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Apply now for the Marcellus Policy Fellowship Fall 2026: Receive a $750 Stipend to Develop Your U.S. Foreign Policy Career

Admin, July 29, 2026July 29, 2026

Application Deadline: August 24 2026

Applications are now open for the Marcellus Policy Fellowship Fall 2026, an exciting opportunity for aspiring foreign policy professionals to sharpen their policy analysis and writing skills while learning from experienced experts in the field.

Offered by the John Quincy Adams Society, the fellowship equips the next generation of policy thinkers with the practical skills needed to influence U.S. national security and foreign policy. Whether you are a university student or an early-career professional, this programme provides structured mentorship, professional development, and financial support to help launch your career.

As international relations continue to shape global security, trade, climate action, and diplomacy, there is a growing demand for thoughtful policy professionals who can analyse complex challenges and communicate effective solutions. The Marcellus Policy Fellowship responds to this need by investing in talented individuals who aspire to shape public policy through research and writing.

For students and young professionals worldwide—including applicants from Africa interested in U.S. foreign policy, diplomacy, or international affairs—this fellowship offers valuable exposure to policy development and a chance to build an impressive professional portfolio.

About the Marcellus Policy Fellowship

The Marcellus Policy Fellowship is an intensive professional development programme created by the John Quincy Adams Society to prepare future leaders in U.S. foreign policy and national security.

Named after the pseudonym “Marcellus,” used by a young John Quincy Adams when publishing influential essays advocating neutrality in European conflicts, the fellowship draws inspiration from his ability to combine strong policy thinking with persuasive public communication.

Throughout the programme, fellows work closely with policy experts to develop analytical thinking and professional writing skills. Participants research contemporary foreign policy challenges, produce a detailed policy paper, draft a policy memorandum, and write an opinion editorial suitable for publication.

The fellowship goes beyond academic learning by helping participants understand how policy ideas influence government decisions, think tanks, media discussions, and public debate.

Each year, the Society selects only 8–12 fellows per cohort, making the programme highly competitive and personalised. Sessions are conducted virtually, allowing participants from different locations to engage with leading experts without relocating.

What You’ll Gain

Successful fellows receive numerous professional and career benefits, including:

  • US$750 fellowship stipend
  • Personalised mentorship from foreign policy experts
  • Advanced training in policy research and analysis
  • Professional guidance on policy writing techniques
  • Experience producing a comprehensive policy paper
  • Opportunity to write a policy memorandum and op-ed
  • Networking with fellow emerging foreign policy professionals
  • Stronger preparation for careers in government, think tanks, academia, media, advocacy, and national security
  • Virtual participation through live Zoom sessions
  • Enhanced résumé with a prestigious fellowship credential

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is designed for individuals interested in building careers related to U.S. foreign policy and national security.

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

  • Current undergraduate or graduate students.
  • Professionals with 0–2 years of experience in foreign policy-related work.
  • Individuals planning to pursue careers in:
    • Government service
    • International affairs
    • National security
    • Public policy
    • Think tanks
    • Academia
    • Journalism and media
    • Policy advocacy
  • Applicants from any country are welcome.
  • U.S. citizenship is not required.

The organisers also clarify that:

  • Internships (paid or unpaid) do not count toward the two-year experience limit.
  • Previous employment outside foreign policy generally does not affect eligibility.
  • Military service only counts if daily responsibilities required substantial foreign policy expertise.

Fellowship Schedule

The Fall 2026 cohort will:

  • Begin in mid-September 2026
  • Meet every Tuesday and Thursday
  • Sessions run from 7:00–8:00 PM Eastern Time
  • Classes are delivered virtually via Zoom

Applicants should ensure they can consistently attend these online sessions.

Application Requirements

Candidates will complete an online application that includes:

  • Personal and contact information
  • Current organisation or employer
  • Career status
  • Proposed foreign policy topic for policy analysis
  • A two-paragraph career goals statement
  • A current résumé (1–2 pages, PDF preferred)

Applicants must also answer three policy-related essay questions covering subjects such as:

  • U.S. military strategy
  • U.S. foreign policy priorities
  • Regional security interests
  • Contemporary international affairs

These essays allow reviewers to assess each applicant’s analytical thinking, writing ability, and understanding of foreign policy issues.

Application Process and Important Dates

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

  1. Complete the online application form.
  2. Upload a current résumé.
  3. Submit responses to all required policy questions.
  4. Review the application carefully before submission.
  5. Submit before the deadline.

Application Deadline:

24 August 2026 at 5:00 PM EST

The Fall Fellowship begins in mid-September 2026, with final admission decisions expected in early September 2026.

Application Link: Visit the official John Quincy Adams Society website and complete the Marcellus Policy Fellowship Fall 2026 application form.

Why You Should Apply

Breaking into foreign policy can be difficult without practical experience and strong writing credentials. The Marcellus Policy Fellowship helps bridge that gap by giving participants the opportunity to develop real policy publications under expert supervision.

Unlike many short online courses, this fellowship requires participants to produce substantial written work that demonstrates analytical ability—an important advantage when applying for graduate programmes, internships, fellowships, or policy-related jobs.

The programme is also particularly valuable because it combines mentorship, writing, and professional networking in one structured experience. Even for applicants outside the United States, the fellowship provides insight into U.S. foreign policy while strengthening transferable skills in research, communication, and strategic analysis.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of selection:

  • Choose a focused and original foreign policy topic.
  • Demonstrate evidence-based analysis rather than personal opinion.
  • Clearly explain how the fellowship supports your long-term career goals.
  • Proofread all essays carefully before submission.
  • Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Conclusion

The Marcellus Policy Fellowship Fall 2026 offers more than financial support—it provides an opportunity to develop the analytical, research, and communication skills required to succeed in today’s competitive foreign policy landscape.

If you aspire to influence international affairs, contribute to national security debates, or pursue a career in diplomacy or public policy, this fellowship could become an important stepping stone toward your professional goals.

Applications close on 24 August 2026, so begin preparing your essays and application materials early.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE

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