Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship
Masters Programs @Fellowships posted 2 weeks agoJob Description
Job Description: A USAID fellowship program that develops future Foreign Service Officers in international development. The Payne Fellowship provides up to two years of funding for a master’s degree in international development or related fields and professional training experiences. Its mission is to attract diverse talent to tackle global challenges (poverty, health, climate, etc.) as USAID Foreign Service Officers.
Role Description: Payne Fellows receive financial support for graduate school and internships geared toward a USAID career. They participate in an orientation and two summer internships: one on Capitol Hill (Congress) and one at a USAID Mission overseas. Throughout the fellowship, they receive mentorship and professional development in development diplomacy. After completing the master’s and meeting Foreign Service entry requirements, Fellows join USAID’s Foreign Service, deploying worldwide to design and manage U.S. development programs.
Application Cycle: Annual (application opens in spring/summer and closes in fall of the year before the fellowship start)
What You’ll Need:
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- U.S. citizenship (required)
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.2 GPA (required)
- Acceptance or enrollment in a two-year graduate program in international development, public policy, or a related field (by fall of the award year)
- Age limit: 18–55 years old at application (required)
- Demonstrated interest in global development and commitment to serve in USAID’s Foreign Service
Preferred or Required Qualifications:
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- Required: Academic excellence and leadership experience; strong interest in alleviating global challenges (poverty, hunger, conflict, etc.)
- Preferred: Experience working with diverse cultures or languages; financial need is considered
- Must fulfill medical, security, and suitability requirements for USAID Foreign Service and commit to a minimum of 5 years of service after fellowship
Benefits and Perks:
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- Up to $104,000 total funding over two years of graduate school (covers tuition, fees, stipend, and internship support) – Approximately $52,000 per year for academic expenses and living costs
- Two summer internships with stipend and travel housing support: Capitol Hill internship (Congressional office) and USAID overseas internship
- Mentoring by USAID Foreign Service Officers and tailored professional development training
- Appointment as a USAID Foreign Service Officer upon successful completion (with a 5-year service commitment)
Where and How You Can Apply:
Official Website: apply.paynefellows.org – Application – Apply online by submitting transcripts, personal essays, letters of recommendation, and proof of acceptance to a graduate program. The selection process includes an interview for finalists in January.
