The Institute for AI Policy and Strategy (IAPS), a nonprofit think tank based in Washington D.C., has opened applications for the Summer AI Policy Fellowship 2026, a fully funded three-month program designed for professionals looking to build careers in artificial intelligence policy.

International experts working on AI policy and governance – symbolic image for the IAPS AI Policy Fellowship 2026

Image source: Envato

Key Program Details

Duration: June 1 – August 21, 2026
Location: Washington D.C. or remote. All participants are required to attend a two-week residency in Washington (June 1–12).

Financial Support:

  • Senior Fellows: $22,000
  • Fellows: $15,000
    In addition to the stipend, participants receive healthcare benefits and a professional development budget.
AI Usage Notice: In preparing this article, AI tools were used with careful human oversight and editing. We believe in transparency regarding the use of AI in our work.
AI Usage Notice: In preparing this article, AI tools were used with careful human oversight and editing. We believe in transparency regarding the use of AI in our work.

What Does the Program Include?

Each participant is paired with a mentor – an experienced expert from the IAPS team or their partner network. During the program, Fellows work on concrete projects that influence national and global AI policy, including:

  • Writing policy reports and memos
  • Briefing government officials
  • Organizing conferences and roundtables
  • Publishing expert articles on current AI regulation issues

Key focus areas include national security and AI, export controls, AI system evaluations, geopolitics of artificial intelligence, and regulation in the U.S., EU, and UK.

Who Can Apply?

IAPS accepts candidates with diverse professional backgrounds – from industry, government, think tanks, and academia. No technical expertise or prior policy experience is required.

The program is open to candidates at various seniority levels – from students to professionals with decades of experience.

Selection Process

Selection takes place in three stages:

  • Online application form
  • Three-hour written task and pre-recorded interview (30 minutes)
  • Live interview with an IAPS team member (60 minutes)
  • Final results are expected by the end of April.

Webinar for Interested Applicants

IAPS is hosting an informational webinar on January 21 at 10:00 AM PT / 6:00 PM GMT, where the team will present program details and former participants will share their experiences.

Application deadline: February 2, 2026 at 23:59 Pacific Time
More information and applications: Link

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