Office of the Vice President for the Arts
VPA Senior Grant – FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m a co-term student. Am I eligible for this grant?
As long as your undergraduate degree will be conferred in March, June, or September 2023, or December 2022, you are still eligible for the grant.
I will be starting an MFA or PhD program in Fall 2023. Am I eligible to apply?
No. Students pursuing MFA and PhD programs (along with other forms of graduate study beyond Stanford co-term programs) are not eligible for the VPA Senior Grant.
Can the Senior Grant be used to support an unpaid/underpaid internship or apprenticeship?
No. Senior Grants are intended for independent projects that lead to the development/expansion of original creative work. Grant funds cannot be used for internship, apprenticeship, or fellowship experiences.
I’m still not sure about my summer plans. Should I apply?
Yes! We know that Stanford students are often juggling multiple application timelines for post-graduation experiences. By applying for the Senior Grant you’re keeping a door open (you can always withdraw your application after the deadline if your plans change.) The process of applying for the Senior Grant is also a great way to start developing materials that you’ll need as you continue your artistic/arts administration practice (our application is modeled after some real-life opportunities.)
My project will require additional sources of funding. Is this allowed?
Yes—as long as your project does not utilize any other sources of Stanford funding (beyond this grant.) You are welcome (and encouraged) to seek additional funding sources.
What do I put in my application portfolio?
Make sure to review the portfolio guidelines for your discipline carefully:
VPA Senior Grant Work Sample Portfolio
Your portfolio is another vehicle for sharing your story/evolution/trajectory as an artist. Use the feature to supplement/expand upon the information you’ve already provided in your application (e.g. resume/cv, personal statements, transcript). Your portfolio should reflect the work you’ve completed while at Stanford as well as the vision of your proposed project/experience. Only include works that were completed while you were at Stanford. For collaborative pieces please include details regarding your individual contribution.
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