Apply for the Knauss Fellowship 2026: Fully Funded Ocean Policy Program in the USA

The Knauss Fellowship is a prestigious, one-year program that offers graduate students the opportunity to apply their academic training to real-world policy challenges related to oceans, coasts, and the Great Lakes. Hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through its Sea Grant program, this fellowship places participants in high-impact roles within the U.S. federal government.

Fellows gain hands-on experience in policy-making while contributing scientific knowledge, innovation, and fresh perspectives to national decision-making processes. In return, they develop practical skills, expand their professional networks, and prepare for leadership careers at the intersection of science and public policy.

Fellowship Overview

The Knauss Fellowship provides a unique pathway from academia to government, allowing fellows to engage directly with policy development and implementation.

Duration

One year (June 2027 – May 2028)

Location

Washington, D.C. metropolitan area

Placement Opportunities

Fellows are placed in:

• Federal executive branch offices
• Legislative branch offices (e.g., Congress)

Areas of Work

Participants contribute to a wide range of policy-related activities, including:

• Policy analysis and development
• Science communication
• Program evaluation
• Stakeholder engagement
• Environmental and marine resource management

Application Details

• Application Status: Open
• Deadline: June 3, 2026
• Application Process:
  Applicants must apply through their state Sea Grant program, which reviews submissions and nominates candidates for the national competition.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Knauss Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s, PhD, or JD) at an accredited university in the United States or its territories at the time of application
• Demonstrate a strong interest in public service and marine or coastal policy
• Be a U.S. citizen, national, or dual citizen

Fellowship Impact and Reach

The Knauss Fellowship has a long-standing track record of developing future leaders in marine policy and public service:

• 47 years of program success
• 1,762 fellows placed in government roles
• 69 host offices across the U.S. government (average between 2022–2025)

This extensive reach highlights the fellowship’s role in shaping policy professionals and advancing science-informed decision-making.

Opportunities for Different Participants

Prospective Fellows

Graduate students interested in marine and environmental policy can apply through their state Sea Grant programs and compete for national placement.

Current Fellows & Alumni

Participants gain access to essential career resources and a strong alumni network that supports long-term professional growth.

Prospective Hosts

Government offices interested in hosting fellows in future cycles (e.g., 2027) will have opportunities to participate and benefit from the program’s talent pool.

Recent Knauss Fellowship Updates

Recent announcements from the Sea Grant program highlight the continued growth and competitiveness of the fellowship:

• 2026: Announcement of the latest fellowship cohorts selected for national programs
• 2024–2025: Finalists and fellows recognized for their contributions to marine policy and leadership development

These updates reflect the program’s ongoing commitment to bridging science and policy through practical, government-based experience.

Why Apply for the Knauss Fellowship?

The Knauss Fellowship stands out as a premier opportunity for graduate students seeking careers in environmental policy and public service. It offers:

• Direct exposure to federal policy-making
• Hands-on experience in executive and legislative offices
• Opportunities to influence real-world environmental decisions
• A strong national professional network
• Career advancement in science-policy leadership

How to Apply

To begin your application:

1. Locate your state Sea Grant program
2. Review the Notice of Funding Opportunity
3. Submit your application through your state program before the deadline

The Knauss Fellowship is more than a fellowship—it is a career-launching platform for future leaders committed to shaping policies that protect and sustain marine and coastal ecosystems.

Discover more similar opportunities here.