U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program

Background
The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program provides an opportunity for Master’s degree students in the fields of International Affairs, International Relations, International Studies, Economics, Business, Trade, Public Administration, or Public Policy to increase their level of knowledge and awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service (FCS) and its vital role in promoting American exports and facilitating trade and commerce around the world. The program also provides a pathway to potential employment with the Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, Global Markets, and particularly encourages students from underserved communities to apply.

Grant Details
The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program was established under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 (Public Law No. 117-328) and particularly encourages students from underserved communities, including members of minority groups, to apply. The Fellowship is designed to heighten the student’s awareness of the Foreign Commercial Service through a summer enrichment program and a virtual Professional Development and Networking component. The award periods are up to 15 months for a student enrolled in an eligible Master's degree program. Subject to appropriations, approximately $1,000,000 may be available for awards under this program during fiscal year (FY) 2024. The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship provides one year support up to $35,000 per student to cover travel related expenses, housing, meals and necessary materials and supplies.

Eligibility Requirements
Only individuals who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals and are enrolled in a U.S. accredited graduate institution to pursue a Master’s degree in the fields of International Affairs, International Relations, International Studies, Economics, Business, Trade, Public Administration, or Public Policy are eligible for an award under this Fellowship program. Applicants must have either a cumulative 3.30 grade point average (GPA) in their graduate program or have earned a cumulative 3.30 grade point average from undergraduate studies to be eligible to apply.

Period of Performance
The award periods are up to 15 months for a student enrolled in an eligible Master's degree program.
The anticipated start date is June 2024.

Grant Value
The U.S. and Foreign Commercial Service Pilot Fellowship Program may provide, subject to appropriations,
up to $35,000 of support per person for up to an eight-week fellowship program in an overseas U.S. diplomatic mission.