Professional Fellows Program 2026 in the USA | Fully Funded Exchange for Global Leaders

The Professional Fellows Program (PFP) 2026 is a highly competitive, fully funded exchange initiative for early to mid-career professionals dedicated to public service, innovation, and community development. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and managed by the American Councils for International Education, the program offers participants a unique opportunity to enhance their leadership capabilities and engage in practical learning experiences within U.S.-based organisations.

Taking place over five to six weeks, PFP 2026 is tailored for professionals from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey. Participants are placed in U.S. institutions—ranging from government agencies to NGOs and private sector companies—where they gain hands-on experience, expand their professional networks, and develop solutions to local challenges through follow-on projects back home.

This program is ideal for professionals in governance, civic engagement, public policy, and nonprofit management who are eager to drive change within their communities through international collaboration and skill development.

Program Details

Host Country: United States of America
Funding Sponsor: U.S. Department of State
Program Administrator: American Councils for International Education
Program Duration: 5 to 6 weeks
Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
Eligible Countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey
Target Group: Professionals aged 25–35 with at least 2 years of work experience

What the Fellowship Covers

Participants selected for the PFP 2026 will receive:

Round-trip international airfare to and from the United States
Visa processing and application fees
Housing and basic living expenses
Comprehensive leadership training and mentorship
Access to U.S.-based institutions for a professional placement
Cultural exchange activities and community engagement
Language support (if required)
Certificate of program completion
Post-program support for implementing a community project

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the PFP 2026, applicants must:

Be a citizen and resident of one of the eligible countries
Be between 25 and 35 years old at the time of application
Have at least two years of full-time professional experience
Be employed in civil society, government, or private sector roles
Show strong leadership potential and community involvement
Be fluent in English (written and spoken)
Demonstrate a commitment to cross-cultural collaboration
Propose a feasible project to implement upon return
Adapt well to fast-paced, multicultural environments

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following materials:

Completed online application form
Educational background and academic transcripts
Detailed CV or resume in English
Three short essays on motivation, leadership, and project goals
Two professional letters of recommendation
Signed Participant Agreement
Signed Privacy Policy Statement from American Councils

Selection Process

Written Application Review: Evaluated for alignment with program goals, leadership potential, and social impact.
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates are invited for virtual interviews.
Final Selection: Based on merit, professional experience, proposed community project, and potential for long-term impact.

How to Apply for the Professional Fellows Program 2026

Interested applicants must follow these steps:

Visit the official application portal: https://professionalfellows.americancouncils.org
Create an account and log in to access the online application form
Provide accurate personal and professional information
Upload all required supporting documents (PDF format)
Carefully review the application before submission
Submit before the final deadline: July 31, 2025

Why Apply?

The Professional Fellows Program is more than an exchange—it is a career-transforming opportunity to collaborate internationally, build lasting relationships, and implement meaningful change in your community. Participants return home equipped with global insights, expanded networks, and actionable solutions tailored to local needs.

Apply Now: https://www.professionalfellows.americancouncils.org/about-the-program