Sixth-Year Funding Opportunities for Graduate Students in the Department of Religion
The Department of Religion is pleased to offer two competitive funding awards for graduate students entering their sixth year.
T. Orman Taylor Sixth-Year Award
- Frequency:
Granted every three years, beginning in Academic Year 2025–2026. - Eligibility:
Open to graduate students specializing in Biblical Studies who are in good standing and will be in their sixth year in AY 2025–2026. - Award Amount:
$15,000
Edward F. Chavanne Sixth-Year Award
- Frequency:
Granted annually, beginning in AY 2025–2026. - Eligibility:
Open to graduate students in any area* who are in good standing and will be in their sixth year in AY 2025–2026.
Note*: Students specializing in Biblical Studies are ineligible in years when the T. Orman Taylor Award is granted. - Award Amount:
- $13,000
Application Details for AY 2025–2026
- Deadline:
March 23, 2025
Note: Late applications will not be considered. - Required Materials:
- Letter of support from your advisor (PDF)
- Selected chapters from your dissertation (PDF)
- One-page rationale explaining why you deserve the award (PDF)
- Timeline for completing your dissertation
- How to Apply:
Complete the application form and upload all the required materials.
Review of Proposals and Decision Process
- Applications will be evaluated by a faculty committee.
- After submission, you will receive a final copy of your application via Adobe Sign as confirmation only that your application was accepted.
- Award decisions will be announced via email by April 30, 2025.
Award Disbursement
- Awards will be issued via direct deposit. Ensure your direct deposit information in Esther and address details in iO are up to date.
Tax Information:
- Awards over $600 are taxable income for U.S. citizens. Note that Rice University does not withhold taxes on these payments for U.S. citizens.
- International Students: Taxes will be withheld from the award payment in compliance with U.S. tax laws.