FAQ

No, but you will need to have graduated by the time you would begin the fellowship.

Yes. However, they must be able to work full-time for at least six months.

Yes, although most Scoville Fellows have graduated within two years of beginning their fellowship.

No. While most fellows have majored in government, history, international relations, peace studies, political science or related fields, anyone may apply if he/she has a background in peace and security issues.

Yes, provided that you obtain the proper work visa.

No.

Yes.

The program has a preference for individuals who have not had substantial prior public-interest or government experience in the Washington, DC area, and we do not generally select people who are working in DC.

Yes.

Yes.

Consult the issue areas covered by the Scoville Fellowship to determine if your essay topic is pertinent. There are many important topics, e.g., human rights, that fall outside of the purview of the Scoville Fellowship. Some of the participating organizations conduct work in areas not covered by the Scoville Fellowship, so do not assume that if one of the groups you are interested in working with covers that topic, that it is an acceptable essay for your application. The program does not approve topics so make your own decision.

No, although many applicants cite footnotes.

Yes.

Reference letters and transcripts may arrive separately, but the items generated by the applicant must be emailed as one file.

No. Applicants apply only to the Scoville Fellowship. Once selected, Scoville Fellows choose their fellowship placement.

The program makes every effort to notify applicants if materials have not arrived by the application deadline. However, it is the responsibility of the applicant to have all materials, including transcripts and letters of recommendation, emailed on time. Applicants are encouraged to contact the program director to ensure that their materials have arrived.

Over the past several years we have selected fewer than 3% of applicants as Scoville Fellows.

No, although most fellows are able to work with their first choice of organization. However, fellows may not work with an organization that hosted a fellow in the previous semester. If more than one fellow wishes to work at a particular organization, the organization selects the person they prefer. Occasionally an organization does not need, or lacks the work space for, a fellow. We therefore recommend that applicants consider at least five or six of the participating organizations.

No.

No.

No. Applicants may only apply for the semester they plan to work.

Some are hired by their host organization or another public-interest organization that focuses on peace and security issues. Some work for the Federal Government. Many enter law school or graduate programs in political science or international relations.

No.

No.

Yes. All applicants who are not selected for an interview will be notified by mail or e-mail.

Yes.