The PPIA Fellowship Program (Junior Summer Institute) is a fully funded, seven-week summer program designed to prepare undergraduate students for graduate studies and careers in public policy and international affairs. It helps students build the confidence, skills, and network needed to make a real difference in public service.
About the Fellowship
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship aims to develop diverse future leaders in public service. The program is offered through the Junior Summer Institute (JSI) at top universities — Harvard, Princeton, and the University of Michigan. It provides intensive academic training, mentorship, and career guidance to help students succeed in graduate school and beyond.
Host Country
The fellowship takes place in the United States.
Host University
The PPIA Junior Summer Institute is hosted at three leading U.S. universities:
Harvard University
Princeton University
University of Michigan
Fellowship Type
This is a fully funded summer academic and leadership fellowship focused on public policy and international affairs.
Degree
This fellowship is open to undergraduate students who are currently pursuing their first bachelor’s degree.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the PPIA Junior Summer Institute Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
Be current juniors enrolled in a U.S.-based college or university.
Expect to graduate between December 2026 and August 2027.
Be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients (eligible for all JSI sites).
International students may apply only to Princeton and must study at a U.S.-based institution.
Fields of Study
The fellowship focuses on fields related to:
Public Policy
International Affairs
Economics
Political Science
Public Administration
Leadership and Governance
Fellowship Benefits
The PPIA Fellowship offers many benefits, including:
Full funding for the seven-week Junior Summer Institute program.
Free tuition, housing, and meals during the program.
Travel allowance for eligible participants.
Intensive coursework in public policy, economics, and quantitative skills.
Networking with top professors, policymakers, and alumni.
Lifetime membership in the PPIA Alumni Network of over 5,000 professionals.
Opportunities to join the annual Public Service Expo.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit:
Completed online application form.
Resume showing academic and leadership experience.
All college-level transcripts.
Financial information (FAFSA or official aid letter).
One recommendation letter from someone familiar with your academic or leadership potential.
Two essays (500 words each) reflecting your goals and leadership vision.
Review and submit your application before the deadline.
Registration Deadlines
Program Activation Date: September 09, 2025
Application Deadline: November 01, 2025, at 11:59 PM (ET)
Admission Decisions: January 30, 2026
Waitlist Notification: February 13, 2026
Selection Process
Applicants are selected based on:
Academic excellence and leadership potential.
Commitment to public service and diversity.
Quality of essays and recommendations.
Demonstrated financial need and motivation to pursue graduate studies.
Tips to Succeed
Start your application early.
Write clear and honest essays that reflect your values and leadership goals.
Choose a recommender who knows your work and community involvement.
Review your documents before submission.
Explain how this fellowship will help your future in public service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply? Undergraduate juniors studying in U.S. institutions who plan to graduate between December 2026 and August 2027.
Is it fully funded? Yes, the fellowship covers tuition, housing, meals, and travel.
Can international students apply? Yes, but only those studying in the U.S. can apply, and they are eligible only for the Princeton program.
What are the program dates?
Harvard: June 14 – July 31, 2026
Princeton: June 8 – July 24, 2026
Michigan: June 7 – July 25, 2026
Why Choose This Fellowship
This fellowship opens doors to top graduate programs and leadership careers in government, NGOs, and international organizations. It connects you to mentors and professionals dedicated to public service and social change. Joining the PPIA network means lifelong opportunities for growth, collaboration, and impact.
Career and Future Opportunities
After completing the program, fellows often:
Pursue graduate studies at top public policy schools.
Work in government, non-profit, and global organizations.
Become change-makers and policy leaders in their communities.
Join the PPIA Alumni Network for professional development and collaboration.
Student Experiences
Past fellows describe the JSI Fellowship as life-changing. They gain confidence, make lifelong friends, and discover new paths in public leadership. The supportive community and academic experience prepare them for successful careers in public service.
The PPIA Junior Summer Institute Fellowship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for passionate students who want to serve their communities and build strong leadership skills. It offers full financial support, professional training, and a global network that will guide your path toward a successful career in public policy and international affairs. Apply before the deadline and take your first step toward a brighter, purpose-driven future.
