— A Premier Pathway for Emerging U.S. Foreign Policy Leaders
Are you passionate about U.S. foreign policy, national security, and global affairs? Are you looking for a prestigious opportunity to sharpen your policy writing, strengthen your analytical skills, and stand out in competitive policy careers?
Applications are now open for the Spring 2026 Marcellus Policy Fellowship, an elite training program designed to prepare the next generation of U.S. foreign policy leaders.
About the Marcellus Policy Fellowship
In the tradition of early American statesmen who shaped U.S. foreign policy through rigorous analysis and persuasive writing, the Marcellus Policy Fellowship equips emerging leaders with the intellectual foundation and practical skills needed to influence U.S. national security policy in the 21st century.
Fellows explore complex global challenges, debate competing policy approaches, and develop clear, evidence-based arguments—skills that are essential for careers in government, think tanks, journalism, academia, and public policy.
What the Fellowship Offers
Over several months, selected Fellows participate in an intensive and highly structured policy program that emphasizes real-world skills and professional outputs.
Fellows will:
- Develop a full-length policy paper
- Write a professional policy memorandum
- Publish a polished op-ed
- Receive expert mentorship and individualized feedback
- Engage in rigorous policy discussions with a small, focused cohort
These writing samples often become critical assets for applications to internships, graduate programs, fellowships, and full-time policy roles.
Program Structure & Schedule
- Format: Virtual (via Zoom)
- Meeting Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Time: 7:00 – 8:00 PM Eastern Time
- Cohort Size: 8–12 Fellows
The small cohort model ensures close mentorship, thoughtful discussion, and personalized guidance throughout the program—while the evening schedule makes it accessible for students and working professionals.
Eligibility Criteria
The Spring 2026 cohort is open to applicants who fall into one of the following categories:
- Current undergraduate students
- Current graduate students
- Individuals with 0–2 years of professional experience in foreign policy
Important Eligibility Notes:
- Internships (paid or unpaid) do NOT count toward the two-year experience limit
- Experience in other fields does not count
- For hybrid roles, only the portion directly related to foreign policy is considered
- Military service counts only if duties heavily involved foreign policy expertise
- U.S. citizenship is NOT required
The Fellowship welcomes applicants interested in careers across:
- Government
- Media & journalism
- Academia
- Think tanks
- Public policy & advocacy
- International affairs
Fellowship Stipend 💰
All Fellows who successfully complete the program receive a $750 stipend.
Why the Marcellus Policy Fellowship Matters
In today’s rapidly evolving global environment, the United States faces complex challenges—from shifting great-power competition to emerging technologies and modern security threats.
The Marcellus Policy Fellowship prepares participants to meet these challenges by offering:
- Deep exposure to critical U.S. foreign policy debates
- Hands-on experience producing professional policy documents
- Mentorship from seasoned foreign policy experts
- Stronger credentials for competitive policy careers
- A lasting network of peers committed to informed, principled policy thinking
Graduates consistently report increased competitiveness for:
- Policy internships
- Full-time roles in foreign policy and national security
- Top graduate and professional programs
Explore Past Fellows’ Work
Applicants can review policy publications from previous cohorts, including:
- Fall 2025
- Spring 2025
- Fall 2024
- Spring 2024
- And cohorts dating back to 2020
These publications demonstrate the Fellowship’s high standards and the breadth of policy issues Fellows tackle.
Apply Now: Spring 2026 Cohort
🗓 Application Deadline:
January 16 at 5:00 PM EST
If you are serious about developing advanced policy writing skills, building strategic insight, and contributing meaningfully to U.S. foreign policy discussions, this Fellowship is an opportunity you should not miss.
👉 APPLY HERE
Final Thoughts
The Spring 2026 Marcellus Policy Fellowship is a rare and prestigious opportunity for aspiring policy professionals to gain the skills, mentorship, and credibility needed to succeed in U.S. foreign policy and national security careers.
If you are committed to shaping America’s role in the world, this Fellowship provides the ideal foundation to begin—or accelerate—that journey.
📌 Share this opportunity with students, graduates, and early-career professionals who are passionate about global affairs and U.S. policy.