Mitchell Scholarship

PROGRAM ON HOLD FOR 2024-25, NOT ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
Award information 

The George J. Mitchell Scholarship Program, named to honor former US Senator George Mitchell’s pivotal contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process, is designed to introduce and connect generations of future American leaders to the island of Ireland, while recognizing and fostering intellectual achievement, leadership, and a commitment to community and public service.

Up to twelve Mitchell Scholars between the ages of 18 and 30 are chosen annually for one academic year of postgraduate study in any discipline offered by institutions of higher learning in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The Scholarship Program provides tuition, accommodation, a stipend for living expenses and travel.

Study in Ireland

Applicants will be required to list at least three institutions and can list up to five. Institutional balance is a factor in the placement of Scholars at universities in Ireland so an applicant’s prospects are enhanced by indicating multiple university preferences. An applicant who lists just one or two institutional preferences weakens chances of selection as a Mitchell Scholar.

Selection criteria

  • scholarship
  • leadership
  • a sustained commitment to community and public service.

Mitchell looks for “…persuasive, documented evidence of significant achievement in three areas: scholarship, leadership, and commitment to community and public service. All three areas are important. Some applicants have impressive academic credentials but lack a credible record of accomplishment in leadership and service. Membership or participation in a long resume of extracurricular activities is less convincing than demonstrating a significant, tangible impact on a candidate’s community or school. Academic excellence, leadership, and service are equally important criteria.”

Eligibility

  • U.S. citizen
  • 18 years of age or older, but not yet 30, on September 29 of the year of application (those who turn 30 on September 30th are not eligible).
  • Bachelor’s degree before beginning study as a Mitchell Scholar.

Endorsement application process

Mitchell does not accept direct applications; students must be endorsed by Boston University’s Provost Office. To apply for institutional endorsement:

  1. Complete the brief Intent to Apply questionnaire by July 1, 2024, 12 noon EST.  This signals your serious interest in the opportunity and opens up our channels of communication and support.
  2. Submit your full Application for Institutional Endorsement  by August 10, 2024, 12 noon EST.

Direct questions to bufellow@bu.edu or to Jeff Berg, Director of National & International Scholarships at  berg@bu.edu.