Apply for the USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship 2025: a prestigious program offering financial support, internships, and a career in international development.
About
Applications are now open for the USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship Program 2025. This fellowship is looking for talented people who want to build careers in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
If you’re passionate about solving global issues like climate change, health crises, conflicts, and poverty, this program is for you. The Payne Fellowship provides up to $104,000 over two years for graduate school, internships, and professional development. It’s a unique chance to join the USAID Foreign Service and make a real difference in the world.
Program Overview
The USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship Program 2025 is a distinguished and competitive fellowship aimed at individuals dedicated to international development. This program provides substantial support for graduate studies and professional growth, preparing participants for significant careers in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
Details
- Deadline: October 24, 2025
- Fellowships for Graduate Studies: The Payne Fellowship Program offers up to 30 fellowships, each valued at up to $52,000 annually for two years. The award includes:
- Tuition and Mandatory Fees: Up to $24,000 per year for tuition and mandatory fees for completing a two-year master’s degree at a U.S. institution.
- Stipend: An $18,000 annual stipend to cover room, board, books, and other education-related costs.
- Summer Placements: Up to $10,000 per year for stipends, housing, transportation, and other expenses for summer internships.
Fellows are expected to complete a degree in international development or a related field from a U.S. graduate or professional school approved by the Payne Program. Successful completion of the program and meeting USAID Foreign Service entry requirements will lead to an appointment as a Foreign Service Officer with USAID.
- Orientation: Selected Payne Fellows will attend an orientation at Howard University in May, shortly after their selection. This orientation is designed to introduce the Fellows to the fellowship’s various aspects and to enhance their skills and understanding of international development careers. It also offers valuable networking opportunities with peers and professionals in the field.
- Two Summer Placements: The program includes two internships for practical experience:
- Washington, DC Internship: The first internship, focused on international issues, takes place in Washington, DC, during the summer after selection and before the first year of graduate study. This opportunity provides insights into policymaking and allows fellows to work closely with experts.
- Overseas Internship: The second internship occurs overseas at a USAID Mission during the summer between the first and second years of graduate study. This placement offers hands-on experience in a developing country, applying academic learning to real-world challenges. Both internships include stipends, housing, and transportation.
- Mentoring: Fellows will receive continuous mentoring throughout the fellowship and during the early stages of their USAID employment. This mentorship supports professional development and helps fellows navigate their careers in international development.
- Curriculum: Fellows must pursue graduate degrees in fields related to international affairs or other relevant subjects such as development, economics, history, political science, public administration, communications, public policy, business administration, foreign languages, agriculture, environmental sciences, or urban planning. Law degrees are not eligible. Applicants must apply to two-year graduate programs at U.S. universities concurrently with their Payne Program application.
- Employment/Contractual Obligations: Fellows who complete the Payne Program and meet USAID Foreign Service entry requirements will be appointed as USAID Foreign Service Officers. Each Fellow must serve a minimum of five years as a USAID Foreign Service Officer. Failure to fulfill this service obligation may result in a reimbursement requirement.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Payne Fellowship, applicants must:
- Citizenship: Be U.S. citizens.
- Education: Be seeking admission to a two-year graduate program at a U.S. university starting in fall 2025. Applicants can be in their senior undergraduate year, graduating by May 2025, or already college graduates.
- GPA: Have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale at the time of application.
Benefits
The Payne Fellowship provides extensive benefits including:
- Tuition and Fees: Up to $24,000 annually for graduate school tuition and mandatory fees.
- Stipend: An $18,000 stipend per academic year for living expenses such as room, board, and books.
- Summer Placement Support: Up to $10,000 per year to cover stipends, housing, transportation, and related costs for summer internships.
- Professional Development: Continuous mentoring and career guidance throughout the fellowship and early employment with USAID.
- Employment: A guaranteed appointment as a USAID Foreign Service Officer upon successful completion of the program and entry requirements, offering a secure and impactful career path.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Completed application form
- Personal statement
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- GRE scores (if required by the graduate program)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
How to Apply
Applications and required documents should be submitted electronically. If there are issues with electronic submission, applicants should contact program staff at paynefellows@howard.edu for assistance. It is strongly encouraged to submit all documents electronically for a smooth application process.
For more information, visit the USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship website.
Conclusion
The USAID Donald M. Payne Fellowship Program 2025 offers a unique and prestigious opportunity for those passionate about international development. With its comprehensive financial support, professional development opportunities, and guaranteed employment with USAID, this fellowship is an excellent gateway to a fulfilling career with global impact. Don’t miss this chance to embark on a transformative journey. Apply today and start your path toward a rewarding career in international development.
FAQs
What is a USAID fellowship?
A USAID fellowship supports individuals pursuing careers in international development by offering financial aid for graduate studies, internships, and professional development, along with a path to employment with USAID.
How competitive is the Payne Fellowship?
The Payne Fellowship is highly competitive, with up to 30 fellowships awarded annually. It attracts top candidates who excel academically and demonstrate a strong commitment to international development and public service.
What are the benefits of the Payne Fellowship?
The Payne Fellowship provides up to $52,000 annually for tuition, living expenses, and summer internships. It includes professional mentoring and guarantees a career as a USAID Foreign Service Officer upon successful completion.
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