Junior Summer Institute

The PPIA Fellowship is a seven-week summer program that helps rising college juniors prepare for graduate school and careers in public service. Since 1980, it’s supported future leaders in government, nonprofits, public policy, and international organizations. As a Fellow, you’ll build the skills, confidence, and connections to pursue a Master’s or joint degree in public policy, public administration, international affairs, or a related field.  

We welcome students from all backgrounds who are passionate about public service, inclusive leadership, and creating positive change through policy.

Eligibility  

• Current undergraduate juniors working toward their first bachelor’s degree at a U.S.-based college or university (graduating between December 2026 and August 2027).
• U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, and DACA recipients may apply to all Junior Summer Institute sites.
• International students enrolled at U.S. institutions may apply to Princeton only.

For the PPIA Junior Summer Institute, applications are submitted through PPIA’s central portal, but each host school independently reviews and evaluates applicants using its own admissions criteria.

We focus on juniors so that, after completing the Junior Summer Institute, you’ll still have your senior year to build on what you’ve learned—by taking advanced or relevant courses that strengthen your graduate school applications. 

The following schools will host the Junior Summer Institute on these dates:

• Harvard Program: June 14 – July 31, 2026
• Princeton Program: June 8 – July 24, 2026
• University of Michigan Program: June 7 – July 25, 2026

You’ll get your decision by Friday, January 30, 2026.  

If you’re on the waitlist, you’ll hear an update by Friday, February 13, 2026. 

Tell us your story, experiences, and goals by sharing:  

Educational and financial information — Including extracurricular and work experiences  

Income verification — FAFSA or official financial aid letter  

Your resume — Highlighting academic and professional experiences  

All college-level transcripts — From every institution attended 

Junior Summer Institute site preferences — Rank your top choices; most admitted students match with one of their top three  

Eligibility note — International and undocumented students studying at U.S. colleges are welcome to apply (international students may only apply to Princeton) 

Ask someone who knows your potential to support your application:  

Provide contact details — Share the name and information of one person who can speak to your qualifications  

Choose the right person — Ideally someone familiar with your public service involvement or career goals (such as a supervisor from an internship, part-time job, or volunteer role)  

We’ll reach out directly — After you submit their information, we’ll contact your recommender with questions about your candidacy  

Plan ahead — Make sure your recommender is ready to respond before the November 1 deadline  

Show us who you are and the impact you want to make.  

Two required essays (500 words each) are required:  

Essay 1 — Your Path and Potential  

Reflect on how your lived experiences, academic interests, and leadership goals align with PPIA’s mission to expand access, foster inclusive leadership, and strengthen pathways into public service.  

Share the impact you hope to make as a future public service leader.  

Essay 2 — Your Leadership in Action  

Describe experiences that shaped your perspective and values, and how they influence the kind of leader you aspire to be.  

Explain how you’ll use these lessons to build trust, strengthen dialogue, and create meaningful impact in your community.  

Optional Essay  

Share any personal or financial circumstances you feel are important for the selection committee to know.