2027 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program Administration Grant

Background & Goal:

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Human Resources Outreach, Fellowships, and Internships Division (HR/OFI) announces an open competition for an eligible organization to manage programmatic, financial, and administrative operations for the 2027 Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship Program. Established in 1992, the Pickering Fellowship attracts outstanding students—particularly those with financial need—for Foreign Service Officer careers. Administered via a Cooperative Agreement, this 32-month project (starting ~January 2027) aims to cultivate premier diplomatic talent, ensuring timely commissioning into generalist tracks pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2719 and 22 U.S.C. 3901 et seq.

Problem Statement:

Fellows face complex operational, financial, and logistical demands across graduate studies, domestic internships in Washington, D.C., and overseas assignments at U.S. Embassies. Dedicated administrative oversight is essential to execute tuition disbursements, secure housing, navigate security/medical clearances, and eliminate friction that could impede academic success or delay Foreign Service commissioning.

Key Objectives & Outcomes:

Financial & Academic…