FAIT Fellowship 2025: Apply Now!

About the FAITH Fellowship Program

The Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship is a prestigious program funded by the U.S. Department of State.

It provides a unique opportunity for U.S. citizens from underrepresented groups, especially women and minority students, to pursue an IT-related degree and build a career in the Foreign Service as Information Management Specialists.

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Whether you are looking to change careers or further your education in an IT field, the FAIT Fellowship can serve as a valuable stepping stone toward a rewarding career in diplomacy and technology.

The FAIT Fellowship aims to develop a diverse group of highly skilled IT professionals for the U.S. Foreign Service.

In addition to financial support, the program offers hands-on training through internships and mentorship.

By the end of the two-year fellowship, participants will be well-equipped to start a fulfilling career in the Foreign Service, managing and supporting 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 with 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

Online degree programs from accredited U.S. institutions are also eligible. If you’re unsure whether your degree qualifies, please 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 an accredited U.S. institution. For an Undergraduate Fellowship:

— Community College Students: You must seek admission to an IT-related bachelor’s program for fall 2025 and plan to graduate by spring 2027.

— Four-Year College Students: You must already be enrolled in an IT-related bachelor’s program and aim 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 plan 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 to 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, focusing on academic performance, leadership potential, financial need, and a commitment to public service.

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The application process involves a comprehensive assessment of the candidate’s academic history and personal background.

The selected fellows will need to meet the following requirements:

1. Security Clearances: Fellows must obtain and maintain the necessary security clearances and meet the suitability requirements established 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 FAITH Fellowship

The FAIT Fellowship provides a variety of financial, educational, and career development benefits, including:

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 takes place in Washington, D.C., at the U.S. Department of State headquarters, and the second occurs at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. These internships offer hands-on experience in Foreign Service IT operations and the chance to work alongside experienced professionals.
3. Stipends and Allowances: In addition to academic funding, fellows receive stipends, as well as housing and travel allowances during their 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 that follows 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 also complete their degree by spring 2027, following the same four full-time semesters starting in fall 2025.

This timeline is crucial for eligibility and ensures that fellows complete their degrees in alignment with the fellowship’s structure.

Application Process

The application process for the FAIT Fellowship is comprehensive, requiring applicants to submit several documents for consideration, including:

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-written personal statement outlining your motivations, goals, and how the FAIT Fellowship aligns with your career aspirations.
4. Résumé: An 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 brief statement detailing your financial situation and reasons for 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 using the link below and follow these 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 the FAIT Fellowship: Once registered, click the “Apply Now” tab and select the FAIT Fellowship program.
3. Submit Your Application: Be 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.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

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