NVIDIA is now accepting applications for its 2027–2028 Graduate Fellowship Program, offering selected PhD researchers grants of up to $60,000 along with opportunities to work directly with NVIDIA researchers and its technology.

The latest application cycle opened September 30, 2026, and interested students have until October 30 to submit their applications, including all required recommendation letters. NVIDIA says international PhD students are eligible to apply.

The fellowship is aimed at doctoral researchers whose work could contribute to advances in accelerated computing. NVIDIA’s research areas include generative AI, language models and speech, neural architectures and algorithms, AI software, autonomous vehicles, computer vision, computer architecture, computer graphics, healthcare, networking, parallel programming, robotics, security and privacy, and quantum computing.

The funding is worth up to $60,000 per award and is administered through the recipient’s university. NVIDIA says the money can support a student’s stipend, tuition and mandatory fees. The fellowship also provides research collaboration opportunities with NVIDIA researchers and access to the company’s technology.

There is one particularly important requirement for applicants: the fellowship comes with a mandatory in-person summer internship at an NVIDIA research office before the fellowship year begins. Candidates applying for the 2027–2028 cycle must therefore be available for an internship in summer 2027.

Applicants must have completed at least their first year of PhD-level studies when they apply. NVIDIA evaluates applications based on the student’s academic and research record, the quality of the proposed research and how closely the work relates to NVIDIA’s research areas and technology.

The application requires a research proposal of up to two pages plus a bibliography, a resume or CV, two to three recommendation letters, and confirmation that the applicant can complete the required internship. At least two recommendation letters are required, including one from a thesis advisor or professor.

NVIDIA advises applicants to start early because recommendation letters must also arrive by the October 30 deadline. Candidates can create an application profile, upload their materials and invite recommenders through the submission portal before submitting the completed application. NVIDIA says winner notifications are scheduled for January 15, 2027.

The program is now in its 26th year. Since its launch in 2002, NVIDIA says it has awarded more than 220 grants worth approximately $8 million. Previous fellowship recipients have worked on areas ranging from robotics and autonomous systems to computer architecture, graphics, AI security and programming systems.

For researchers working at the intersection of AI, GPUs and accelerated computing, the fellowship offers more than financial support. Recipients get an opportunity to collaborate with NVIDIA researchers, work with the company’s technology and present their research to the broader research community at GTC San Jose.

Applications for the 2027–2028 NVIDIA Graduate Fellowship are open now, with the complete application — including recommendation letters — due by October 30, 2026.