Application Process

All Brown students who meet the criteria are eligible to apply. Students who are African-Americans, LatinX, Native Americans, as well as those from marginalized backgrounds (first generation college student, low-income, etc.) are particularly encouraged to apply.

• Sophomores

• Equivalent minimum of 3.0 GPA & good academic standing

• Demonstrated commitment to MMUF goals of reducing racial inequities in education

• Commitment to research careers in Mellon-eligible fields, including pursuit of PhD

• Status as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, DACA-mented and undocumented students are eligible to apply.

Completed applications must be submitted via UFUNDS, by February 7th at 11:59 pm ET. No late applications will be accepted.

The MMUF Application comprises:

• two essays

• resumé

• internal academic record and, if a transfer student, transcripts from any other college or university attended

• recommendation letters from 2 professors (not graduate students)

Finalists will be invited for an interview with the Brown MMUF Selection Committee.

Prospective Mellon Mays applicants have the optional opportunity to meet individually (via phone or zoom) with Dr. Asabe Poloma, MMUF Director, and a current Mellon Mays graduate student at Brown for feedback on a draft of their Mellon application essays. Before signing up for application advising support, please be sure to watch the informative "Going from a Good Idea to a Great Proposal" on the Getting Started page.

• To sign up with an advising meting with Dr. Asabe Poloma, click here for her calendar.