Ideal for those looking to deepen their expertise in economic policy, Mercatus Center Fellowships help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to critical discussions on markets, governance, and societal challenges. Whether at the undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral level, participants gain access to advanced research opportunities, mentorship, and a vibrant network of scholars.
| Host Country | USA |
| Host Institute | George Mason University |
| Level | Bachelor, Masters, PhD, Research |
| Eligible Nationality | USA, International |
| Scholarship Value | Up to $200,000 |
| Duration | Depends upon the selected program (Up to 5 years) |
| Closing Date | Various (up to May) |
George Mason University
Located in Virginia’s Fairfax County, George Mason University is a public research institution. Named for George Mason, one of the United States’ founding fathers, the university is situated in Northern Virginia close to Washington, D.C.
Details of the Mercatus Center Fellowships
The Mercatus Center at George Mason University offers a variety of distinguished fellowship programs for students interested in political economy, public policy, and related disciplines. These fellowships are available to both international and domestic students, providing comprehensive academic, financial, and professional support.
Mercatus Center MA Fellowship Program
This two-year, fully funded fellowship supports students pursuing a master’s degree in economics at George Mason University. It is tailored for individuals interested in applied economics and public policy rather than academic careers.
Benefits
The fellowship offers up to $80,000 over two years, covering full tuition, a monthly stipend, and research experience alongside Mercatus scholars. Participants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5 and work at least 20 hours per week with the center.
Eligibility
International students meeting the academic criteria are eligible. The application deadline for the 2024 cohort was February 15, 2024.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
Mercatus Center Undergraduate Scholars Program
This competitive, renewable fellowship is open to undergraduate students from all disciplines enrolled at George Mason University. It encourages engagement with key political economy texts and theories.
Benefits
- Financial Support: Scholars receive up to $1,000 per semester to cover stipends, meals, and reading materials. Additional funding for research and conferences may also be available.
- Academic Engagement: Fellows participate in discussions with faculty and Hayek Program Scholars, focusing on the political economy of social issues.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with monthly evaluations. Late applications may be considered for future semesters.
Deadline
For participation in the fall, the last day to apply is May 30. The last day to apply for Spring participation is January 15th.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
Mercatus Center Graduate Scholars Program
Open to both full-time and part-time graduate students at George Mason University, this program focuses on foundational and modern political economy theories, applied to current public policy challenges.
Benefits
- Financial Support: Scholars receive up to $1,250 per semester to cover meals and reading materials.
- Networking: Fellows join a network of scholars, alumni, and researchers involved in advanced political economy research.
- Academic Development: The program provides guidance on research methods, job opportunities, and advanced studies.
Application Deadline
For the 2025–2026 academic year, applications are due by March 15, 2025, with decisions typically made within twelve weeks.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
Mercatus Center PhD Fellowship Program
This highly competitive fellowship is designed for PhD candidates in economics at George Mason University. It emphasizes market process economics, public choice, and institutional analysis.
Benefits
- Up to $200,000 over five years, including:
- Monthly stipend
- Full tuition for nine credits per semester
- Research assistant roles with Mercatus-affiliated faculty
- Professional Development: Fellows gain research experience and join a scholarly network that enhances academic and professional growth.
Eligibility & Deadline
Applicants must be enrolled in or applying to the economics PhD program. Applications for the 2026-2027 academic year will open in the Fall of 2025. Renewal requires maintaining a 3.5 GPA.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
Join the Facebook group “Scholarships for All” for updated Scholarships
Adam Smith Fellowship
Co-sponsored by the Mercatus Center and Liberty Fund, Inc., this fellowship is open to PhD students across disciplines and universities, including economics, philosophy, political science, and sociology.
Purpose
The fellowship introduces participants to prominent thinkers in political economy from the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools, expanding their academic understanding beyond standard curricula.
Benefits
- A financial award of up to $10,000, including:
- Living stipend
- Travel and lodging for Mercatus-hosted colloquia
- All necessary reading materials
- Networking Opportunities: Fellows join a research-driven community of scholars and alumni.
Structure
Participants attend three-weekend workshops during the academic year and a week-long summer seminar.
Application Deadline
Applications for 2025–2026 are due by March 15, 2025.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
John Stuart Mill Fellowship
Launched in September 2023, this one-year fellowship is designed for entrepreneurs—especially leaders in technology, business, and social sectors—interested in exploring philosophical foundations related to markets, politics, and society.
Participants study works by influential thinkers such as John Stuart Mill, Adam Smith, and F. A. Hayek to apply classical liberal ideas to contemporary challenges.
Structure
- Colloquia: Three in-depth discussion sessions throughout the year
- Networking: Fellows connect with entrepreneurs and leading scholars in political economy
Selection Criteria
Candidates are chosen based on entrepreneurial success, dedication to social change, and philosophical curiosity, with nominations from established leaders in various sectors.
Deadline
In the spring of 2025, the nomination session for the fellowship term 2025–2026 will open.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
Carl Menger Fellowship
Overview
This one-year, competitive online program is designed for doctoral students across universities and disciplines with an interest in political economy.
Benefits
- Up to $2,250, which covers:
- A stipend
- All required reading materials
Application Deadline
Applications for the 2025–2026 academic year are due by March 15, 2025.
For details and to apply, visit the official website.
More Scholarships?
Japanese Government MEXT Scholarships for International Students
Fully Funded Scholarships in Romania without IELTS
UCL Global Undergraduate Scholarship for International Students in England
Georg Forster Research Fellowship in Germany for Students from Developing Countries (Fully Funded)
Funded Scholarships for Foreign Students in Sweden
Join the “USA Scholarship Network” Facebook group
