Fellowship
application checklist.
Track each program from its own deadline. Build in time for the people and documents you rely on, then mark your own tasks as they move from planned to done.
Record the deadline and the portal
Copy the official date, time and time zone from the current program instructions. Some institutions set a campus deadline earlier than the sponsoring program’s deadline. Use the earliest deadline you actually need to meet and keep the submission link with the plan.
A worked backward timeline
Start with the sample for a June 30 deadline. Modify the lead times to match the program and the availability of the people reviewing or supporting your application.
| Task | Days before | Planned date |
|---|---|---|
| Check requirements and request transcripts | 35 | May 26 |
| Ask recommenders and share a brief | 28 | June 2 |
| Draft the personal statement | 18 | June 12 |
| Ask a reader for feedback | 10 | June 20 |
| Confirm uploads and submit | 2 | June 28 |
Track what other people need to send
Ask recommenders early. Share the program, the expected letter format, your draft materials and the official submission instructions. Track whether each letter or transcript has been requested and confirmed separately from the writing you control. If the program uses separate upload links, check the official portal for the status.
Give the final submission its own task
Set aside time to check document formats and file names, review how the application displays in the portal, and save any confirmation after sending. For a real example of program-specific requirements, see the Fulbright U.S. Student Program’s academic application components.