Although the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship (NSFGRF) might be
one of the most competitive graduate fellowships, it is worth
applying for one during your undergraduate senior year, and (if you weren't
awarded one the first time) during your first year of graduate
studies. Unlike Ivy League institutions with high, unrealistic standards,
the NSF awards NSFGRFs to students demonstrating high potential
for innovative research, and the ability to influence the society beyond
science. This means no perfect GPAs, GREs, or an infinite list
of awards are necessary to win an NSFGRF.
Below, please find some useful pointers that might help you
submit a competitive NSFGRF application. Good luck!