About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Institute for Youth in Policy (YIP) Public Policy Fellowship is a two-month development programme designed for young people interested in public policy, leadership and creating positive social change.
The fellowship helps participants understand how public policy is developed, analysed and used to address social, political, economic and environmental challenges.
Throughout the programme, fellows collaborate with peers, YIP department executives, political and educational leaders, mentors and community stakeholders. They explore current policy issues, develop innovative solutions and strengthen their understanding of policy from personal, local and global perspectives.
Participants also complete a capstone project, allowing them to apply their learning to a practical issue or challenge.
Benefits of the YIP Public Policy Fellowship
Selected fellows participate in activities designed to strengthen their leadership and policy development skills. Benefits include:
Policy education: Gain a deeper understanding of public policy and the systems that shape decision-making.
Leadership development: Build confidence and practical skills for civic engagement and social impact.
Workshops and seminars: Participate in interactive learning sessions, discussions and debates.
Mentorship: Receive guidance from programme mentors and experienced professionals.
Policy writing experience: Collaborate with peers to write and present an original policy brief.
Capstone project: Develop an independent project addressing a relevant policy issue.
Communication and critical thinking: Strengthen analytical writing, articulation, problem-solving, debate and nonpartisan thinking.
Networking: Engage with other young leaders and people working in policy, education and community development.
Fellows may explore topics such as social change, urban renewal, public policy reform, smart infrastructure and technology, and education.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
Be between 13 and 23 years old.
Be a current high school or undergraduate student.
Have an interest in or experience with social impact, community organising, civic engagement, design thinking, advocacy or public discourse.
Be willing to participate in programme activities and complete the required policy brief and capstone project.
Important eligibility restriction: The announcement states that the fellowship is not open to international applicants. The programme is designed for students in the United States, with activities scheduled around US time zones and a focus on US public policy and political systems.
Graduate students and individuals who have already graduated are not eligible.
Application Process
Interested students should follow these steps:
Visit the Institute for Youth in Policy’s official website.
Locate the Public Policy Fellowship application page.
Review the eligibility criteria and programme expectations.
Complete the online fellowship application form.
Provide the information requested by YIP.
Submit the application according to the instructions on the official platform.
Applicants should confirm the current application period and any additional requirements before submitting their applications.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the 2027 fellowship was not provided in the supplied announcement. Prospective applicants should check the official website for the latest application dates and programme updates.
How to Apply
Visit the Institute for Youth in Policy’s official website for programme information and access to the application form:
Official website: https://yipinstitute.org/
Note: Although this fellowship offers valuable policy and leadership development, it is intended for eligible students in the United States and is not open to international applicants under the stated eligibility conditions.
How to apply