Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program 2025

Applications are open for the Thomas R. Pickering Graduate Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program 2025. The Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship Program attracts and prepares outstanding young people for Foreign Service careers in the U.S. Department of State. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of State and is collaboratively administered by Howard University and the Bureau of Global Talent Management via a cooperative agreement.

It welcomes the application of members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department, women, and those with financial need. Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in their diplomatic efforts, the program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, gender, social, and geographic diversity.

The Pickering Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to promote positive change in the world. Upon successful completion of a two-year master’s degree program and fulfillment of Foreign Service entry requirements, fellows have the opportunity to work as Foreign Service Officers in accordance with applicable law and State Department policy, serving in Washington, DC and at U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic mission around the globe. Fellows also agree to a minimum five-year service commitment in the Department of State’s Foreign Service. The five-year service commitment begins upon entry into the Foreign Service.

Benefits

Successful applicants to the Pickering Fellowship receive:

• Financial support for a two-year master’s degree program
• Two summer internships:
  • A domestic internship at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
  • An overseas internship at a U.S. embassy or consulate
• Mentoring from a Foreign Service Officer
• Professional development activities
• Employment in the Foreign Service upon successful completion of the program and fulfillment of Foreign Service entry requirements

Fellows who complete the program have the opportunity to:

• Work as Foreign Service Officers in Washington, D.C. and at U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions worldwide
• Promote human rights
• Assist American citizens overseas
• Enhance prosperity and development
• Deepen ties between the United States and people around the world
• Support U.S. global values and interests