Presidential Fellows
Our Presidential Fellows programs award full-tuition funding and professional development opportunities to select graduate students for the duration of their studies at RISD. In addition, students will connect with thought leaders in art and design through special events and with alumni through dedicated mentors.
These programs further RISD’s commitment to advanced study by supporting outstanding creative thinkers and makers from around the world, enriching a community of graduate students that makes vital contributions to our academic community.
Society of Presidential Fellows
Launched in 2019, the Society of Presidential Fellows (SPF) is the inaugural fellowship of the Presidential Fellows program. Consideration for the SPF will be given to graduate students admitted into any of RISD’s advanced degree programs for academic year 2024–25 (no additional application required). Admitted applicants will be nominated by their academic department or program.
The Building Tall Presidential Fellowship
Announced in 2020, the Building Tall Presidential Fellowship is awarded to select first-generation graduate students who are admitted into RISD’s Master of Industrial Design (MID) and Master of Architecture (MArch) programs. This fellowship is especially suited to students with an interest in environmental and sustainability studies or related issues.
All applicants admitted into an MID or MArch program for the 2022/23 academic year will be considered for the Building Tall Fellowship. Admitted applicants will be nominated by their academic department.