How to Secure the 2026 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship for New Americans: A Full Guide Using a Public Health Master’s Applicant as Example

If you’re an immigrant or child of immigrants in the United States aiming to pursue a graduate degree in 2026, The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is one of the most prestigious and high-value scholarships you should have on your radar. Awarding up to $90,000 per fellow, this merit-based scholarship supports New Americans in pursuing full-time graduate education in any professional or graduate program at any U.S. university.

In this guide, we’ll use a Master of Public Health (MPH) applicant as an example to break down exactly how to secure the scholarship, from gaining admission to a top public health school, to completing a winning application for the fellowship.

🌟 What Is the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship?

Overview:

• Value: Up to $90,000 (includes $25,000/year stipend + 50% tuition support up to $20,000/year for 2 years)
• Number of awards: 30 per year
• Eligibility: Immigrants and children of immigrants under age 31 as of application deadline
• Deadline: Typically in October each year (2026 deadline TBA)
• Covers: Any U.S.-based graduate program (MA, MS, MPH, MBA, JD, PhD, MD, etc.)

🎯 Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must be:

• A U.S. citizen, permanent resident (green card holder), DACA recipient, or a naturalized citizen.
• Born abroad or be the child of two immigrants.
• Not older than 31 by the application deadline.
• Planning to enroll full-time in a U.S.-based graduate program in the 2026-2027 academic year.

📘 Step-by-Step Guide to Securing the Fellowship

🔹 Step 1: Secure Admission to a Top MPH Program

Let’s assume you’re applying for an MPH (Master of Public Health) at Johns Hopkins University — ranked #1 for public health.

What You Need:

1. Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, nursing, health science).
2. GPA above 3.3 is ideal.
3. GRE scores (optional for most MPH programs now, but strong scores can help).
4. Strong resume with public health work, internships, or volunteer experience.
5. Letters of recommendation from academic and professional supervisors.
6. Statement of Purpose that shows your dedication to solving public health issues (especially in immigrant communities).

Pro tip: Demonstrate your personal connection to a public health issue related to your community or country of origin.

🔹 Step 2: Prepare for the Soros Fellowship Application (Start Early!)

Start preparing at least 6 months before the October deadline.

What You’ll Need to Submit:

• ✅ Online application form
• ✅ Two personal essays:
  • Essay 1: Personal and Family Background
  • Essay 2: Your Graduate Program Goals & Career Plans
• ✅ Resume/CV
• ✅ Three letters of recommendation
• ✅ College and graduate transcripts
• ✅ Standardized test scores (if required by the graduate program)
• ✅ (Optional but encouraged) Documentation of immigration status

Essays Tips:

• Show how being a New American has shaped your goals.
• Share challenges you’ve overcome.
• Highlight how your graduate education aligns with your long-term impact on U.S. society or your field.

🔹 Step 3: Choose Strong Recommenders

Select professors, mentors, or supervisors who:

• Understand your leadership qualities.
• Can speak to your commitment to public service or innovation.
• Have known you for a reasonable length of time.

💡 If possible, include at least one recommender who has a connection to your graduate program or your future field (e.g., public health).

🔹 Step 4: Submit a Polished Application

• Submit all materials before the October 2026 deadline (dates will be updated on their official website).
• Double check transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
• Use a professional editor or writing mentor to review your essays.

🔹 Step 5: Prepare for the Interview

If selected as a finalist, you’ll be invited for an interview (usually in January or February).

What to Expect:

• Questions on your personal story, academic journey, and future vision.
• Questions about your leadership and your “New American” identity.
• Situational and thought-provoking questions around your field (public health).

🗣️ Practice your answers out loud and get feedback.

🎓 Example Timeline (for MPH Applicant)

🧠 Pro Tips for Success

1. Make your story matter – Your personal narrative should be compelling and deeply tied to your identity as a New American.
2. Align your goals – Clearly show how your graduate degree will lead to societal impact.
3. Don’t recycle SOPs – Your Soros essays must go beyond what you submitted for admission.
4. Leverage your community work – Soros values public impact and service.
5. Show future leadership potential – Not just what you’ve done, but how you plan to lead.

📌 Key Links

• Official website: https://www.pdsoros.org
• FAQ: https://www.pdsoros.org/apply/faq
• Soros Fellow profiles: Read past winners’ bios to get inspiration!

💰 Why This Scholarship Is Worth It

Not only does the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship provide significant financial relief, it also offers:

• Access to a lifelong network of changemakers and leaders
• Prestige and visibility in your professional field
• A competitive edge for other fellowships, grants, and leadership roles

Final Thoughts

If you’re a New American passionate about public health or any other graduate field, start preparing early. From gaining admission to a top MPH program like Johns Hopkins to crafting a compelling personal story, every step counts.

With dedication and planning, the 2026 Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowship could be your launchpad into leadership and lasting societal impact.