The MacArthur Fellows Program recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional creativity, a record suggesting important future advances, and the potential for the fellowship to enable further creative work. The $800,000 award supports the individual rather than a specific project and is paid in equal quarterly installments. Fellows must be U.S. residents or citizens and may not hold specified elective or senior government offices. Candidates are identified through confidential nominations and independent review; the Foundation does not accept applications or unsolicited nominations.