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How to Apply

How to Apply2021-02-05T12:06:48-05:00

The Application Cycle for 2021 is Now Closed

Applications for the 2021 cohort of the FAIT Fellowship program have closed as of February 1, 2021.

The new application cycle for the 2022 cohort will open in the fall of 2021. Please check back for updates.

Eligibility

Here are the current eligibility requirements for the FAIT Fellowship 2021 cohort. You must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen.
  • Be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program relevant to Information Technology at a U.S.-based accredited institution, and entering the junior year in the fall of 2021, OR seeking admission in an IT-related master’s degree program at a U.S.-based accredited institution, beginning in the fall of 2021.
  • Hold a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale at the time of the application, and maintain this GPA through participation in the program.
  • Be able to obtain and maintain medical and security clearances and suitability requirements. (Click here for information on the Department of State clearance processes.)

Minority groups historically underrepresented in the State Department are encouraged to apply: this includes but is not limited to racial, ethnic, geographic, and gender minorities, as well as those with financial need.

FAIT Fellowship Timeline

FAIT Fellowship Timeline

Below is the timeline for the 2021 cohort of the FAIT Fellowship program.

  • September 8, 2020 – February 1, 2021: Applications accepted
  • March 15 – 19, 2021:  Notifications of finalist selections are sent via email
  • March 29 – 31, 2021: Finalists participate in the virtual interview process
  • April 1, 2021: Notifications of final FAIT Fellow selections are sent via email
  • June 2021: Orientation
  • September 2021: Start your junior year of undergrad OR start your first year of graduate school
  • May 2022: Finish your junior year of undergrad OR finish your first year of graduate school
  • June – August 2022: Domestic Internship (10 weeks), Professional Development Series
  • September 2022: Start your senior year of undergrad OR start your second/final year of graduate school
  • May 2023: Graduate with your undergraduate degree or your master’s degree
  • June – August 2023: Overseas internship (10 weeks)
  • September 2023: FAIT Fellows enter Foreign Service as Information Management Specialists
APPLICATION DOCUMENTS

Application Documents

Your application must include:

U.S. passport, birth certificate or naturalization papers

An unofficial copy for all schools attended

Submit your GRE/GMAT scores only if they are required to apply for your intended graduate program(s)

Explain why you want to pursue a career in the Foreign Service (750 words max.):

Maximum two-page resume that highlights your leadership skills (read this article for tips)

If you received financial aid during the most recent academic year, you are required to submit a Financial Aid Letter listing grants or loans.

  • If you received financial aid during the most recent academic year, you are required to submit your SAR form.
  • If you did not receive financial aid during the most recent academic year, you must complete the FAFSA to generate an SAR.

Use this as an opportunity to address any financial hardship or impactful adversity you may have experienced that affects your overall financial standing. You may also include:

  • Assistance you received during your undergraduate studies
  • Your overall education-related debt
  • Your ability/plans to pay for graduate school and/or your junior and senior years of undergraduate (depending on whether you are applying for the Graduate or Undergraduate Fellowship).

Select recommenders who can explain why you are uniquely qualified for the fellowship.

  • If you were enrolled in a degree-granting program within the last two years, the letter must be from a professor or faculty member who knows you.
  • If you have been in an online program, you may select an individual who is familiar with your academics, professional work, or volunteer/community activities.
  • If you are returning to graduate school after a couple of years, choose someone who is familiar with your academics, professional work, or volunteer/community activities.
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