The GovAI DC Fellowship is a unique opportunity for individuals aiming to advance their careers in US AI policy. Applications are now open for the 2026 summer program, which runs from June 8 to August 28 in Washington, DC. Importantly, the deadline to apply is March 1, 2026. This fellowship targets early-career professionals, undergraduates, experienced experts, and those transitioning from related fields. Fellows receive a generous stipend and access to top-tier mentorship, making this program highly competitive and rewarding.
Throughout the fellowship, participants conduct independent research on an AI governance topic of their choice. They benefit from guidance by leading experts, hands-on workshops, and networking events. The program aims to foster bipartisan collaboration and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. However, you must already have legal authorization to work in the US through August 28, 2026, as GovAI does not sponsor visas.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 (11:59 PM ET)
Eligible Countries: United States (must have legal work authorization)
Program Duration: June 8 – August 28, 2026
Program Location: Washington, DC, USA
Funding/Benefits: $21,000 stipend ($7,000/month) plus travel support
Award Provider: GovAI
About this Program
GovAI, a nonprofit focused on AI governance, organizes this three-month, in-person fellowship. Fellows conduct independent research on AI policy topics, aiming to produce outputs such as white papers, journal articles, op-eds, or policy reports. The first two weeks focus on exploring the AI policy landscape, after which fellows finalize their research proposal with supervisor input. The program includes Q&A sessions with policy experts, peer feedback meetings, and networking opportunities. Therefore, fellows gain both practical experience and valuable connections in the AI policy community.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to early-career individuals (including undergraduates), experienced professionals, and career switchers from fields like public policy, computer science, economics, cybersecurity, China studies, or risk management.
- No strict degree requirements.
- Applicants must demonstrate quality reasoning, clear writing, relevant expertise, good judgment, and openness to feedback.
- Critical: You must have legal authorization to work in the United States through August 28, 2026.
- GovAI does not sponsor visas.
What Fellows Receive: $21,000 stipend, travel support, mentorship, and access to networking events
Program Components: Independent research, expert mentorship, workshops, peer feedback, Q&A sessions, and networking
How to Apply
- Complete the written application by the deadline (March 1, 2026, 11:59 PM ET).
- Participate in an abstract reasoning assessment.
- Complete a paid remote work test if shortlisted.
- Attend interviews and provide references if selected for the final stage.
For questions, contact [email protected]. The application link is provided below.
👉 Visit the application webpage for details
