Frequently asked questions are answered below.
I am a PhD student. Can I still apply for this fellowship?
Yes, applicants enrolled in a community college, undergraduate, or graduate program (through the doctoral level) are eligible for the fellowship.
I am a community college student. Can I still apply for this fellowship?
Yes, applicants enrolled in a community college, undergraduate, or graduate program (through the doctoral level) are eligible for the fellowship.
Is preference given to graduate students who apply over undergraduate or community college students?
No, applicants, whether a community college, undergraduate, or graduate student, are selected based on the overall strength of their application and on how well their interests and strengths align with the program’s goals.
Do I have to be an international relations or Asia specialist to be a fellow?
No, while many fellows will have an interest in policy and/or Asia, this program accepts applicants who are deeply engaged in their communities in the Pacific Northwest, interested in policy, and/or are from international relations, political science, international law, foreign area studies, and related fields.
How many fellows does this program normally accept?
A given year’s cohort can range in size depending on the number of qualified students who apply and are accepted into the program. Cohorts in the past have ranged anywhere from six to 20 fellows.
I am an international student. Can I still apply for this fellowship?
No, applicants to the fellowship must be U.S. citizens.
I am a young professional who has graduated college or a graduate program in the last few years. Can I still apply for this fellowship?
No, applicants must be a U.S. citizen currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program to be eligible for the fellowship.
I am a student at a university outside the United States. Can I still apply for the fellowship?
Fellows must be U.S. citizens and be able to participate—in person—at NBR’s Seattle office.
How often will fellows meet during the six-month fellowship?
Fellows will meet 2 to 3 times a month at NBR’s Seattle office for 1.5-hour classes, typically on Friday afternoons.
Can I defer my fellowship award?
No, applicants selected as fellows cannot defer the fellowship. Applicants who are still eligible may reapply for the fellowship the following year.
Can a previous fellow apply for the fellowship again?
No, applicants must not have previously participated as a fellow in the program.
Does the letter of recommendation have to come from a work supervisor, or could it also come from a professor?
Yes, letters of recommendation can come from either a work or academic supervisor: an academic supervisor who writes your recommendation letter will ideally be a professor who taught you in class and knows you well.
What should my writing sample be about?
The purpose of the writing sample is to demonstrate your analytical thinking, ability to clearly express ideas and arguments, and to provide an example of what you are interested in. The writing sample should best represent who you are, your abilities, and why you are an emerging policy leader and thinker.