Apply Now: Ian Axford Fellowship 2027 in Public Policy

The Ian Axford Fellowship in Public Policy 2027 is a prestigious, fully funded international fellowship designed for mid-career professionals from the United States. Hosted in Wellington, this fellowship offers a unique opportunity to spend 3 to 5 months engaging with public policy in New Zealand while contributing to meaningful policy discussions and research.

Delivered through the Ian Axford Fellowships in Public Policy, the program aims to strengthen mutual understanding between the United States and New Zealand by supporting professionals who can bridge ideas, experiences, and policy approaches across both countries.

About the Opportunity

The Ian Axford Fellowship is designed for professionals who are actively working in public policy or related fields and are interested in gaining international experience. Fellows are placed within New Zealand government agencies and work on policy-focused research projects that address real-world challenges.

The fellowship begins with an orientation program in February in Wellington, where fellows are introduced to New Zealand’s policy landscape and institutional environment. During their time in the country, fellows conduct in-depth research, collaborate with local experts, and engage with policymakers.

A central component of the fellowship is the development of a policy report, which is later published and shared with relevant stakeholders. Fellows are also expected to present their findings through seminars and public engagements, contributing to broader policy discussions.

The program is not limited to a specific policy area. Applicants are encouraged to propose projects aligned with New Zealand’s current policy priorities, but innovative and relevant ideas from other fields are also welcome.

Why This Opportunity Matters

In an increasingly interconnected world, public policy challenges often require global perspectives and collaboration. The Ian Axford Fellowship plays a critical role in fostering this exchange by bringing US professionals into New Zealand’s policy environment.

New Zealand is widely recognized for its innovative approaches to governance, social policy, and public sector management. By immersing fellows in this context, the program enables them to explore alternative approaches, compare systems, and identify transferable lessons.

At the same time, fellows contribute their own expertise and perspectives, creating a two-way exchange of knowledge. This not only strengthens bilateral relationships but also enriches policy development in both countries.

Want to discover more fellowships, scholarships, internships, and global programs like this one? Visit Opportunities for Youth to explore more opportunities.

What You’ll Gain

The Ian Axford Fellowship offers a combination of financial support, professional development, and international exposure:

• Round-trip airfare between the United States and New Zealand
• Monthly living allowance depending on employment status
• Additional financial support for fellows with dependents
• Opportunity to work closely with New Zealand government agencies
• Experience conducting international policy research
• Publication of a policy report and opportunities for public engagement
• Expanded global network in public policy and governance

This fellowship provides a rare chance to step outside your usual work environment and gain insights that can directly inform your work back in the United States.

Eligibility

The fellowship is specifically designed for mid-career professionals from the United States. To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be a US citizen
• Have at least five years of professional experience
• Be actively working in the public, private, or non-profit sector
• Demonstrate leadership potential and the ability to influence policy
• Show a strong interest in learning from New Zealand’s policy environment
• Be able to apply lessons learned to their work in the United States

Applicants should also be able to secure support from their employer, including confirmation of whether they will receive full, partial, or no paid leave during the fellowship.

Application Process and Deadline

Applicants must complete an online application and submit all required materials before the deadline. A strong application should clearly demonstrate how the proposed project will contribute to public policy in both New Zealand and the United States.

The application requires:

• Completed application form
• Supporting documents outlining your experience and proposed project
• A letter from your employer confirming support and leave status
• Three references submitted separately

Applications are carefully reviewed, and selected candidates are chosen based on the quality, relevance, and potential impact of their proposed work.

Deadline: 10:00 AM (NZT), Tuesday, 21 April 2026

To learn more and apply, visit the official Ian Axford Fellowship website.

Explore More Opportunities for Youth

Want to discover more fellowships, scholarships, internships, and global programs like this one? Visit Opportunities for Youth to explore more opportunities.