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Harold and Vivian Shapiro/John Malik/Jean Forrest Awards

These awards were established by Harold T. Shapiro, former President of the University of Michigan, and Vivian Shapiro, former faculty member at the University of Michigan, to assist graduate students with interest payments on unsubsidized educational loans. John Malik, a devoted Rackham alumnus in Physics, established an endowment for the same purpose. Jean Forrest earned her master’s degree from Rackham in 1976, and in gratitude for her education, established an endowed fund to support graduate students with financial need. All three awards are made through a single competition.

Eligibility

Full-time students in any Rackham degree program may apply. Students must have completed one full term before the fellowship deadline. The intent of the award is to help students pay interest charges accruing on educational loans while a student is in graduate school. U.S. citizens or permanent residents with $10,000 or more in educational loans (both private and federal) will be given first consideration.

Selection Criteria

Students may apply for more than one award, but preference is given to first-time applicants. Selection will be based on financial need and academic merit.

Deadline

October 17, 2024

Award Description

Awards will be up to $2,000.

Application Process

Students can apply online. A complete application includes a:

  • Personal statement (1,500 words) specifically including the total amount of educational loans owed (both subsidized and unsubsidized) and identifying those on which interest payments cannot be deferred;
  • Copy of recent statements for interest payments and interest accrual on all educational loans (both subsidized and unsubsidized, 1,500 words)
  • Budget statement (1,500 words) regarding your current means of support (including source, amount, and length of support) and income from spouse or partner as well as monthly or annual expenses.
  • Letter of recommendation from the graduate program chair or faculty advisor confirming that the student is in good academic standing and making good progress toward completion of the degree.

Apply for the Harold and Vivian Shapiro/John Malik/Jean Forrest Awards