Many students across Africa and other developing regions dream of studying in the United States, but the cost of tuition and living expenses often closes the door before the dream gets a chance to grow. The University of Mississippi Scholarship for 2026 offers a rare opening. It provides a fully funded graduate assistantship worth $20,000 per year, including tuition remission and health insurance.
For students who want strong academic training, global exposure, and a chance to work on research that matters, this opportunity can completely alter their future path.
This guide explains the scholarship, eligibility conditions, benefits, and the step-by-step application method so you can apply with confidence.
Scholarship Summary
Host Country: United States of America
Study Abroad: Yes
Category: Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
Eligible Countries: All Countries
IELTS Required: No
Reward: Full Scholarship | $20,000 yearly stipend | Tuition | Health Insurance
Deadline: December 1, 2025
Understanding the University of Mississippi Scholarship
The University of Mississippi (also known as Ole Miss) is one of the most recognized public universities in the United States. The scholarship offered for the 2026 academic year is tied to a research project that studies how land use and forestry practices affect the temperature and health of rivers in Mississippi.
This work is important because rivers and water bodies respond quickly to environmental change. The findings of this research can guide better land management and climate adaptation policies.
The selected student will work under two respected academics:
• Dr. Sandra Correa, Associate Professor, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture
• Dr. Padmanava Dash, Professor, Department of Geosciences, Mississippi State University
Their joint supervision gives the student access to two strong departments, advanced laboratories, and high-level research training.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Not every scholarship offers full funding, structured research training, and direct mentorship. Many students from developing countries carry the burden of trying to pay tuition while studying. This assistantship removes that pressure.
The financial support allows students to focus on the work, learn new skills, publish papers, gain experience with advanced tools, and position themselves for successful careers after graduation.
This scholarship is especially valuable for students who want to work in areas like climate studies, environmental analysis, natural resources management, and sustainable land use.
Eligibility Requirements for the University of Mississippi Scholarship 2026
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
-
Hold a bachelor’s degree in any of the following fields:
• Environmental engineering
• Forest engineering
• Agricultural engineering
• Environmental sciences
• Geosciences
• Geography
• Or any related discipline -
Have strong analytical knowledge, especially in:
• Remote sensing
• Satellite imagery
• Environmental data interpretation -
Have technical experience with tools such as:
• ArcGIS Pro
• Python
• Google Earth Engine -
Demonstrate strong communication skills in English, both spoken and written.
-
English test requirements (only for admission, not for the scholarship):
• TOEFL 550 PBT or 79 iBT
• IELTS 6.5 -
GRE scores are optional and not required unless the applicant wishes to submit them.
If you have academic background, some field experience, or a project that relates to environmental monitoring, your application will stand out.
Benefits of the University of Mississippi Scholarship
The scholarship is structured as a fully funded graduate assistantship, meaning you study without the stress of financial obligations.
The benefits include:
• $20,000 yearly stipend to cover living expenses
• Tuition remission worth about $13,000
• Health insurance worth $1,700
• Funding support available for up to 2.5 years
• Possibility of extension if the student continues to a PhD
• Access to advanced research labs and academic mentorship
• A strong university environment with a global reputation
For many students, this scholarship cuts out almost all costs associated with schooling in the United States.
Required Documents for Application
Prepare the following documents before applying:
• Pre-qualification degree
• Academic transcripts (official copies)
• English proficiency certificate (TOEFL or IELTS)
• Personal statement
• Resume or CV
• Copy of passport
• Contact details of three referees
Make sure your transcripts are clear, your writing is honest, and your documents are well arranged.
How to Apply for the University of Mississippi Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step Process)
-
Prepare your documents
Ensure your personal statement, resume, transcripts, and certificates are updated and properly scanned. -
Write a strong cover letter
Your letter should describe:
• Your academic background
• Your interest in environmental research
• Your long-term career goals
• Why this project matters to you -
Send an email with the subject line “river thermal landscapes” to:
• Dr. Sandra Correa: sbc257@msstate.edu
• Dr. Padmanava Dash: pd175@msstate.edu
-
Attach the following:
• Cover letter or statement of purpose
• Resume
• Transcripts
• TOEFL or IELTS (if required)
• GRE score (optional)
• Names and contact details of three referees -
Await feedback
The review begins immediately, and the position remains open until filled. Early applications are strongly advised. -
If selected
You will be asked to submit an official application to the MSU Graduate School. -
Start date
The selected candidate will resume in January 2026.