Frequently Asked Questions

Berg Scholars Program
Frequently Asked Questions

When do I apply?

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with Dr. Utz (Director of the Berg Scholars Program) during Autumn Quarter of their first year of medical school so he can assist with selecting a research mentor and to engage in career development activities. Students can formally apply to become a Berg Scholar at the end of the second year. Deadline dates will be provided to candidates when they meet with Dr. Utz. Please review the How to Apply page for more information.

Is there a deadline for applying?

Can I apply concurrently
for Berg Scholars and MSTP?

Can I transfer from Berg Scholars to MSTP
if I want to earn a PhD instead of an MS?

Do I have to "split" the curriculum
in order to be eligible for the Berg Scholars Program?

Can I apply if I plan to pursue a
different master's degree?

Are international students eligible to apply?

Can I pursue a master's degree or
research at another university and receive Berg Scholars funding?

Can I be a TA if I'm enrolled as a
Berg Scholar? If so, how will funding work?

Yes, provided the following:

Your faculty mentor and Dr. Utz agree in writing
You are making substantial progress in your studies; and
Your total percent effort between class, research, and TA-ships does not exceed 125%. TA-ships that require 50% effort (such as anatomy) will not be approved, even if the total percent effort is 125% or less.

Can I apply to Knight-Hennessy?
If so, when should I apply and how would it affect finances?

Yes, concurrent application is encouraged, and we will assist you with your Knight-Hennessy application. If awarded a Knight-Hennessy fellowship, then funding is not additive. Successful applicants will be enrolled in both programs, funded for 3 years by Knight-Hennessy, and the remaining years funded by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF). Upon leaving Stanford, graduates will be designated as “Berg Scholars” and as “Knight-Hennessy Fellows.”

Do I still need to complete a Scholarly
Concentration if enrolled as a Berg Scholar?

If I am not selected to become a Berg Scholar,
or if I'm pursuing the 5-year split curriculum pathway without an additional research year, can I still participate in physician scientist activities?

Will Berg Scholar Program funding
replace my existing scholarships, fellowships, or grant funding?

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Berg Scholars Program
Frequently Asked Questions

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Berg Scholars ProgramFrequently Asked Questions

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Berg Scholars Program
Frequently Asked Questions