William T. Grant Scholars Program 2026: $425K Grant
The William T. Grant Scholars Program 2026 offers early-career researchers a chance to win $425,000 over five years. This grant supports studies that help young people aged 5 to 25 in the United States. If you are a promising scholar ready to tackle big issues like inequality or better use of research, this program could boost your career.
About the William T. Grant Scholars Program
This program picks 4 to 6 scholars each year. It funds high-quality research on youth challenges. Scholars also get mentorship, training, and connections to other experts. The goal is to help researchers grow and make real changes in young lives. It acts as a career development award, not just money for projects.
Funding and Benefits
Scholars receive $425,000 spread over five years. The money goes to their institution to support research and mentoring plans. It adds to what the school already provides, rather than replacing it. Other perks include annual retreats, workshops, and a network of leaders in the field. These elements help build skills for long-term success.
Focus Areas of Research
All proposals must fit one of two main areas.
Reducing Inequality
This area looks at policies, programs, or practices that cut down gaps in youth outcomes. It covers academic, social, behavioral, or economic results. Key topics include race, ethnicity, income levels, gender, sexual identity, immigration, and language. The program seeks work on systemic racism and deep-rooted unfair systems.
Improving the Use of Research Evidence
Here, studies explore how to get research into decisions by leaders. It targets policymakers, schools, and community groups that serve youth. Questions focus on better systems for using evidence, incentives for it, and links to improved youth results.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Organizations
Only tax-exempt groups like universities, research centers, or nonprofits can apply.
Eligible Applicants
You need a doctoral degree from the past seven years. Hold a tenure-track or similar career position. Your institution must nominate you. Show a solid record of research. People from outside the U.S. can apply if their work targets U.S. youth.
Application Requirements
Submit a research proposal that matches the focus areas. Include a mentoring plan with one or two mentors. Provide your CV, institutional nomination, and recommendation letters. Add an abstract, past publications, and detailed plans for research and analysis.
Selection Criteria
Reviewers check several parts of each application.
Applicant Strength
They look for your potential as a top researcher. Past high-quality publications matter. Ability to learn new skills counts too.
Research Plan
It must match focus areas, use strong methods, and be doable. Show clear links to policy or practice and fresh ideas.
Mentoring Plan
Mentors should be experts with a clear plan for guidance and teamwork.
Institutional Support
Your school must commit resources that fit your goals.
Application Timeline
Applications opened on March 27, 2026. Reference letters are due June 10, 2026. Full applications close June 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST. Final picks happen in March 2027.
Selection Process
Staff screen entries first. A committee reviews them. About 10 finalists get shortlisted. Those go to interviews in New York City. Then, 4 to 6 scholars are chosen.
Why You Should Apply
This fits researchers aiming to grow their careers. It funds work that shapes policy and helps youth. You gain top mentors and training. Join a group dedicated to better outcomes for young Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the program provide?
Each scholar gets $425,000 over five years.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes, as long as the research focuses on U.S. youth.
How many scholars are selected annually?
About 4 to 6.
Do I need institutional support?
Yes, your institution must nominate you.
What is the career stage requirement?
Early-career, within seven years of your doctorate.
Is mentorship included?
Yes, it is a key part.
Can the grant be used for postdoctoral positions?
No, it supports career-ladder roles only.
What types of research are encouraged?
Studies on reducing inequality or better research use in youth systems.
What disciplines are eligible?
All fields qualify.
How competitive is the program?
Very, with few spots each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the William T. Grant Scholars Program provide?
Each scholar receives $425,000 over five years to support research and career growth.
What are the main research focus areas?
Proposals must address reducing inequality in youth outcomes or improving the use of research evidence in decisions.
Who is eligible to apply?
Early-career researchers with a doctorate within seven years, in a tenure-track role, and nominated by their institution.
When is the application deadline for 2026?
Full applications are due June 30, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST.