Apply to the Telluride House

Join a vibrant community of scholars at Cornell dedicated to intellectual inquiry, democratic self-governance, and communal living.

The Telluride House at Cornell University is an educational program of the Telluride Association, providing full room and board scholarships to Cornell University students and faculty members who live and engage with this tightly knit community. For more information about the Telluride Association, please visit their website.

Inquiries

Got questions? Email us at cbta.apply@tellurideassociation.org with the subject line “2026 Preferment.”

For Current Cornell Undergraduates, Graduate Students, and Nunnian Program Alumni

The 2026–2027 application cycle will open soon NOW OPEN. You can view the application HERE.

For Faculty Fellows

The 2026–2027 application cycle will open on March 9, 2026.

This exciting opportunity is available for faculty and postdoctoral researchers from Cornell University and Ithaca College.

We are seeking faculty members who will actively contribute to our vibrant, self-governing community. In a formal capacity, Fellows are expected to organize two events per semester, including at least one talk. More informally, Fellows are encouraged to participate in meals, invite guests, and engage with the diverse community of residents, which includes other Faculty Fellows, undergraduate, and graduate students from various disciplines. Fellows have also found success in hosting formal and informal reading groups within the House.

While we generally favor applicants without dependents, we consider applications from those who intend to live with partners or children on a case-by-case basis.

For the Sidgwick-Miller CEU Scholarship

Information regarding each annual application cycle of the Sidgwick-Miller CEU Scholarship is made available to eligible CEU PhD students directly by the CEU Academic Cooperation and Research Support Office.

For the Atkinson-Tetreault Scholarship

Information regarding each biennial application cycle of the Atkinson-Tetreault Scholarship is made available directly to eligible incoming students of the Cornell Master of Regional Planning course.

For Frances Perkins Scholarship

Application is now open. Please apply using this document: link

ILR School & Cornell Branch of the Telluride Association

The Frances Perkins Scholarship is a joint award offered by the Cornell ILR School and the Cornell Branch of the Telluride Association. This highly selective scholarship supports exceptional admitted MILR students who are committed to advancing the future of work, labor, and public purpose.

The award provides full tuition at the ILR School and room and board at Telluride House for two years, along with access to a distinctive residential experience grounded in democratic self-governance, intellectual inquiry, and community living.

About the Telluride Experience

Telluride House is an intentional residential community where members engage in rigorous intellectual life and practice shared governance. Scholars live and learn together, contributing to a culture of dialogue, accountability, and collective responsibility.

As a Frances Perkins Scholar, you will not only pursue graduate study in labor and employment at ILR, but also participate in a community that challenges you to think critically, lead collaboratively, and contribute meaningfully to a shared intellectual environment.

Who Should Apply

We seek candidates who demonstrate:

Application Timeline

Information Session

Prospective applicants are invited to attend an information webinar on Sunday, March 8 at 10:00 am EST. During this session, you will learn more about the Telluride House experience, the application process, and hear directly from the current Frances Perkins Scholar.

Apply

If you are interested in shaping the future of work, engaging in a values-driven intellectual community, and growing as a leader committed to social impact, we encourage you to apply. link

Top Ten Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Do I need to translate all of my certificates?
    No, there is no need for translation to English. But an explanation of the grading system would be appreciated.
  2. How strongly is GPA considered in the application process?
    There is no GPA requirement for the application. However, once admitted House members must maintain a 3.0 minimum GPA per terms of scholarship.
  3. Can second year undergraduates apply?
    Students who will be 3rd year undergraduates in the upcoming school year are encouraged to apply. We can only accept applications from undergraduates who will be incoming 3rd or 4th year undergraduates.
  4. How long should my essay be? Is it okay if it is a little above/below the limit?
    Each essay should be in conformity with the stated word limit. Nonetheless, if it is slightly above or below the word limit, this is okay. You should conclude your final thoughts.
  5. What is the application acceptance rate/how selective is the application?
    We do not give out this information, as we would rather just encourage all those interested to apply.
  6. Is there a parking lot? Could I park at the House?
    Yes to both questions!
  7. How inclusive is the House?
    Our house is proud of its diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disabilities.
  8. How are dietary restrictions accommodated?
    Our House is very accommodating of allergic needs and dietary restrictions. We can offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
  9. How should I prepare for my interview in case I am selected?
    Your interview will be based on the material you submitted in your application package. In most cases, you will be interviewed by three current House members. Please, review your application and essays carefully. We do not intend interviews to be stressful experiences; rather, we want to get to know you better!