About this opportunity
Life Economics Lab (LEL) offers a scholarship pathway for qualified professionals to pursue advanced studies through the Special Program for Urban and Regional Studies (SPURS) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Through this initiative, LEL identifies, prepares, and supports high-potential leaders from its academic and leadership programs to apply to SPURS, while also providing financial support for selected candidates.
Important Clarification
Life Economics Lab (LEL) is an independent, private organization and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
MIT and the SPURS Program operate independently and retain full authority over admissions decisions, academic content, and program administration.
The Special Program for Urban and Regional Studies (SPURS) is a ten-month (September to June) non-degree-granting academic program created in 1967 by the MIT Department of Urban Studies and Planning (DUSP), designed for outstanding mid-career professionals from newly industrialized countries. It achieves three main objectives for participants: professional development, academic reorientation, and a deeper understanding of U.S. institutions.
While anyone can apply to SPURS, participants of the Life Economics Lab leadership circle and members of organizations that are part of TEC-T who are admitted to the program have the opportunity to obtain a scholarship to cover costs of participating in the program. At MIT DUSP, admitted individuals can work on a project within one of its research centers and audit graduate-level courses for two semesters.
Role of Life Economics Lab (LEL)
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Identifying and pre-selectuing high potential candidates
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Conducting an internal review and nomination process
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Providing scholarship funding for selected candidates
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Supporting candidates with: application preparation, Visa coordination, Travel and logistics, and Pre-program advisory.
LEL's role is limited to scholarship and candidate nomination
Role of MIT and the SPURS program
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Independently review all applications
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Applies its standard admissions criteria and procedures
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Makes final and sole decisions regarding admission
Nomination by LEL does not guarantee admission to MIT
All admitted candidates must meet MIT's academic and professional standards.
How the Process Works
LEL Pre- Selection
Candidates apply through LEL's leadership and academic programs
Nomination
LEL conducts an internal evaluation and nominates selected candidates
MIT Application
Nominated candidates must submit formal applications to SPURS at MIT
Final Decision
MIT independently evaluates applicants and makes final admission decisions
KEY DATES for LEL Scholarship
LEL Scholarship Application deadline: January 9, 2027
LEL Scholarship Shortlist announcement: January 31, 2027
LEL Scholarship Selected fellow announcement: March 31, 2027
Program start and end dates at MIT: From September 2027 to June 2028
Learn more about the SPURS program
Legal and Trademark Notice
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MIT and SPURS are trademarks of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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Their use on this website is for descriptive and informational purposes only.
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No use of MIT trademarks, logos, or branding implies any endorsement or affiliation
No Guarantee of Admission
Participation in LEL's selection or nomination process:
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Does not guarantee admission to MIT
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Does not provide preferential treatment beyond formal nomination
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Is subject entirely to MIT's independent admissions process