[Archaeological Institute of America](https://www.archaeological.org)

March 2026 (application deadline) | May 2026 (acceptance letter deadline)

$2,000 per award; typically supports 15–20 students annually; one-time award

Supports first-time student participants in archaeological fieldwork, fostering hands-on experience and professional growth in archaeology.

--- ## Description The Archaeological Field School Scholarships, administered by the Archaeological Institute of America, provide financial support to students undertaking their first archaeological fieldwork experience. Established in honor of Jane C. Waldbaum, Laura Obolensky, and with support from the American School of Prehistoric Research, these scholarships aim to foster the next generation of archaeologists by enabling students to gain hands-on training and exposure in the field. Recipients must participate in a fieldwork project for a minimum of four weeks and submit a report on their experience, contributing to the advancement of archaeological education and cultural heritage preservation. --- ## Due Dates - March 2026: Full application submission deadline (by 12:00 midnight EST) (anticipated/projected) - May 2026: Deadline for receipt of project director’s acceptance letter required to finalize award (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Each scholarship provides $2,000 to support expenses associated with participation in an archaeological fieldwork project. - Typically, 15–20 scholarships are awarded annually. - Funding is intended as a one-time award for first-time fieldwork participation. --- ## Eligibility - Open to students who: - Have begun their junior year of undergraduate studies (at the time of application) and have not yet completed their first year of graduate school. - Are enrolled at a college or university in the United States or Canada. - Are at least 18 years old. - Have not previously participated in any archaeological fieldwork. - Minority and disadvantaged students are especially encouraged to apply. - Recipients must participate in an archaeological fieldwork project for a minimum of four weeks. - Both academic achievement and financial need are considered. --- ## Application Process - Complete the [online application form](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/applications/waldbaum/) by the anticipated March deadline. - Provide names and emails of two academic references (professors or advisors) willing to submit letters of recommendation online. - Submit official or unofficial transcripts documenting at least two full years of completed college-level work (excluding AP credits). Transfer and graduate students must submit transcripts from previous institutions as needed. - Include a brief essay (≤300 words) describing your interest in the specific field project and how it relates to your academic and career goals. - Outline anticipated expenses and any other financial resources available or applied for. - All application materials, including transcripts and recommendations, must be received by the application deadline. - If selected, provide an official acceptance letter from the field project director by the anticipated May deadline to finalize the award. - Winners must submit a final report within 60 days of fieldwork completion and join the AIA as a student member if not already enrolled. --- ## Additional Information - Allowable expenses include reasonable costs for care of dependent or elderly family members. - Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. - Scholarship winners’ reports may be featured on the AIA’s website or publications. --- ## External Links - [Program Page & Guidelines](https://www.archaeological.org/grant/waldbaum-scholarship/) - [Online Application Form](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/applications/waldbaum/) - [AIA Grants & Awards Overview](https://www.archaeological.org/programs/professionals/grants-awards/) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | Web Contact Form | |------------------------|-----------------------------------------|---------------|-------------------------------------------------------| | Fellowships Coordinator| fellowships@archaeological.org | 857-305-9350 | [Contact AIA](https://www.archaeological.org/contact/)|

Archaeological Field School Scholarships - Archaeological Institute of America

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