Scholarship Overview
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Program Overview
The Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Junior Summer Institute is a competitive, fully funded summer program designed for college juniors interested in public service careers. The 2027 program offers participants the opportunity to study at one of three prestigious institutions: Harvard University, Princeton University, or the University of Michigan.
This intensive program combines graduate-level coursework, professional development, and community building to prepare students for success in public policy graduate programs and careers in government, international affairs, and public service.
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Host Institutions and Focus Areas
Each participating institute offers distinct strengths and specializations:
- Harvard University Kennedy School of Government — Economic Policy, Public Policy, Government
- Princeton University School of Public & International Affairs — International Economics, Foreign Policy, Diplomacy
- University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy — Public Policy, Economic Policy, Education Policy
Applicants should consider which institution’s faculty expertise and programmatic focus align best with their academic interests and career goals.
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What the Fellowship Covers
The PPIA Junior Summer Institute is fully funded, removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent participation. The award includes:
- Summer stipend — Financial support to help you focus on the experience
- Funded coursework — Graduate-level classes in policy, economics, statistics, leadership, and related areas
- Housing and books — On-campus accommodation and course materials provided
- Career coaching — Guidance connecting academic interests with meaningful next steps
This comprehensive funding package ensures that selected Fellows can fully engage with the academic and professional development opportunities without financial distraction.
Eligibility Requirements
The program is open to students who will graduate in December 2027 or between May and August 2028. This timing is specifically designed for students in their junior year of undergraduate study.
For African applicants, including those from Zimbabwe and the broader SADC region, this program represents a significant opportunity to gain exposure to top-tier American graduate education and build international networks in public policy. Strong candidates typically demonstrate:
- Clear commitment to public service or policy-related careers
- Academic excellence in relevant coursework
- Leadership experience in campus or community settings
- Interest in pursuing graduate education in public policy, international affairs, or related fields
Application Timeline and Support
The application deadline is November 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST. PPIA offers three live virtual seminars to help applicants prepare strong applications:
- September 23, 2026 (6:00–7:00 PM Eastern) — Discover PPIA and the Junior Summer Institute: Overview of the program, eligibility, and how it can shape your future
- October 6, 2026 (6:00–7:00 PM Eastern) — Inside the Junior Summer Institute: Hear from former Fellows about their experiences
- October 19, 2026 (4:00–5:00 PM Eastern) — Put Your Best Application Forward: Practical guidance from institute directors on application requirements and common mistakes to avoid
These seminars are particularly valuable for international applicants who may be less familiar with American graduate school application conventions.
Why Apply: Long-Term Benefits
Beyond the immediate summer experience, PPIA Fellows join a lifelong community of public service professionals. The program’s alumni network spans government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and academic institutions worldwide. For students from underrepresented backgrounds in international policy spaces, including African nationals, the program provides credentialing and connections that can significantly accelerate career trajectories.
The graduate-level coursework also offers concrete preparation for Master’s applications, including familiarization with American academic expectations and potential letters of recommendation from leading faculty.
Contact Information
For questions not addressed in the application seminars, contact the PPIA Program office at office@ppiaprogram.org or by mail at Office 712 H Street NE #1214, Washington, DC 20002-3627.
Official scholarship page: https://www.ppiaprogram.org/fellowship
You apply directly with the provider. We never charge for applications or ask for payment details. How we verify scholarships
