Passionate about public policy but not sure where to start? This selective two-month fellowship pairs students with mentors from around the world and applications close August 19.
It’s that time of year again the Institute for Youth in Policy (IYP) has officially opened applications for its Fall Public Policy Fellowship, and it’s one of the more competitive opportunities out there for young people serious about shaping policy conversations.
Here’s everything you need to know before the application window closes.
Quick Overview
- Organization: Institute for Youth in Policy (IYP)
- Programme: Fall Public Policy Fellowship
- Eligible Ages: 16–25
- Duration: Two months
- Application Deadline: August 19
- Decisions Released: August 26
- Cohort Dates: September 12 – November 8
What Is the Fall Public Policy Fellowship?
This is a selective program designed for students ages 16–25 who are passionate about public policy and creating meaningful change. Fellows work alongside talented peers and experienced mentors from around the world, while building the research, writing, analytical, and leadership skills needed to take on today’s most pressing policy challenges.
What Will You Actually Be Doing?
Throughout the two-month program, participants get hands-on experience through:
- Professional development workshops covering key policy skills
- Small-group mentorship with experienced mentors
- Drafting nonpartisan policy briefs addressing political, social, economic, and environmental issues
Beyond the Program: A Global Alumni Network
The fellowship doesn’t end when the cohort wraps up. Fellows are connected to a growing network of accomplished alumni who have gone on to make an impact across:
- Law
- Business
- Public policy
- Consulting
- Technology
- Education
- Other leading fields
Who Should Apply?
This fellowship is built for a wide range of starting points — you don’t need to already be a policy expert. It’s a strong fit whether you are:
- Just beginning your policy journey
- Preparing for a career in public service, law, research, or advocacy
- Looking to learn directly from experienced mentors
- Interested in joining a global community of emerging leaders
Key Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: August 19
- Decisions Released: August 26
- Cohort Dates: September 12 – November 8
Why This Fellowship Stands Out
- It’s genuinely selective, which adds real weight to it on a resume or application
- Mentorship comes from experienced professionals around the world, not just local advisors
- The nonpartisan policy brief format gives fellows a real, tangible research and writing output from the program
- The alumni network spans multiple high-impact industries, offering long-term value well beyond the two-month cohort
Final Thoughts
For students aged 16–25 who want more than a passive introduction to public policy real mentorship, real writing experience, and a genuine global network IYP’s Fall Public Policy Fellowship offers a focused, two-month path to build exactly that.
Application Deadline: August 19
Ready to take the next step in your policy journey? Now’s the time to get your application in.
