Applications Open for the IAPS AI Policy Fellowship 2026 ($15,000 Stipend)

Application Deadline: February 2, 2026

Applications are now open for the Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS) AI Policy Fellowship 2026 — a prestigious, fully funded three-month program designed for professionals eager to advance their expertise in artificial intelligence (AI) policy and strategy.

The fellowship offers participants a unique opportunity to strengthen their policy skills and contribute to shaping a positive and secure future in the era of powerful AI technologies. Fellows will receive a $15,000 stipend (or $22,000 for senior fellows) to support their participation throughout the program.

Program Overview

The IAPS AI Policy Fellowship runs from June 1 to August 21, 2026, and can be completed in-person in Washington, D.C. or remotely. However, all selected fellows will participate in a mandatory two-week in-person residency in D.C. from June 1–12, 2026.

During this residency, fellows will explore the evolving landscape of AI policy, engage with leading experts, and participate in workshops and strategy sessions with policymakers and researchers.

Who Can Apply

The fellowship welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds — including policy, technology, research, and governance. Participants may range from advanced undergraduate students to experienced professionals in industry, think tanks, or government roles.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong grasp of AI-related issues and policy priorities, as well as a commitment to advancing responsible AI governance and innovation.

Program Structure and Activities

Following the two-week residency, fellows will spend the remaining 10 weeks collaborating with AI policy experts on high-impact projects. These projects address key policy areas such as:

• National security implications of AI
• Government acquisition and procurement of AI technologies
• Export controls and AI hardware mechanisms
• Evaluation and governance frameworks
• Geopolitical implications of AI
• Regional AI policy (U.S., U.K., and E.U.)

Each fellow will be paired with a mentor who will guide them through practical policy projects tailored to their expertise.

Examples of past fellowship outputs include:

• Authoring policy briefs and reports
• Advising think tanks and government agencies
• Publishing op-eds on AI ethics and regulation
• Organizing international AI policy conferences
• Contributing to strategy design for new AI organizations

These real-world contributions enhance each fellow’s professional profile while making a tangible impact on AI policy development.

Fellowship Benefits

The IAPS AI Policy Fellowship offers a comprehensive professional development experience that combines mentorship, research, and networking.

Key benefits include:

• A $15,000 stipend for fellows ($22,000 for senior fellows)
• Weekly one-on-one coaching with an IAPS coordinator focused on project management and career growth
• Mentorship from top AI policy researchers and practitioners
• Access to IAPS’s extensive professional network and global policy ecosystem
• Opportunities for publication, collaboration, and leadership visibility
• Additional financial assistance (in select cases) to support post-fellowship career transitions

Day-to-Day Experience

Fellows work independently on policy projects while maintaining close collaboration with mentors and IAPS coordinators. Weekly check-ins, progress reviews, and peer learning sessions foster accountability and professional growth.

At the end of the program, fellows present their findings and recommendations to experts and policymakers — demonstrating the real-world value of their contributions to the global AI governance space.

Application Details

Application Deadline: February 2, 2026

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early due to the program’s competitive nature. Applicants can select either the in-person or remote track, depending on their availability and professional goals.

About the Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS)

The Institute for AI Policy and Strategy is a global organization dedicated to advancing the responsible governance of artificial intelligence. IAPS bridges the gap between research, policy, and practice by equipping professionals with the tools to shape effective AI policy solutions.

For full details and application instructions, CLICK HERE

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