How To Apply

The application for 2025 cohort of the William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship is now closed.

The Clarke DS Fellowship application for the 2026 cohort is planned to open in early 2025. Sign up for email updates and notification of when the application opens by clicking the button below.

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Clarke DS Fellowship Timeline

Below is a general timeline for the 2025 cohort of the Clarke DS Fellowship program.

  • February 12, 2024 to April 29, 2024 (11:59 pm ET): Applications Accepted
  • May – June, 2024:  Interviews and Selection
  • Summer 2025: Orientation
  • Summer 2025: Domestic Practicum (10 weeks) and Professional Development Series
  • Fall 2025: First semester of your master’s degree program
  • Spring 2026: Second semester of your master’s degree program
  • Summer 2026: Overseas Practicum (10 weeks)
  • Fall 2026: Third semester of your master’s degree program
  • Spring 2027: Final semester of your master’s degree program
  • Post-graduation 2027: DSS Special Agent Appointment

Application Documents

Your application must include:

U.S. passport, birth certificate or naturalization papers

An unofficial copy for any universities/colleges you attended for more than two semesters

Explain why you want to pursue a career in the Foreign Service (750 words max.):

Maximum two-page resume that highlights your leadership skills (read this article for tips)

If you received financial aid during the most recent academic year, you are required to submit a Financial Aid Letter listing grants or loans.

  • If you received financial aid during the most recent academic year, you are required to submit your SAR form.
  • If you did not receive financial aid during the most recent academic year, you must complete the FAFSA 2023-24 to generate an SAR. Please do not complete the FAFSA 2024-25 Form.

Use this as an opportunity to address any financial hardship or impactful adversity you may have experienced that affects your overall financial standing. You may also include:

  • Assistance you received during your undergraduate studies
  • Your overall education-related debt
  • Your ability/plans to pay for graduate school

Select recommenders who can explain why you are uniquely qualified for the fellowship.

  • If you were enrolled in a degree-granting program within the last two years, the letter must be from a professor or faculty member who knows you.
  • If you have been in an online program, you may select an individual who is familiar with your academics, professional work, or volunteer/community activities.
  • If you are returning to graduate school after a couple of years, choose someone who is familiar with your academics, professional work, or volunteer/community activities.