The goal of the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship Program is to help prepare to pursue Masters' or joint degree, typically in public policy, public administration, international affairs, or a related field. The organization does this through the intensive study provided by participation in a Junior Summer Institute (JSI), through partnerships with universities across the country, and through an alumni network that provides opportunities to connect with nearly 4000 individuals who share the same interest in public service.
Each year, PPIA seeks out high-potential undergraduate students from universities across the country to participate in an intensive seven-week Junior Summer Institute (JSI) before their senior year. During their program, fellows are equipped with the knowledge and skills they will need to succeed in graduate school and ultimately, in influential roles serving the public good.
Once a student has completed their JSI, they join an alumni network of leaders. In addition to the opportunities that this network provides for mentoring and career development, our alumni network has the opportunity to receive financial support for their graduate school education if they attend one of the programs in our Graduate School Consortium.
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION
- Full tuition at a PPIA Junior Summer Institute.
- Eligibility to receive assistance with travel expenses.
- A stipend.
- University housing with a meal plan.
- Books and related course materials at your JSI.
- Each JSI may offer additional benefits, such as GRE preparation, at their discretion. Please check with each JSI about any additional benefits.
- Minimum of a one-time $5,000 scholarship at a PPIA graduate school if admitted for a Master’s degree. PPIA Fellows often receive financial offers above and beyond this minimum from their graduate program.
- Fee waiver when applying to schools that are members of the PPIA Graduate School Consortium.
ELIGIBILITY
- If you are a United States citizen or legal permanent resident you are eligible to apply to all JSI programs. In addition, international students will be eligible for select JSI programs. Students with DACA are welcome to apply.
- Applicants must have an expected graduation date in the following academic year following the JSI program (Applicants for this cycle must graduate with their first bachelor's degree between December 2021 and August 2022).
- Must not have attained a Bachelor’s Degree prior to start of Junior Summer Institute.
- Must be committed to completing a Master’s Degree in public and/or international affairs at one of the PPIA Consortium graduate schools.
- Must demonstrate an interest in pursuing a professional career associated with public service such as government, nonprofits, humanitarian and international organizations and other related programs.
- Must be interested in contributing to the diversity of perspectives present in the PPIA Junior Summer Institute Program. You must specifically demonstrate involvement in working to improve historically underserved or underrepresented communities, including African Americans, Asian Americans, Latino/as, Native Americans and Pacific Islanders.
- Economic need is given consideration during the review of applications.
- All academic majors are welcome to apply.
Depending on which JSI campus you select, some additional requirements may apply. Please be sure to visit the PPIA website for complete details.