Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship
Masters Programs @Fellowships posted 2 weeks agoJob Description
Job Description: A State Department fellowship for tech-savvy students who aspire to apply their IT skills to diplomacy. The FAIT Fellowship is a merit-and-need-based program that funds two years of undergraduate or graduate study in IT-related fields, paired with internships and training. Its goal is to cultivate future Foreign Service Information Management Specialists who will support U.S. diplomacy through technology.
Role Description: FAIT Fellows receive tuition assistance for the final two years of an IT-related bachelor’s or a two-year master’s program, along with two summer internships (one at the Department of State in Washington, D.C., and one at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad). They also benefit from mentorship and professional development. Upon completing the degree, Fellows enter the Foreign Service as Information Management Specialists, using their tech expertise to manage diplomatic communications and information systems (with a minimum five-year service commitment).
Application Cycle: Annual (application opens mid-year and selections are made by early the next year)
What You’ll Need:
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- U.S. citizenship (required)
- Enrollment as a junior in an IT-related undergraduate program or acceptance into a two-year IT-related master’s program (e.g. computer science, information systems)
- Minimum 3.2 GPA recommended (the program is competitive)
- Demonstrated financial need (program is intended to support those with need) and an interest in public service
Preferred or Required Qualifications:
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- Required: Academic focus in information technology or computer science; ability to obtain security clearance
- Preferred: Leadership or work experience in tech (e.g., internships, IT projects)
- Willingness to serve as a Diplomatic Technology Officer (Information Management Specialist) worldwide and commitment to a 5-year service in the Foreign Service upon completion
Benefits and Perks:
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- Academic funding for two years (covers up to $37,500 annually for tuition, fees, and living stipend for junior & senior years of undergrad or a two-year master’s)
- Two paid State Department internships: one domestic in Washington, D.C., and one overseas, offering hands-on experience in diplomatic IT operations
- Professional development training and mentorship throughout the fellowship
- Appointment as a Foreign Service Information Management Specialist after graduation, with expedited entry into the role
Where and How You Can Apply:
Official Website: www.faitfellowship.org  – How to Apply— Submit an online application that includes personal essays, proof of financial need (FAFSA/student aid report), transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Applicants may be required to take the Foreign Service entry assessments as part of the selection.
