The New York City Urban Fellows Program 2027–2028 is a nine-month fellowship for recent college graduates interested in public service, government, and public policy.
Sponsored by the City of New York, the program offers hands-on experience in city agencies and Mayoral offices, leadership seminars, and a $37,355 stipend.
Applications are open, and eligible candidates should apply before the January 11, 2027 deadline.
New York City Urban Fellows Program 2027–2028: Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | New York City Urban Fellows |
| Host | City of New York |
| Administered by | Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) |
| Location | New York City, USA |
| Duration | Nine months |
| Fellowship period | September 7, 2027 – May 12, 2028 |
| Stipend | $37,355 |
| Additional benefit | Health insurance, excluding dental and vision |
| Eligible degree dates | Spring 2025 to Spring 2027, subject to the program’s exclusions |
| Application deadline | January 11, 2027, at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time |
| Official application | Apply for the Urban Fellows Program |
About the New York City Urban Fellows Program
The Urban Fellows Program introduces recent graduates to local government and public policy. Selected fellows work with New York City agencies and Mayoral offices, helping them understand how government decisions are made and how public services are delivered.
The program also includes seminars, volunteer service opportunities, and discussions with public and private sector leaders.
It is suitable for graduates interested in careers in government, public administration, policy development, community service, and nonprofit leadership.
Benefits of the Urban Fellows Program
Successful applicants receive:
- $37,355 stipend for the nine-month fellowship. The stipend is taxable.
- Health insurance, excluding dental and vision coverage.
- Practical experience working with New York City government agencies.
- Exposure to public policy development and government operations.
- Opportunities to learn from experienced public officials and leaders.
- Professional development through seminars and engagement with other fellows.
Important: The program does not cover housing or relocation expenses. It is not a university scholarship and does not provide student financial aid.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2027–2028 fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Have received or expect to receive a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college within the eligible period of Spring 2025 to Spring 2027.
- Not have received the bachelor’s degree before January 2025 or in Summer 2027.
- Be available to participate full-time for the entire nine-month fellowship.
- Be legally eligible to work in the United States throughout the fellowship.
Applicants do not have to be U.S. citizens. However, the program does not sponsor work visas. International applicants must already be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the United States for the full fellowship period.
Eligibility is based on the bachelor’s degree date, not the date a master’s degree was earned. There is no age limit for otherwise eligible applicants.
Check the official eligibility requirements before applying.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following materials:
- Unofficial college transcripts: Include transcripts for all colleges attended and the most recent semester’s work.
- One-page resume: Include work experience, volunteer activities, leadership roles, and school or community involvement.
- Personal statement: A maximum of 750 words explaining why you want to join the program, what you can contribute, and what you hope to gain.
- Policy recommendation essay: A maximum of 1,000 words discussing an important policy issue affecting New Yorkers and proposing how it should be addressed.
- Three references: Provide the names and email addresses of three people who can recommend you. At least one must be a current or former supervisor.
Your references must submit their recommendation letters by the application deadline. Follow up with them to confirm submission. The application is not complete until all required reference responses have been received.
Read the official application instructions for the full requirements.
How to Apply for the New York City Urban Fellows Program
Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Check your eligibility. Confirm that your bachelor’s degree date and U.S. work authorization meet the program’s requirements.
- Prepare your documents. Complete your one-page resume, transcripts, personal statement, and policy recommendation essay.
- Choose your references. Contact three suitable recommenders in advance, including at least one current or former supervisor.
- Complete the online application. Submit your information and documents through the official application form.
- Confirm your references have responded. Ensure all three recommendation letters are submitted before the deadline.
- Check your confirmation emails. The program states that applicants should receive a final confirmation once all reference responses have been received.
Do not wait until the final day to submit your application, as your references also need time to complete their recommendations.
For more details, click here.
Application Deadline and Timeline
The deadline for the 2027–2028 New York City Urban Fellows Program is January 11, 2027, at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
The published timeline is:
- January 11, 2027: Application deadline.
- Mid to late February 2027: Applicants are notified about their application status.
- March 2027: Finalist interviews take place virtually.
- April 2027: Applicants are notified of their interview status and selection outcome.
- September 7, 2027: Fellowship begins.
- May 12, 2028: Fellowship ends.
Always check the official program information page for updates.
FAQs
1. Is the New York City Urban Fellows Program paid?
Yes. Fellows receive a taxable stipend of $37,355 for the nine-month program. Health insurance is also provided, although dental and vision coverage are excluded.
2. Can international students apply?
International applicants can apply if they meet the academic eligibility requirements and are legally authorized to work in the United States for the entire fellowship. The program does not sponsor work visas, so applicants who need visa sponsorship should review this requirement carefully.
3. Does the fellowship cover housing and travel?
No. The City does not pay for housing or relocation expenses. Applicants should plan how they will cover accommodation and other living costs in New York City.
4. What degree is required?
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college within the specified eligibility period. Eligibility is determined by the date of the bachelor’s degree, not a master’s degree.
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