Important note as of March 2024: The Mitchell Scholarship is on indefinite pause due to lack of funding and will not recruit a class of scholars for the 2025-26 academic year. We hope to nominate students for this award in the future, should a source of funding be secured for it.

What is the Mitchell Scholarship?

The Mitchell Scholarship supports one year of graduate study in Ireland or Northern Ireland for a small cohort of US Citizens. Named to honor former US Senator George Mitchell’s pivotal contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process, the Mitchell Scholars Program 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. 

Rising seniors apply through Carleton and must receive endorsement. Alumni applicants are not permitted by the Mitchell Scholarship to submit an endorsement, but may receive support and guidance from Director of Student Fellowships Marynel Ryan Van Zee and should submit a pre-application.

Who can apply?

  • U.S. citizens who will have completed a bachelor’s degree by the time the scholarship begins and will not have reached the age of 30 by the date the application is due.
  • Because a very strong academic record is required for consideration for the Mitchell Scholarship, Carleton is unable to nominate students or recent graduates whose GPA is lower than 3.7.

Why apply for the Mitchell Scholarship?

  • The Mitchell Scholarship supports graduate study in Ireland or Northern Ireland, both home to many well-respected universities.
  • Mitchell Scholars are part of a small cohort that is encouraged to explore Irish life and culture, and receives many opportunities to meet important figures in Irish society and governance.
  • The scholarship includes tuition, accommodations, a living expenses stipend, and an international travel stipend.
  • Mitchell Scholars join a lifelong network of influential people, and can use their education and those connections to support the work that matters to them.

What are the Selection Criteria?

  • scholarship (academic excellence)
  • leadership
  • a sustained commitment to community and public service

Where can I learn more?

Deadlines

The Mitchell Scholarship is on indefinite pause due to lack of funding and will not recruit a class of scholars for the 2025-26 academic year. We hope to nominate students for this award in the future, should a source of funding be secured for it.

Questions?

Contact Marynel Ryan Van Zee, Director of Student Fellowships, x4300/mryanvanzee, Laird 131.

Official Website

Mitchell Scholarship