Applications are now open for the U.S. Google Public Policy Fellowship Summer 2026, a prestigious opportunity for students interested in technology policy, internet governance, artificial intelligence regulation, privacy, and digital rights.

The fellowship places selected students at leading public interest organizations and policy think tanks in Washington, D.C., where they will work on real-world policy issues shaping the future of technology.

Fellows will gain hands-on experience in policy research, advocacy, and technology governance, while contributing to national conversations about digital innovation and regulation.

Application Deadline: April 9, 2026 (12:00 PM ET)

About the Google Public Policy Fellowship

The Google Public Policy Fellowship provides students with an opportunity to work on public policy challenges related to the internet and emerging technologies.

Selected fellows will spend the summer working with experts at major policy organizations where they will contribute to research and discussions on issues such as:

• Artificial intelligence governance and regulation

• Data privacy and cybersecurity

• Internet freedom and digital rights

• Online speech and content moderation

• Broadband access and digital equity

• Innovation and competition policy in the technology sector

Each fellow is assigned a mentor at their host organization and works closely with senior policy staff throughout the fellowship.

Fellowship Benefits

Participants in the Google Public Policy Fellowship 2026 receive financial support and professional development opportunities, including:

• $12,000 stipend for full-time fellows (40 hours per week)

• $6,000 stipend for part-time fellows (20 hours per week)

• Mentorship from leading policy experts and researchers

• Hands-on experience working on technology policy issues

• Opportunities to attend policy discussions, government meetings, and conferences

• Networking opportunities with policymakers, think tanks, and advocacy organizations

Payments are coordinated by host organizations and may depend on completion of required documentation and satisfactory performance.

Fellowship Duration

The fellowship will run from June to August 2026.

Participants are expected to work either:

• Full-time: 40 hours per week

• Part-time: 20 hours per week

Most fellows are encouraged to participate in person in Washington, D.C., although some host organizations may allow remote work.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2026

• Be enrolled in or accepted into an accredited university or college program

• Remain enrolled in a degree program through August 30, 2026

• Be eligible and authorized to work in the United States

• Demonstrate interest in technology policy, internet governance, or digital innovation

Students from all academic disciplines are encouraged to apply.

Strong candidates typically demonstrate:

• Excellent research and writing skills

• Strong academic performance

• Experience in extracurricular, professional, or volunteer activities

• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Previous Google Public Policy Fellows are not eligible to apply again.

Fellowship Responsibilities

During the fellowship, participants will support the work of their host organizations through activities such as:

• Conducting policy research and analysis on technology-related issues

• Drafting policy reports, white papers, and blog articles

• Attending government and industry meetings

• Participating in policy advocacy initiatives

• Supporting communications and outreach related to technology policy

This experience allows fellows to explore career paths in public policy, technology governance, and digital regulation.

Host Organizations for Summer 2026

Google Public Policy Fellows will be placed with leading policy institutions and advocacy organizations in Washington, D.C., including:

• Asian American Justice Center (AAJC)

• The Cato Institute

• Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT)

• Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA)

• Chamber of Progress

• Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI)

• Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA)

• Connected Commerce Council (3C)

• Engine Advocacy

• Foundation for American Innovation (FAI)

• Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF)

• LGBT Tech

• National Taxpayers Union Foundation (NTUF)

• NetChoice

• Open Technology Institute (New America)

• Progressive Policy Institute (PPI)

• Public Knowledge

• R Street Institute

• Technology Policy Institute (TPI)

• TechFreedom

• TechNet

These organizations work on critical issues related to technology innovation, internet regulation, digital rights, and artificial intelligence governance.

Application Process

The fellowship application includes the following sections:

• Personal Information

• Current Education

• References

• Resume upload

• Organization preferences

• Personal statement

• Final submission

Important notes for applicants:

• Reference contact information is required, but reference letters are not mandatory.

• Host organizations may contact references during the selection process.

• Applicants may apply to up to two host organizations.

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is recommended.

• To apply to become a Summer 2026 Google Public Policy Fellow, click here.

Key Dates

Application Deadline: April 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET

Fellowship Period: June – August 2026

How to Apply

Students interested in shaping policy around artificial intelligence, digital rights, internet governance, and technology innovation are encouraged to apply.

Applications must be submitted before the deadline through the official fellowship application portal.

• To apply to become a Summer 2026 Google Public Policy Fellow, click here.
• Find out more about Host Organizations here
• FAQ here