There are three ways to get a neurology fellowship: post-secondary educational institutions, academic journals, and referrals. A neurology fellowship is typically provided by a hospital, research university, or government agency. The fellowship covers living costs and may include equipment, books, and other tools. These types of fellowships are granted based on academic achievement, and are usually targeted at students in graduate-level programs.
The first place to look for information about a neurology fellowship is your university research office. Talk to research services, your faculty liaison officer, or administrative program manager. They can advise you about the different options available, application time lines, and supporting documentation. Keep in mind that all fellowships assume that you are at least a master’s graduate. These funds are not transferable to any other purpose.
In order to get a neurology fellowship, there are specific application criteria that must be met. Candidates must have successfully completed at least a master’s degree in neurology. The grade point average is very important for these types of fellowships. If there was a specific hardship or personal issue that had an impact on your academic performance, be sure to include that in your application. The number of applicants for this type of research funding is quite high, and the process is very competitive.
In order to get a neurology fellowship, candidates must meet the academic and research requirements specific to each fellowship. The best research fellowships are available at a national level, and often require specific research experience. Additional information, such as a personal essay or interview is often required for finalists. Research the granting agency and be prepared to discuss how your primary area of research meets their requirements, or is in keeping with their primary objective.
Occasionally, neurology fellowships are announced in various neurology academic journals. These postings are targeted at researchers who are working off-campus, and may not have received the announcement. These opportunities are usually programs with a very high profile, such as the programs managed by the American Academy of Neurology®. Other programs advertised in this method are sponsored by a specific agency or industry, which are looking to support a very specific area of research.
Graduate program advisers and coordinators may provide information about neurology fellowships to students who they feel would be a strong candidate. These types of scholarship may be focused on a specific area of research, involve travel to other locations, or may require a certain background that the candidate has. Keep in contact with your academic adviser as they have the advantage of a long history in the field, have a larger number of contacts, and background knowledge.