Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship
Website: Foreign Affairs Information Technology (IT) Fellowship Program
Description
As one of several high-profile U.S. Department of State diversity recruitment programs, the Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship seeks to attract top technology talent to the Foreign Service that reflects the diversity of the United States. The program is designed for highly talented individuals who want to pursue an IT-related undergraduate or graduate degree and a career in the Foreign Service.
Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the FAIT Fellowship program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, gender, and geographic diversity. Women, members of minority groups underrepresented in the Foreign Service, and those with financial need, are encouraged to apply.
The two-year fellowship program provides:
- Up to $43,500 annually (for two years) in academic funding for tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees and some travel expense (see eligibility requirements).
- Stipends, housing and travel allowances for the two summer internships: A domestic internship in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Department of State and an overseas internship at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Personalized mentoring and professional development opportunities throughout the program.
Upon successful completion of the fellowship program and the State Department’s entry requirements, fellows receive an appointment in the Foreign Service as an Information Management Specialist. Fellows agree to a five-year commitment upon entry into the Foreign Service.
Eligibility
The Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship, designed as a two-year cohort model, offers both undergraduate and graduate fellowships. The application opens in September and close in January. Fellows selected for the cohort will begin their two-year fellowship in fall and complete the fellowship in summer.
To be eligible to apply, you must meet all the criteria below:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be enrolled full-time in an IT-related bachelor’s degree program or seeking admission in an IT-related master’s degree program at a U.S.-based accredited institution
- Be on a timeline to graduate with your bachelor’s or master’s degree in spring while enrolled full-time for spring and fall semesters*
- Hold a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale at the time of the application, and maintain this GPA throughout the program
As a selected fellow, you will need to:
- Obtain and maintain medical and security clearances and suitability requirements
- Agree to a five-year commitment with the Foreign Service upon successful completion of the program and the State Department’s requirements
Women, members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the Foreign Service, and those with financial need, are encouraged to apply.
*To be on the timeline for the undergraduate fellowship, you need to earn your bachelor’s degree (or your combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in an accelerated program) after attending four full-time (spring and fall) semesters beginning fall. To be on the timeline for the graduate fellowship, you would need to enter a full-time master’s degree program in fall and earn your degree after attending four full-time (spring and fall) semesters beginning fall.
- junior
- senior
- graduate
- US Citizen
Procedure
Get details and access the online application at https://www.faitfellowship.org/how-to-apply/.
Online application will include:
- Proof of US citizenship
- Transcript
- Personal Statement
- Resume
- Most recent financial aid award letter
- Statement of financial need
- One letter of recommendation