Are you passionate about public service, international development, diplomacy, human rights, climate action, national security, social justice, refugee issues, or global policy? Do you aspire to build a meaningful career that contributes to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges?
The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) is offering an exceptional opportunity for future and current public service leaders through its prestigious Public Service Fellows Scholarship Program and Public Service Scholars Scholarship Program. These highly competitive scholarships support outstanding students pursuing graduate studies in international relations and public policy at one of the world’s leading institutions for global affairs.
The programs provide substantial tuition support, leadership development opportunities, exclusive networking events, and direct engagement with public service practitioners and policymakers. Whether you are an early-career professional seeking a fully funded master’s degree or a mid-career professional looking to strengthen your policy expertise, these scholarships can help accelerate your impact and career growth.
About Johns Hopkins SAIS
The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) is part of Johns Hopkins University, America’s first research university, established in 1876.
Located in Washington, DC, SAIS is globally recognized for excellence in:
- International Relations
- Public Policy
- Diplomacy
- International Economics
- Security Studies
- Development Studies
- Global Governance
Its strategic location in the United States capital provides students with direct access to policymakers, diplomats, international organizations, think tanks, and development institutions.
What Are the Public Service Fellows and Scholars Programs?
The Public Service Fellows and Scholars Programs were created to support talented individuals dedicated to serving society through careers in public policy, government, nonprofit leadership, international development, diplomacy, and social impact.
The programs aim to:
- Promote leadership in public service.
- Support talented students from diverse backgrounds.
- Encourage innovative approaches to policy challenges.
- Foster engagement with public service practitioners.
- Build a community of future changemakers.
Johns Hopkins SAIS specifically seeks applicants who are:
- Culturally aware.
- Adaptable.
- Strategic thinkers.
- Effective problem-solvers.
- Committed to public service.
The programs welcome individuals interested in fields such as:
- Human Rights
- Diplomacy
- National Security
- International Development
- Climate Change
- Refugee Issues
- Gender Diversity
- Social Justice
- Public Policy
Public Service Fellows Scholarship Program
Overview
The Public Service Fellows Scholarship Program is designed for highly talented graduate students pursuing the Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) at the Johns Hopkins SAIS Washington, DC campus.
The program supports individuals who aspire to build careers dedicated to public service and global leadership.
Public Service Fellows Scholarship Benefits
Selected Fellows receive:
1. Full Tuition Scholarship
Recipients receive:
- 100% tuition coverage during the first year.
- Renewal for the second year upon meeting academic requirements.
- Funding for up to four semesters.
2. Exclusive Professional Programming
Participants gain access to:
- Leadership lectures.
- Policy seminars.
- Public service workshops.
- Special networking events.
3. Access to Influential Leaders
Fellows engage directly with:
- Policy experts.
- Public sector leaders.
- Alumni.
- Government officials.
- International practitioners.
4. Career Development Support
The Office of Global Careers provides:
- Career coaching.
- Public service career guidance.
- Professional networking opportunities.
- Internship and employment support.
5. Community and Volunteer Engagement
Participants join social and volunteer activities designed to build:
- Leadership skills.
- Teamwork.
- Civic engagement.
- Professional relationships.
Public Service Fellows Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of any country.
- Gain admission to the Master of Arts in International Relations (MAIR) program in Washington, DC.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Show academic excellence.
- Demonstrate commitment to public service through professional experience or academic work.
Special consideration is given to applicants who demonstrate financial need.
Public Service Fellows Program Requirements
Recipients must:
- Remain full-time MAIR students.
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher.
- Participate in at least one admissions recruitment activity each semester.
- Complete semester and final program surveys.
- Submit the Office of Global Careers Employment Outcomes Survey before graduation.
Public Service Fellows Application Process
Applicants must:
- Apply for admission to the MAIR program.
- Indicate interest in institutional financial aid.
- Indicate interest in a Public Service Award.
- Submit:
- Financial Aid Application.
- Scholarship Essay.
- U.S. citizens and permanent residents must complete the FAFSA using school code E00474.
Public Service Scholars Scholarship Program
Overview
The Public Service Scholars Scholarship Program is intended for experienced mid-career professionals pursuing the Master of International Public Policy (MIPP).
Applicants should have prior experience in public service and intend to continue serving communities and institutions after graduation.
The scholarship is available only to Fall applicants.
Public Service Scholars Benefits
Selected Scholars receive:
1. Significant Tuition Support
Recipients receive:
- Up to 50% tuition scholarship.
2. Exclusive Leadership Programming
Participants gain access to:
- Public policy seminars.
- Leadership workshops.
- Professional networking events.
- Public service discussions.
3. Career Advancement Opportunities
Participants receive:
- Guidance from the Office of Global Careers.
- Access to influential networks.
- Mentorship opportunities.
- Career development support.
4. Community Building Activities
Scholars participate in:
- Volunteer initiatives.
- Networking events.
- Cohort activities.
Public Service Scholars Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of any country.
- Be admitted to the MIPP program at the Washington, DC campus.
- Be enrolled full-time or part-time (minimum of two courses per semester).
- Demonstrate leadership and professional achievement.
- Show commitment to public service.
Special consideration is also given to applicants with demonstrated financial need.
Public Service Scholars Requirements
Recipients must:
- Begin studies during the Fall semester.
- Maintain a GPA of 3.4 or higher.
- Participate in recruitment activities or mentor Public Service Fellows.
- Complete required surveys.
- Submit employment outcome reports before graduation.
Why You Should Apply
This scholarship program offers far more than tuition support.
Participants gain:
- Access to one of the world’s leading international affairs schools.
- Study opportunities in Washington, DC.
- Connections with global leaders and policymakers.
- Leadership development experiences.
- Career acceleration opportunities.
- Public service-focused mentorship.
- Exposure to real-world policy challenges.
Graduates are positioned for impactful careers in:
- Government
- International Organizations
- NGOs
- Public Policy Institutions
- Human Rights Organizations
- Development Agencies
- Think Tanks
- Diplomatic Services
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Johns Hopkins SAIS strongly values diversity and welcomes applicants from:
- Different socioeconomic backgrounds.
- First-generation students.
- Historically underrepresented groups.
- Diverse cultures and nationalities.
- All genders and identities.
The institution believes diverse experiences strengthen public service leadership and policymaking.
Information Sessions
Prospective applicants are encouraged to attend Public Service Information Sessions hosted by admissions representatives and current students.
These sessions provide insights into:
- Academic programs.
- Student life.
- Scholarship opportunities.
- Career pathways.
- Financial aid options.
Visit HERE to learn more about the Johns Hopkins SAIS Public Service Fellows & Scholars Scholarships 2026–2027.
Conclusion
The Johns Hopkins SAIS Public Service Fellows and Public Service Scholars Scholarships represent a remarkable opportunity for individuals committed to creating meaningful change through public service. With tuition support of up to 100%, access to world-class education in Washington, DC, exclusive leadership programming, career development support, and a global network of policymakers and practitioners, these programs are designed to empower the next generation of leaders tackling today’s most complex global challenges. If you are passionate about diplomacy, human rights, development, public policy, climate action, or social justice, this scholarship could be the catalyst that transforms your career and amplifies your impact on the world.
Discover more global Scholarship and Fellowship opportunities on OFY.
