Congressional Fellowship Program in United States (Fully funded)

The Wilson Center’s Congressional Fellowship Program is a six-week seminar designed for mid- to senior-level Congressional staff. Fellows debate key global issues with leading foreign policy thinkers and practitioners, engage in interactive simulations, and network across the aisle.

Upon completion, Fellows join the 1,000-member alumni network with access to exclusive briefings and study trips worldwide. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here

Program Details:

• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Duration: 6 weeks (Fridays, 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
• Format: In-person sessions held at the Wilson Center or on Capitol Hill

Fall 2026 Session Schedule

• Session 1: September 18, 2026
• Session 2: September 25, 2026
• Session 3: October 2, 2026
• Session 4: October 16, 2026
• Session 5: October 23, 2026
• Session 6: October 30, 2026

Application Deadline

August 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility Requirements

• Current Congressional staff only
• Mid- to senior-level position
• Strong understanding of the legislative process
• Interest in shaping foreign policy
• Ability to commit to attending at least 5 out of 6 sessions

Important Attendance Note

• Must be able to commit to attending at least 5 out of 6 sessions
• Sessions are mandatory and held on Fridays from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
• Attendance in-person at Wilson Center or Capitol Hill location
• Applicants should only apply if they can guarantee this commitment

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What This Scholarship Offers:

Professional Development & Knowledge Gains

• Advanced understanding of key geopolitical issues and foreign policy challenges
• Analytical frameworks and methodologies used by leading policy experts
• Fresh perspectives on complex global issues
• Expertise gained from top foreign policy thinkers and practitioners

Networking & Career Advancement

• Direct engagement with leading foreign policy experts, policymakers, and academics
• Meaningful networking with Congressional staff across both political parties
• Access to a 1,000-member alumni network of fellow program graduates
• Professional connections that enhance career trajectory and policy influence

Credentials & Recognition

• Certificate of Completion from the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
• Formal recognition of professional development achievement
• Enhanced credibility and expertise in foreign policy matters

Exclusive Ongoing Opportunities (Upon Completion)

• Invitation to exclusive Wilson Center private briefings
• Access to international study trips organized by the Wilson Center
• Participation in high-level roundtable discussions with policy leaders
• Continued access to Wilson Center experts for consultation and guidance
• Membership in the prestigious Woodrow Wilson Congressional Fellowship Alumni Network

Immediate Benefits

• Strengthened legislative analysis capabilities
• Enhanced ability to inform bipartisan foreign policy decision-making
• Practical tools for evaluating complex geopolitical situations

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How to Apply:

Application Materials Required

• Completed application form
• Current resume
• Letter of Recommendation (recommended, but optional) — from a Member of Congress, supervisor, or colleague

Submission Instructions

Submit all application materials to: [email protected]

Next Steps After Submission

• Selected applicants will be notified of acceptance
• Accepted Fellows must confirm attendance
• Pre-program materials and reading lists will be provided
• Fellows participate in all six sessions (attendance at minimum 5 out of 6 required for certificate)

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