INTRODUCTION

The U.S. Foreign Affairs Information Technology (FAIT) Fellowship is a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, administered by the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars (TWC). It is designed to attract and prepare outstanding students for careers in the Foreign Service Information Management Specialists (IMS) career track, which focuses on the management of information technology systems, networks, and resources at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world.
The main goal of the FAIT Fellowship is to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the Information Management Specialist career track of the U.S. Foreign Service.

ELIGIBILITY

The program is open to U.S. citizens who are enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program related to Information Technology or a related field.
Applicants must be in their sophomore year or higher at the time of application.

FUNDS

  • Financial Support: Fellows receive up to $37,500 annually for tuition, room, board, books, and other education-related expenses.
  • Internships: Fellows participate in two paid internships with the U.S. Department of State (one in Washington, D.C. and one overseas at a U.S. embassy or consulate).
  • Mentorship: Fellows receive mentorship from an experienced Foreign Service IMS throughout the program.
  • Guaranteed Employment: Upon successful completion of the program and the IMS entry requirements, fellows are appointed as Foreign Service IMS Officers.

HOW TO APPLY

The application process typically involves submitting a comprehensive application form, including

  • Academic transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation, and
  • A personal statement.
  • There are typically multiple stages of interviews and assessments.
  1. Program Duration: The FAIT Fellowship is designed as a two-year program, which includes two internships with the Department of State.
  2. Service Commitment: After successfully completing the program and receiving the necessary clearances and certifications, fellows commit to a minimum of five years of service as an IMS with the U.S. Department of State.
  3. Career Prospects: Upon completion of the program, fellows become Foreign Service Information Management Specialists, responsible for managing information technology programs and resources at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.
  4. Impact: The FAIT Fellowship program aims to build a diverse and talented pool of IMS professionals to meet the evolving technological needs of U.S. diplomacy.

To apply, faitfellowship for more information.