Difference Between Fellowship and Scholarship

Main Difference – Fellowship vs Scholarship

The two terms fellowship and scholarship are often used interchangeably to describe a financial aid given to a student to further his or her education. However, there is a slight difference between fellowship and scholarship. The main difference between fellowship and scholarship is that fellowship is always based on merit whereas scholarship can be based on other factors as well. In this article, we’ll examine the difference between fellowship and scholarship by discussing the meaning, characteristics and features of the two.

This article looks at the,

1. What is a Fellowship? – Meaning, Criteria, Commitment

2. What is a Scholarship? – Meaning, Criteria, Commitment

3. What is the Difference between Fellowship and Scholarship? 

Difference Between Fellowship and Scholarship - Fellowship vs Scholarship Comparison Summary

What is a Fellowship

The term fellowship is often used interchangeably with scholarship. This is because fellowship is a type of scholarship. To be more specific, it is a graduate level, merit-based form of funding which does not need to be repaid. Fellowship grants often include an internship or other service commitment, often for a period of one or more years. It is important to note that most fellowships are based on merit, not on need or any other factor. It is on the basis of their academic or research achievement that a student is granted a fellowship. A student’s skills, GPA, and qualifications to work in a certain field are considered before granting a fellowship. In the United States and Canada, a person who has received a fellowship from a graduate school is called a fellow.

Main Difference - Fellowship vs Scholarship

What is a Scholarship

Scholarship refers to a financial aid granted to a student in order to further their education. It is not expected to be repaid. A scholarship may be based on various factors. Merit and need are two of the commonest of these factors.

Merit-based scholarships are based on a student’s academic, athletic or artistic abilities. These types of scholarships are usually granted by academic institutions. Need-based scholarships are granted to students who are in need of financial aid. Some scholarships are student-specific, i.e., students are chosen according to many student-specific factors such as gender, race, nationality, religion, family and medical history, etc. Minority scholarships are an example of this category.

Difference Between Fellowship and Scholarship

Difference Between Fellowship and Scholarship

Definition

Fellowship is a merit-based scholarship.

Scholarship refers to a financial aid granted to a student in order to further their education.

Criteria

Fellowship is based on merits or talents of the student.

Scholarship may be based on merit, need or other factors.

Level of Education

Fellowships are often granted for graduates.

Scholarships are often granted for the first degree.

Other Commitment

Fellowship may include an internship or other service commitment.

Scholarships do not usually include internships or other service commitments.

Image Courtesy:

“A student on a laptop” by Amanda Mills acquired from Public Health Image Library (Public Domain) via Free Stock Photos Biz

“Ten AutoCon Full Ride Scholarships Available Via TrueCar Sponsorship” DigitalRalph (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr

About the Author: Hasa

Hasanthi is a seasoned content writer and editor with over 8 years of experience. Armed with a BA degree in English and a knack for digital marketing, she explores her passions for literature, history, culture, and food through her engaging and informative writing.