequality.

2. Improving the Use of Research Evidence

This focus area supports studies that:

• Improve how research is used in decision-making
• Influence policymakers, institutions, and community leaders
• Strengthen systems that serve youth

Key research questions include:

• How can research evidence be better applied in policy and practice?
• What systems and incentives support research use?
• How does research use improve outcomes for young people?

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Organizations

• Tax-exempt organizations only
• Universities, research institutions, and eligible nonprofits

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must:

• Hold a doctoral degree received within the last 7 years
• Be in a career-ladder position (e.g., tenure-track or equivalent)
• Be nominated by their institution
• Demonstrate a strong research track record

Applicants from outside the United States are eligible, but their research must focus on youth outcomes in the U.S.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Research proposal aligned with program focus areas
2. Mentoring plan (including 1–2 mentors)
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
4. Institutional nomination
5. Letters of recommendation

Additional materials include:

• Abstract
• Evidence of prior publications
• Detailed research and analysis plans

Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated based on:

1. Applicant Strength

• Demonstrated potential to become an influential researcher
• Strong record of high-quality publications
• Ability to expand expertise in new areas

2. Research Plan

• Alignment with focus areas
• Rigorous methodology and feasibility
• Relevance to policy and practice
• Clear theoretical and empirical contributions

3. Mentoring Plan

• Strong mentor qualifications
• Clear mentorship goals and structure
• Evidence of meaningful collaboration

4. Institutional Support

• Commitment to providing resources and support
• Alignment with the applicant’s research goals

Application Timeline

• Application Opens: March 27, 2026
• Reference Letters Due: June 10, 2026
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2026 (3:00 PM EST)
• Final Selection: March 2027

Download the complete 2026 Application Guidelines

APPLY HERE

Selection Process

1. Initial screening by Foundation staff
2. Review by the Scholars Selection Committee
3. Shortlisting of finalists (approx. 10 candidates)
4. Interviews in New York City
5. Final selection of 4–6 scholars

Why You Should Apply

This program is ideal for researchers who want to:

• Advance their academic careers
• Conduct impactful, policy-relevant research
• Gain mentorship and professional development
• Contribute to improving youth outcomes in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much funding does the program provide?

Each scholar receives $425,000 over five years.

2. Can international applicants apply?

Yes, but the research must focus on youth in the United States.

3. How many scholars are selected annually?

Approximately 4 to 6 scholars.

4. Do I need institutional support?

Yes, applicants must be nominated by their institution.

5. What is the career stage requirement?

Applicants must be early-career researchers within 7 years of earning their doctorate.

6. Is mentorship included?

Yes, mentorship is a core component of the program.

7. Can the grant be used for postdoctoral positions?

No, it cannot be used as a postdoctoral fellowship.

8. What types of research are encouraged?

Research that reduces inequality or improves the use of evidence in youth-serving systems.

9. What disciplines are eligible?

All disciplines are eligible.

10. How competitive is the program?

Highly competitive, with only a few scholars selected each year.

Learn more about the William T. Grant Scholars Program 2026 HERE.

Discover more global Grant opportunities on OFY HERE and more research opportunities HERE.