Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship

Name: Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program

Award Amount:

• Up to $42,000 annually for a two-year period, covering tuition, room, board, books, and mandatory fees for a two-year master’s degree program.

Overview:
The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program is a U.S. Department of State initiative aimed at attracting diverse talent to the Foreign Service. The fellowship supports individuals interested in pursuing a rewarding career in international service, representing the United States globally by promoting human rights, assisting American citizens overseas, enhancing prosperity and development, and supporting U.S. values and interests. The program encourages applications from members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the Foreign Service, women, and those with financial need.

Eligibility Criteria:

• U.S. citizenship.
• Intention to seek admission to a two-year, full-time, on-campus master’s degree program at a U.S.-based institution in an academic field relevant to the Foreign Service, beginning in the fall of the application year.
• Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale at the time of application.

Application Requirements:

• Complete the online application through the Pickering Fellowship portal.
• Submit a personal statement detailing:
  • Your motivation for pursuing a career in the Foreign Service.
  • Relevant experiences that have prepared you for this path.
  • Your commitment to public service and international affairs.
• Provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
• Two letters of recommendation:
  • One from a faculty member familiar with your academic performance.
  • One from an individual who can attest to your leadership, service, or other relevant qualities.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (e.g., birth certificate, passport).
• Financial need documentation, if applicable.
• Résumé highlighting education, work experience, honors, and extracurricular activities.

Application Timeline:

• Application Opens: July 16
• Application Deadline: September 26
• Finalists Notified: November 8
• Finalist Selection Process: December 4-5

Program Components:

• A weeklong orientation to the Fellowship and the Foreign Service.
• Two summer internships:
  • One at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
  • One overseas at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Mentoring from Foreign Service Officers throughout the fellowship.
• Upon successful completion of the program and meeting Foreign Service entry requirements, employment in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service with a minimum five-year service commitment.

Additional Information:

• Fellows must be able to obtain medical, security, and suitability clearances to remain in the program.
• The fellowship aims to develop a source of trained individuals dedicated to representing America’s interests abroad.
• For detailed information and application guidelines, visit the official Pickering Fellowship website below.

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