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About the FAIT Fellowship Program
The Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship is a unique and prestigious program funded by the U.S. Department of State. It offers an exceptional opportunity for U.S. citizens from underrepresented groups, particularly women and minority students, to pursue an IT-related degree and build a career in the Foreign Service as an Information Management Specialist. If you want to change careers or continue your education in an IT-related field, the FAIT Fellowship could be your stepping stone toward a fulfilling career in diplomacy and technology.
The Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship is designed to foster the development of highly skilled, diverse IT professionals in the U.S. Foreign Service. This fellowship provides not only financial assistance but also invaluable hands-on training through internships and mentorship. By the end of the two-year fellowship, participants will be well-prepared to embark on a rewarding career in the Foreign Service, helping to manage and support the United States’ global IT infrastructure.
Key highlights of the FAIT program include:
- Up to $43,500 annually in academic funding.
- Two summer internships: one in Washington, D.C., and one at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.
- Mentorship opportunities from experienced Foreign Service professionals.
- A guaranteed five-year appointment in the U.S. Foreign Service as an Information Management Specialist after completing the fellowship.
Eligible Fields of Study
The FAIT Fellowship is open to students pursuing various IT-related degrees, including but not limited to:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Computer Engineering
- IT Services Administration
- Computer Systems Networking
Even online degree programs from accredited U.S. institutions are eligible. If you’re unsure whether your degree qualifies, feel free to email FAITFellowship@twc.edu with a link to your program for confirmation.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2025 FAIT Fellowship cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
2. Degree Program: You must be enrolled in or planning to enroll in a full-time, IT-related degree program at a U.S.-based accredited institution.
For an Undergraduate Fellowship:
- Community College Students: You must be seeking admission to an IT-related bachelor’s program for fall 2025, with a timeline to graduate by spring 2027.
- Four-Year College Students: You must already be enrolled in an IT-related bachelor’s program, aiming to graduate by spring 2027.
- Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Students: You must be on track to graduate by spring 2027.
For a Graduate Fellowship:
Applicants must be planning to enter a full-time, IT-related master’s program by fall 2025, with a timeline to graduate by spring 2027.
3. Academic Performance: A minimum GPA of 3.2 on a 4.0 scale is required at the time of application, and fellows must maintain this GPA throughout the program.
4. Commitment: Fellows must agree to a five-year commitment with the U.S. Foreign Service upon successful completion of the fellowship and meeting the State Department’s requirements.
Additionally, women, minority groups, and students with financial need are strongly encouraged to apply, as the fellowship aims to increase diversity in the Foreign Service.
Selection Criteria
Selection for the FAIT program is competitive, with a focus on academic performance, leadership potential, financial need, and a commitment to public service. The application process requires a thorough assessment of the candidate’s academic history and personal background. The selected fellows will undergo the following:
1. Security Clearances: Fellows must obtain and maintain the necessary security clearances and meet the suitability requirements set by the State Department.
2. Medical Requirements: Candidates must also meet minimum medical qualification standards to be eligible for Foreign Service duty.
Benefits of the FAIT Fellowship
The FAIT Fellowship offers a range of financial, educational, and career development benefits to its recipients. These include:
1. Financial Support: Fellows receive up to $43,500 annually for two years. This funding covers tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees, and some travel expenses.
2. Summer Internships: Fellows participate in two paid summer internships. The first internship takes place in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Department of State headquarters, while the second occurs at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. These internships offer hands-on experience in Foreign Service IT operations and the opportunity to work alongside seasoned professionals.
3. Stipends and Allowances: In addition to academic funding, fellows receive stipends, as well as housing and travel allowances during the summer internships.
4. Career as a Foreign Service Officer: Upon successful completion of the fellowship and meeting the State Department’s entry requirements, fellows will be appointed as Information Management Specialists in the U.S. Foreign Service, serving a minimum five-year commitment. This role involves managing IT systems that support the U.S. government’s diplomatic missions worldwide.
Program Duration and Timeline
The FAIT Fellowship is a two-year program, designed to follow a specific timeline:
- Undergraduate Fellowship: Candidates must complete their IT-related bachelor’s or combined bachelor’s/master’s degree by spring 2027, having started four full-time semesters in fall 2025.
- Graduate Fellowship: Candidates pursuing a master’s degree must complete their degree by spring 2027, following the same four full-time semesters starting in fall 2025.
This timeline is essential for eligibility and ensures fellows complete their degrees in sync with the fellowship’s program structure.
Application Process
The application process for the FAIT Fellowship is thorough, and applicants must submit several documents to be considered. These include:
1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship (e.g., passport or birth certificate).
2. Official Transcripts: Include transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.
3. Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement outlining your motivations, goals, and how the FAIT Fellowship aligns with your career aspirations.
4. Résumé: Your updated résumé highlighting relevant academic and extracurricular experiences.
5. Financial Documentation:
- Most Recent Financial Aid Award Letter.
- FAFSA Submission Summary: Your most recent Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) submission.
- Statement of Financial Need: A short statement detailing your financial need and why you are seeking this fellowship.
6. Letter of Recommendation: One letter of recommendation from a professor, employer, or mentor who can speak to your academic abilities, leadership skills, or potential for a career in public service.
How to Apply
To apply, visit The Washington Center’s program application portal via the link below and follow the following steps:
1. Create an Account: If you don’t already have an account, click “Create an Account” on the portal login page.
2. Apply for FAIT Fellowship: Once registered, click the “Apply Now” tab and select the FAIT Fellowship program.
Make sure to submit your application before the deadline to ensure it is considered. Late applications will not be accepted. The deadline for applications is January 21, 2025. Click the link below to apply.
See also:
Valencia College Global Achievers Scholarship 2025/2026 for International Students: Apply Now!
Coca-Cola Scholarship 2024–25: Apply Now!
The University of Turin Scholarships 2024/25 in Italy: Apply Now!
