Current Schedule
- Microsoft Research will begin accepting applications on 17 August 2009.
- All applications are due by 31 October 2009.
- Fellowships awarded in February 2010 receive their financial awards beginning in August 2010.
Selection Criteria
Are non-United States citizens permitted to apply?
Yes, if you are a Ph.D. or Master's student at a credentialed university in Latin America, you may apply.
Do I need to be proficient in English?
Nominees are expected to demonstrate proficiency in English. We are unable to offer English as second language training.
Do I have to be nominated by my university or can I apply on my own?
Any Master's or Ph.D. student at an eligible university may apply for the program; however, preference will be given to second-year and third-year students nominated by their departments.
Which university departments are eligible to participate?
Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Electrical Engineering departments at eligible universities may nominate up to three (3) students per eligible department.
What if I am not completing my second or third year?
Completion of your second or third year is a guideline, not a stipulation. Strong candidates will be considered in any portion of their Ph.D. program. However, a thesis proposal must be submitted as part of your fellowship application.
Application Process
How should I submit my thesis proposal? In full or in summary?
Your proposal should be between one and one-half (1½) and five (5) pages. Our preference is to receive the most complete information available within a maximum of five pages. We will accept your thesis proposal in whatever stage you prefer (full or summary).
What is the required format for my application?
You must submit an application by using our online application system. E-mailed applications will not be considered.
What format is acceptable for my CV and these proposals?
Individual documents may be in Microsoft Office Word, PDF, or text-only formats.
How do I submit the letters of reference?
Please have your references send their letters of reference in an e-mail message to latamint@microsoft.com. We will add the letters to your application.
Selection Process
If selected, when will my fellowship begin?
Fellowships awarded in February 2010 receive their financial awards beginning in August 2010. Microsoft sends payment directly to your university, and your university will disperse funds according to their guidelines.
Is there an award ceremony or banquet?
Yes, if selected as a fellow, you will be invited to visit Microsoft Research in Redmond, Washington. Microsoft will cover your travel expenses and assist in obtaining a visa to visit Redmond.
If selected as a fellow, am I required to complete an internship at Microsoft Research?
Internships are encouraged, but not required as part of the award. You may complete a 12-week internship at any time after the fellowship award in November. Microsoft will assist you with travel and visa arrangements.
Are there any tax implications for me if I receive this fellowship?
The tax implications for your stipend, fees, and tuition are based on the policy at your university and the treaty agreement your country has with the United States. For more information, visit the Internal Revenue Service Web site.
Will intellectual property be an issue if I am awarded a fellowship?
The Microsoft Fellowship program doesn’t have any intellectual property restrictions unless the fellowship recipient accepts an associated internship. At that time, you would be required to sign an employee agreement that covers issues related to intellectual property during your internship.
Fellowships and Internships
Contact Us
Please direct any additional questions to the Microsoft Research Latin American Fellowship and Internship Program contact at your school, or contact Microsoft directly at:
Microsoft Research
One Microsoft Way – 99/4118
Redmond, WA 98052
United States
latamint@microsoft.com
