Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship 2026 in USA | Fully Funded Fellowship

The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship 2026 is a special, fully-paid program that is open to newly graduated and postgraduates interested in international peace and security. Fellows, based in Washington, DC, are employed to work with one of the top nonprofit organizations throughout a six to nine-month term working on urgent matters like nuclear nonproliferation, climate security, peacebuilding, emerging technology, and global health security. In addition to competitive monthly salary, this program offers professional development funding, mentorship and access to key policy circles. The Scoville Fellowship with its high orientation on advocacy, research, and policy participation is a strong stepping stone in those intending to make a difference in the field of public policy and international peace.

Key Highlights

Detailed Description

The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship is a very competitive program that assigns fellows to public nonprofit organizations and organizations of interest in Washington, DC. During six-nine months, fellows are involved in research, writing, planning events, advocacy, and policy research which are directly involved in the activities of their host organizations. Congressional hearings, policy briefings and networking opportunities are also available through the program. The senior professionals, alumni, and board members also mentor each fellow and assist them in making career choices as well as getting experience.

Fellowship Benefits

• Monthly Salary: ~US$4,079 a month to sustain full time work.
• Health Insurance Assistance: Reimbursement of healthcare cover.
• Relocation Expenses: Travel costs in Washington, DC at the commencement of the fellowship.
• Professional Development Fund: US 1000 to train, do language classes or a conference.
• Networking Opportunities: Connection to professionals, policy briefings and charity executives.
• Mentorship: Professionals and past fellows will coach new fellows on increasing their careers.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Have a bachelor’s degree or more by the time of fellowship.
• Show great enthusiasm in matters of peace and security, academic, advocacy, activism or internships.
• Possess strong writing, research and communication abilities.
• Be either U.S. citizens or non-U.S citizens who are currently taking residence in the U.S. and have valid work authorization.
• Demonstrate academic achievement and service to the cause of public interest.
• This may favor individuals who had no prior experience of substantial DC-based public-interest or government work.

Required Documents

• Online (through Submittable) application.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) – no more than 2 pages.
• Personal Statement (≤750 words)
• Policy/Opinion Essay (≤750 words)
• Academic records (undergraduate and graduate, as necessary)
• Two recommendation letters
• Name of 5-6 preferred host organizations.

Application Process

1. The applications begin approximately a month before the date.
2. Sign-up with Submittable and fill in the Web-based form.
3. Post necessary documentation, essays and transcripts.
4. Get the recommendation letters submitted directly.
5. Deliver all materials in time.
6. The shortlisted candidates can even be invited to an interview (travel expenses covered).

Deadline

Spring 2026 Fellowship: October 20, 2025
(Start date: January 15 – April 1, 2026)

Fall 2026 Fellowship: January 9, 2026
(Start date: July 15 – October 1, 2026)

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via the official portal:

Apply Now

FAQs

1. Can non-U.S. citizens apply?
Yes, provided that they are already residing in the U.S and that they possess valid work authorization during the fellowship.

2. How long does the fellowship last?
The duration of every fellowship is six to nine months.

3. What issue areas does the fellowship focus on?
Some subjects are nuclear nonproliferation, climate security, emerging technology, conflict management, and global health security.

4. Do I need prior professional experience in Washington, DC?
No. Actually, they are favoring those that have no substantial prior experience of DC.

5. Are relocation costs covered?
Yes. Fellows are also given travel and relocation services to relocate to Washington, DC.

6. How competitive is the fellowship?