How To Apply

Applications for the Clarke DS Fellowship 2024 cohort are being accepted July 18, 2023, to October 1, 2023, at 11:59 pm (EDT). Applications submitted after the deadline date will not be considered, so please take note of your local time zone.

Before you start your application, please read the Eligibility Requirements and the Physical Readiness Test requirements.

To begin, click the Apply Now button.  This will take you to The Washington Center’s Program Application Portal login page.  If you have not yet registered, click “Create an Account.” Once you are in the program application portal, click the Apply Now tab and select William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship.

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Clarke DS Fellowship Timeline

Below is a general timeline for the 2024 cohort of the Clarke DS Fellowship program.

  • July 18 – October 1, 2023 (11:59 pm ET): Applications accepted
  • October 2023:  Notifications of finalist selections are sent via email
  • October/November 2023: Finalists complete Physical Readiness Test (PRT)
  • December 2023: Final interviews and selection
  • May or June 2024: In-person Orientation for the Clarke DS Fellowship Program
  • Summer 2024:  Domestic Practicum (10 weeks) and Professional Development Series
  • September 2024: First year of your graduate program begins
  • June-August 2025: Overseas Practicum (10 weeks)
  • September 2025: Second year of your graduate program begins
  • Spring 2026:  Re-take the Physical Readiness Test (PRT)
  • May 2026: Graduate with your master’s degree
  • Post-graduation 2026: 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.