About

Foreign Affairs Information Technology Fellowship

Fellowship2024-05-17T08:12:51-04:00

Attracting Technology Talent that Reflects the Diversity of the United States

As one of several high-profile U.S. Department of State diversity recruitment programs, the Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship seeks to attract top technology talent to the Foreign Service that reflects the diversity of the United States. Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the FAIT Fellowship program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, gender, and geographic diversity.  Women, members of minority groups underrepresented in the Foreign Service, and those with financial need, are encouraged to apply.

The program is designed for highly talented individuals who want to pursue an IT-related undergraduate or graduate degree (such as computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, computer engineering, IT services administration, and computer systems networking and more), and a career in the Foreign Service.

The two-year fellowship program provides:

  • Up to $43,500 annually (for two years) in academic funding for tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees and some travel expense (see eligibility requirements).
  • Stipends, housing and travel allowances for the two summer internships: A domestic internship in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Department of State and an overseas internship at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • Personalized mentoring and professional development opportunities throughout the program.

Upon successful completion of the fellowship program and the State Department’s entry requirements, fellows receive an appointment in the Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Technology Officer.  Fellows agree to a five-year commitment upon entry into the Foreign Service.

The U.S. Department of State is the lead institution for the conduct of American diplomacy and the Secretary of State is the President’s principal foreign policy advisor. The primary responsibility of the U.S. Department of State and its employees is to fight terrorism, protect U.S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives while building a freer, prosperous and secure world. Learn more at https://careers.state.gov/.

The Foreign Affairs IT (FAIT) Fellowship is dedicated to empowering the next generation of technology leaders in the U.S. Foreign Service who reflect the face of America and providing a source of trained individuals who are dedicated to pursuing careers as Diplomatic Technology Officers.

We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce opens doors to innovation, creativity, new ideas and solutions, and a better understanding of the world.  A more diverse generation of Foreign Service staff is culturally aware, adaptable, well-rounded and agile – and able to represent the best of the United States to nations around the world.

The FAIT Fellowship program is administered by The Washington Center (TWC), where the level of support and mentorship provided to students is unparalleled. While we challenge students to grow and develop as leaders, The Washington Center provides personalized guidance and support to all participants to ensure they are set up for success. Learn more about TWC here: https://twc.edu/.

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