What is the Du Bois Scholars Program?
The Du Bois Scholars Program seeks to honor and uplift academic excellence through research-based collaboration with Harvard and HBCUs. Our goal is to create opportunities for HBCU students to experience a unique and expansive summer research program with Harvard faculty mentors.
How do I apply?
The application cycle for 2025 is now closed.
What is the duration of the program?
The program will launch in early June and end in mid-August. Specific program dates will be released in the Spring.
What are the benefits of participating?
As a Scholar, participants will have the opportunity to establish a foundation for a life-long network of academic colleagues, develop friendships and the professional guidance of a mentor from Harvard’s faculty. Scholars will benefit from these invaluable resources and experience exponential professional growth.
Is there a cost associated with the program?
There is no cost to apply to or attend the Du Bois Scholars Program. All Scholars will receive a competitive stipend for living expenses, and the program will cover room + board, as well as one round-trip ticket to and from Cambridge, MA.
What fields of research are available?
There are a range of research areas in various disciplines offered by the program. You can access a full list of previous projects, faculty mentors, and their disciplines here. A full list of projects and mentors for the Summer of 2025 will be available in the Spring.
How are participants selected?
A committee will review all completed applications submitted by the extended application close date of November 17, 2024, at 11:59 PM (EST). Each component of the application will be evaluated using a rubric and candidates will be invited to an interview with a faculty member.
Finalists will be notified of their acceptance no later than January 26, 2025. All students must accept or decline the invitation to attend by January 31, 2025.
Are there opportunities for networking and mentorship?
Yes, there will be networking events, interactions with Harvard faculty and alumni; and presentations to support the extended study of Du Bois Scholars.
Can international students apply?
If you do not have a U.S. social security number, please send an email to hlos_duboisscholars@harvard.edu. This does not disqualify you from applying.
What resources and facilities will be available to participants?
Scholars will have access to various resources, labs, and facilities during the program.
Will participants receive any certifications or credits?
We cannot offer credit for coursework completed during the summer program.
Can I participate in the program remotely?
All participants must live on campus for the duration of the 9-week residential program.
What support services are available for participants?
In addition to support and training from Harvard faculty and project teams, Du Bois Scholars will receive support and check-ins with the Director of HBCU Initiatives and H&LS staff throughout the 9-week program. Scholars will also have a residential proctor for all housing-related concerns.
Are there opportunities for highlighting research outcomes?
At the conclusion of the 9-week summer program, participants will present their findings to a panel of Harvard faculty, including their mentors, H&LS staff, and special invited guests. As a member of the Du Bois Scholar Program community, participants will have the opportunity to attend and present at conferences at a future date. Scholars can speak to the H&LS team to learn more.
How can alumni stay connected after the program?
Through the Du Bois Scholars Ambassador Program, participants will have the opportunity to share ideas and create the foundation for a network of alumni and future Du Bois Scholars.
What COVID-19 precautions are in place?
All safety measures or contingency plans in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic will be adhered to based on the current university guidelines.
Who can I contact for more information?
Send questions to the Du Bois Scholars Program team at hlos_duboisscholars@harvard.edu.
Can I work part-time or attend other commitments while participating in the program?
Du Bois Scholars are expected to collaborate with their faculty mentor to develop a working schedule for the 9-week program.
Are there opportunities for collaborative research projects among participants?
Depending on the stated outcomes of faculty mentors, Du Bois Scholars may collaborate and publish their research at the end of the program.
How will participants be informed about program updates and announcements?
Keep an eye on the website for program updates and announcements. We will communicate with finalists via email directly.
What is the structure of the daily schedule during the program?
Depending on the faculty mentor’s expectations, an overview of a typical day, including research activities, workshops, and any extracurricular events participants can expect will vary. Scholars should expect to be engaged during the week from approximately 9am-5pm. There will also be activities on select weekends.
