Applications to the I-ACED program are competitive and needs-based. A limited number of awards are available for each university. Applicants should read the following information to confirm that they are eligible and then submit a program application.

PROGRAM DEADLINES

  • Rice University: Priority deadline of February 15
  • Jackson State: Priority deadline July 1
  • Texas Southern University: Priority deadline of July 1
  • Prairie View A&M: Priority deadline of August 1

Benefits to I-ACED Scholar Award Recipients

All I-ACED Scholar Awards benefit from attention to the small cohort of scholars supporting them in their career and professional goals. Individual universities may have additional support options available. Each I-ACED scholar at the four institutions receives:

  • Up to $10,000 in tuition scholarship funds
  • Participation in a pre-cohort Development and Engagement Workshop
  • Ongoing scholar engagement activities during the academic year
  • Guided in-person tour of ERDC facilities
  • Coordinated internships or research experiences

At Rice University, two types of I-ACED awards are available, Full, and a Partial award. A limited number of both awards are available. The Full I-ACED Scholar Award comes with full tuition waiver to Rice University. The Partial I-ACED Scholar Award does not include the tuition waiver but does include the up to 10K in scholarship funds, all of the career and cohort support, and the ERDC trip.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an I-ACED Award, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

  • Be a US citizen, permanent resident, US national, or an admitted refugee at the time of the application
  • Have demonstrated academic potential, defined as being accepted for admission to one of the I-ACED master degree programs (you may concurrently apply for I-ACED while also applying for your graduate program)
  • Have demonstrated unmet financial need as defined by the individual university that you are applying for
  • Be enrolled in at least six hours of coursework toward an I-ACED master degree (At Rice, students may not be part-time and must be enrolled in at least nine hours of coursework per fall/spring semester).

Application Process

STEP 1

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal StudentAid (FAFSA®) HERE.
  • Complete the initial application located HERE. You will be asked to fill out information about your current and future schooling plans, answer two essay questions, and upload a current resume and unofficial transcript. Please confirm deadlines with the department you are applying to. Early applications are recommended as this fellowship is competitive and limited in number.
  • View the recorded program webinar here (Please note: a) each university has a limited number of scholar awards available, and b) Rice has both full and partial tuition waiver awards. a) and b) are not explicitly mentioned in the webinar. Please check with your university regarding their specific I-ACED Award).

STEP 2

  • Eligible candidates will receive a follow-up application via email with the application status. All decisions by the I-ACED committee are final.