How To Apply

The application for the Clarke DS Fellowship 2023 cohort is closed. Applications were accepted October 3, 2022, through November 30, 2022 (11:59 pm Eastern Time).

The application for the 2024 cohort will open next year in late summer. The dates for the application period will be posted here. To receive email updates on the application dates, click the button below and sign up for our email list.

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Clarke DS Fellowship Timeline

Below is a general timeline for the 2023 cohort of the Clarke DS Fellowship program.

  • October 3 – November 30, 2022 (11:59 pm ET): Applications accepted
  • January 2023:  Notifications of finalist selections are sent via email
  • January 2023: Finalists complete Physical Readiness Test (PRT) and participate remotely in the interview and selection process
  • June 2023: In-person Orientation for the Clarke DS Fellowship Program
  • June-August 2023:  Domestic Practicum (10 weeks) and Professional Development Series
  • September 2023: First year of your graduate program begins
  • June-August 2024: Overseas Practicum (10 weeks)
  • September 2024: Second year of your graduate program begins
  • Spring 2025:  Re-take the Physical Readiness Test (PRT)
  • May 2025: Graduate with your master’s degree
  • After graduation: Enter the Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Security Service Special Agent in the first available Foreign Service Orientation class

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 to generate an SAR.

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.