Introduction

The Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program is a prestigious program designed to attract and prepare outstanding young individuals for Foreign Service careers in the U.S. Department of State.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State and collaboratively administered by Howard University and the Bureau of Global Talent Management, the program prioritizes diversity and welcomes applications from members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department, women, and those with financial need. The program aims to foster a diverse and inclusive Foreign Service, reflecting the strength of diversity in diplomatic efforts.

Scope of Work Pickering Graduate Fellowship

The Pickering Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to positive change globally. Upon successful completion of a two-year master's degree program and meeting Foreign Service entry requirements, fellows are eligible to work as Foreign Service Officers in Washington, D.C., and at U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions worldwide. Fellows commit to a minimum five-year service in the Department of State's Foreign Service, beginning upon entry.

Eligibility for Fellowship

To be eligible for the Pickering Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens

• Seek admission to a two-year, full-time master's degree program at a U.S.-based institution

• Have a cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale

• Be able to obtain medical and security clearances

The program particularly encourages applications from:

• Members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department

• Women

• Those with financial need

Budget and Duration

The Pickering Fellowship provides financial support for a two-year master's degree program. Fellows also receive two summer internships: a domestic internship at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., and an overseas internship at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Additional Information about Fellowship

The program offers mentoring from a Foreign Service Officer and professional development activities. Upon successful completion of the program and meeting Foreign Service entry requirements, fellows are guaranteed employment in the Foreign Service.

Key Dates

The application deadline is September 26, 2024. The Pickering selection panel will choose approximately 90 finalists by early November. Program staff will communicate the selection decisions by email to applicants around that timeframe. Finalists will participate in a virtual interview and a written exercise between December 4-5, 2024. The program will complete the selection process and make offers to 45 fellows by early December 2024.

Selection Process

The Pickering selection panel will choose approximately 90 finalists by early November. Program staff will communicate the selection decisions by email to applicants around that timeframe. Finalists will participate in a virtual interview and a written exercise between December 4-5, 2024. The program will complete the selection process and make offers to 45 fellows by early December 2024.

For More funding Opportunities, Visit Global Funding Opportunities.