The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship provides recent college graduates and young professionals with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in peace and security policy. The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship Program offers recent college and graduate school alumni full-time fellowships lasting six to nine months in Washington, D.C. Fellows work with nonprofit organizations focused on peace and security issues. Scoville Fellows will work with one of 26 participating organizations. With support from alumni, the board, and staff, fellows choose placements that align with their interests and the host organization’s needs. Host organizations provide office space, guidance, and supervision for fellows.
Fellows work with leading organizations in Washington, D.C., contributing to initiatives addressing arms control, conflict resolution, and international security. The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship helps college graduates gain practical knowledge and experience by working with nonprofit organizations focused on peace and security. The application deadline
Fall 2025 Fellowship–January 6, 2025
Spring 2026 Fellowship–October 6, 2025
Institutions
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship partners with prestigious nonprofit and public-interest organizations in Washington, D.C., rather than specific universities.
- Name and Place: Various policy organizations in Washington, D.C.
- Programs: Fellows engage in research, advocacy, and policy development related to arms control, conflict resolution, nuclear disarmament, and environmental security.
- Duration: The fellowship lasts for 6 to 9 months.
Study Areas
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship focuses on diverse and critical areas of peace and security policy. Fellows engage with topics such as:
- Arms Control and Disarmament: Exploring measures to reduce the spread of conventional and nuclear weapons.
- Conflict Prevention and Resolution: Developing strategies to address global conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue.
- Nuclear Non-Proliferation: Promoting international agreements to limit the spread of nuclear weapons and technology.
- Environmental and Climate Security: Analyzing the link between climate change and global security threats.
- Defense Budget and Military Policy: Examining government defense expenditures and their implications.
- International Diplomacy: Facilitating collaborations among nations to enhance global peace and security.
Fellowship Benefits
- Fellows receive a salary of $4,079 per month
- Basic health insurance compensation
- Travel expenses to Washington, DC.
- The program gives each fellow $1,000 for professional development, covering travel, accommodations, registration fees for conferences or meetings, or expenses for a language or policy course.
- The program connects fellows with policy experts and organizes networking events with alumni.
- Fellows receive mentorship from a board member and a former fellow.
Benefits Not Included
- Visa processing fees (for non-U.S. citizens).
Eligibilities
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Received a bachelor’s or master’s degree within the past few years
- Have a background and strong interest in one or more of the approved policy issues addressed by the fellowship [link to list of issues]
- Excellent academic accomplishments
- Good written and oral communication skills
- Prior experience with public-interest activism or advocacy is highly desirable
- Considering a career working on international peace and security issues with public-interest organizations, the Federal Government, academia, or media
- United States citizens living in the U.S. or overseas are eligible to apply
- Non-U.S. citizens can only apply if they live in the U.S. and hold a U.S. work visa for the fellowship’s duration. Those living outside the U.S. are not eligible.
- The Scoville Fellowship is not for students or scholars aiming to conduct independent research in Washington, DC
- Candidates must not use generative artificial intelligence (AI) programs (such as ChatGPT) to write any of their materials
- For More
Required Documents
- Updated resume/CV (no more than two pages).
- A personal essay of no more than 750 words
- A policy/opinion essay of no more than 750 words
- Official transcript(s) detailing the candidate’s entire college academic record including undergraduate, graduate, and foreign study.
- Two letters of reference.
- Details
Application Process
- Visit the official website and review eligibility requirements.
- Applicants will need to create a Submittable account before beginning the Scoville Fellowship application.
- Prepare and submit all required documents through the online application portal.
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
- Successful applicants will receive offers via email.
- If you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of submitting your application, please contact at scovillefellowship@gmail.com
Tips for Successful Application
- Highlight specific experiences that demonstrate your passion for peace and security.
- Ensure your personal statement outlines how the fellowship aligns with your career goals.
- Choose recommenders familiar with your academic and professional skills.
- Submit a well-structured, relevant writing sample that showcases your expertise.
- Proofread your application meticulously to avoid errors.
Monthly Living Expenses
Living in Washington, D.C., can be expensive, but the fellowship’s stipend of $4,200 per month is designed to cover most expenses. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
- Housing: $1,500–$2,200 (shared apartment or studio).
- Utilities (electricity, internet, water): $150–$250.
- Food and Groceries: $400–$600.
- Transportation: $120–$150 (public transit passes or occasional ride-shares).
- Miscellaneous (entertainment, personal care): $200–$300.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship is a stepping stone for individuals passionate about shaping global peace and security. It connects fellows with influential mentors, equips them with hands-on policy experience, and provides access to a thriving network of professionals in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can international students apply?
A1: Yes, if they hold work authorization for the U.S.
Q2: How competitive is the fellowship?
A2: Highly competitive, with a rigorous application and selection process.
Q3: Can fellows choose their host organization?
A3: Fellows can express preferences, but placements depend on alignment with host needs.
Q4: Are remote options available?
A4: The fellowship is primarily in-person in Washington, D.C.
Q5: What career paths do alumni pursue?
A5: Alumni work in NGOs, think tanks, government agencies, and international organizations.
Official Link
For detailed information and application submission, visit the Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship website.