Program guide
How to apply to Microsoft Research Asia StarTrack Scholars Program
Invites outstanding young faculty from around the world for a three-month on-site research visit at Microsoft Research Asia, collaborating with its researchers and projects.
Step by step
- Check that you are eligibleThe published rules: Open to researchers; University or institute faculty with a PhD earned within the past 7 years whose research fits MSRA's listed fields; requires a full-time three-month on-site visit.
- Gather the materialsYou will need: Application form answers, Recommendation letters (drafts for your referees).
- Write the answersBuild the statement around one plan for the fellowship period and the evidence that you will carry it out.
- Submit on the official pageApply through the official page, and keep the confirmation.
- Follow upNote when results are due. If the organiser invites questions, ask once, briefly, after the date has passed.
Timeline
- 42 days before the deadlineAsk referees and order documentsAsk your referees, and order transcripts or score reports; these depend on other people's timelines.
- 28 days before the deadlineDraft the statementDraft the statement around one clear plan, with evidence from your record.
- 10 days before the deadlineReview and remindReview against the selection criteria; gently remind referees of the date.
- 2 days before the deadlineSubmit and keep the confirmationSubmit early and check that every reference shows as received.
Questions you will meet, answered honestly
What will you do during the fellowship?
A specific plan with milestones, tied to what the fellowship provides.
What is your long-term goal?
Honest and specific. It's fine if it is still forming, as long as the next step is clear.
What reviewers of fellowships look for
- Build the statement around one plan for the fellowship period and the evidence that you will carry it out.
- Ask referees early and send them your statement and the selection criteria, so their letters address the same points.
- Check the eligibility window (years since degree, nationality, field) before investing time.
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