The University of Chicago’s International Innovation Corps (IIC) is now accepting applications for its highly competitive 2025–2026 Fellowship Program for Project Associates in India. This is a full-time, 12-month fellowship offering a unique opportunity to work on high-impact development projects across India in collaboration with government bodies and nonprofit organizations.
Who Can Apply?
The IIC Fellowship is designed for early-career professionals who are eager to drive meaningful change. You are eligible if:
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You are under 30 years old as of April 1, 2025.
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You hold a valid work permit in India.
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You have completed an undergraduate degree in any discipline.
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You have at least 3 years of full-time work experience, OR
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You have a master’s degree and at least 2 years of work experience.
The fellowship is open to candidates from all academic and professional backgrounds. Previous experience in the development or policy sector is not a requirement—what matters most is your critical thinking, creativity, collaborative mindset, and passion for impact.
Application Timeline
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Applications Open: January 24, 2025
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Applications Close: February 16, 2025
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Interviews: Rolling basis (apply early!)
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Final Decisions: March 15, 2025
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Fellowship Commencement: Mid-April 2025
The Application Process
To apply, candidates must complete an online application that includes:
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An updated CV
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Responses to short-essay questions
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A well-reasoned Innovation Proposal
Shortlisted candidates will undergo at least two rounds of interviews. Due to the competitive nature of the fellowship, individual feedback may not be provided to all applicants.
What is the Innovation Proposal?
The Innovation Proposal is your chance to showcase your problem-solving skills and creativity. It should:
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Identify a social challenge
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Analyze causes and potential solutions
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Justify your chosen approach
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Propose an implementation plan
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Address limitations and feasibility
The emphasis is on structured, thoughtful analysis—not necessarily groundbreaking originality.
About the Fellowship
The IIC Fellowship runs from April 2025 to April 2026. Fellows are assigned to project teams based on their skills, experience, and the needs of the host organizations. Projects span various states and sectors across India and tackle real-world challenges in governance, education, health, and more.
Project Associates receive:
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A fixed stipend of INR 12,70,000 annually
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Intensive training in leadership, policy, and project management
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Mentorship and support from experienced professionals
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Opportunities for collaboration with the University of Chicago faculty and alumni
The fellowship is full-time and immersive. Fellows are expected to commit fully to their assigned projects and are not permitted to take on additional work or academic commitments during the fellowship period.
Post-Fellowship Outcomes
After completing the program, IIC alumni go on to pursue prestigious postgraduate degrees or assume leadership roles in the development, business, or policy sectors. Alumni have been accepted into top institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Columbia, Oxford, ISB, and ISPP.
Why Apply?
Whether you’re looking to make a difference on the ground, grow your network, or gain experience working at the intersection of policy and implementation, the IIC Fellowship provides unmatched exposure, responsibility, and mentorship. It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, contribute to meaningful change, and join a vibrant community of changemakers.
Apply now and become part of the IIC 2025–2026 cohort.
For more information and FAQs, visit the official IIC website or email: iic@uchicago.edu.
For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.
