Extended Deadline for Journalism and Telecommunications: February 13, 2026
The American Political Science Association (APSA) invites applications for the 2026–2027 APSA Congressional Fellowship Program from political scientists, journalists and telecommunication scholars, one of the nation’s most respected and longstanding fellowship opportunities on Capitol Hill. Apply Now!
- Political Science Fellow Application – Deadline: January 16, 2026
- Journalism Fellow Application – February 13, 2026
- Telecommunications Fellow Application – February 13, 2026
For more than 70 years, the APSA Congressional Fellowship Program has provided political scientists, journalists, and communications professionals with a rare opportunity to gain first-hand experience in the legislative process. Fellows serve in congressional offices—working alongside Members of Congress and their staff to draft legislation, organize hearings, conduct policy research, and engage directly with the day-to-day operations of Congress.
Experience Congress from the Inside
The ten-month program begins each November with an intensive one-month introduction to Congress taught by leading experts in the field. After orientation, fellows work in placements of their choosing and also participate in ongoing seminars and enrichment programs. Through this unique opportunity, the American Political Science Association enhances public understanding of policymaking and improves the quality of scholarship, teaching and reporting on American national politics.
Fellows begin the year with a comprehensive orientation led by congressional scholars, policy experts, and practitioners. This one-month seminar introduces the structure, operations, and politics of Congress, preparing fellows for their full-time placements. Over the course of the year, participants gain invaluable insights into policymaking and democratic governance while expanding their professional networks and contributing to public service.
“This fellowship has changed my life and my career trajectory. I am more confident and able to inform politicians and stakeholders about health and aging policy. I understand even more clearly my responsibilities as an American citizen, and the opportunities afforded to me to participate in my government.”Many alumni have gone on to distinguished careers in academia, government, and the media—developing new courses on legislative politics, writing cornerstone research on policymaking, and serving as leaders in public affairs.
Benefits of Participation
- Understand Congress from the inside. Gain direct experience through hands-on participation in the legislative process.
- Advance your research and teaching. Use your fellowship experience to inform scholarship, classroom instruction, and engagement with policymakers.
- Expand your professional network. Build lifelong connections with Members of Congress, peers, and the broader APSA Congressional Fellowship alumni community.
- Engage in public service. Apply your expertise to strengthen ties between academia and government.
Who Should Apply
Qualifications and application procedures, including deadlines, vary by fellowship category. For more information on how to apply and the fellowship year, visit the CFP resource page. Check out the Fellowship FAQs for additional questions or read about the experiences of fellowship alumni.
Applications are open to:
- Political Scientists who are within 15 years of receiving their doctorate with an interest in Congress or policymaking.
- Journalists, including freelancers, with 2–10 years of professional experience who report on Congress.
- Telecommunications scholars who are early to mid-career professionals interested in policymaking and government affairs.
More information about the fellowship year is available here.
Applicants should demonstrate how the fellowship aligns with their professional goals and their commitment to understanding or advancing the policymaking process. Deadline for Political Science: January 16, 2026 | Extended Deadline for Journalism and Telecommunications: February 13, 2026. Learn more and apply here: www.apsanet.org/cfp