Funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, the Thomas R. Pickering Fellowship Program provides undergraduate and graduate students with financial support, mentoring and professional development to prepare them academically and professionally for a career in the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service. Women, members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the Foreign Service, and students with financial need are encouraged to apply.

Pickering Fellowship Program Overview and Benefits

• Undergraduate candidates: Up to $37,500 annually for tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees and some travel expenses for the senior year of undergraduate studies, and first year of a master’s degree in fields related to the Foreign Service such as business administration, economics, public policy, international affairs, and other relevant fields.
• Graduate candidates: Up to $37,500 annually for tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees and some travel expenses for a two-year master’s degree in fields related to the Foreign Service such as business administration, economics, public policy, international affairs, and other relevant fields.
• Two summer internships, one at a domestic office of the Department of State in Washington, D.C. and one overseas at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The program provides stipends, transportation and housing for these internships.
• Orientation to the Program and the Foreign Service at the Department of State.
• Mentoring from a Foreign Service Officer throughout the duration of the fellowship.
• Employment in the Department of State Foreign Service for those who successfully complete the program and Foreign Service entry requirements.

This program provides academic and professional preparation for outstanding candidates to enter the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service. Pickering Fellows are undergraduate and graduate students in academic programs relevant to international affairs, political and economic analysis, administration, management, and science policy. Women, members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the Foreign Service, and students with financial need are encouraged to apply.

Pickering Fellows receive mentoring, professional development, and financial support as they prepare to enter the Foreign Service. Upon successful completion of the Foreign Service examination, Pickering Fellows make a commitment to a minimum of five years of service in an appointment as Foreign Service Officer.

Visit the Washington Center for eligibility and requirements for both undergraduate and graduate fellowships.