Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship 2026 , USA (Fully Funded)
The Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship is a prestigious fully funded postdoctoral fellowship in the USA designed for democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and scholars from around the world. Hosted by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), this international fellowship provides a unique opportunity to conduct independent research on democratic development while living and working in Washington, D.C.
If you are seeking a fully funded fellowship in the USA for international applicants, the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship is one of the most competitive and rewarding options available.
About the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship
The Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship is a federally funded international exchange program that allows selected fellows to spend five months in residence at the International Forum for Democratic Studies. Fellows research political, social, economic, legal, or cultural aspects of democracy in a specific country or region while engaging with global experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders.
The program is open to both practitioners and scholars, making it suitable for professionals as well as postdoctoral researchers with strong academic backgrounds.
Degree Level
- Postdoctoral / Non-degree
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
The Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship is fully funded and includes:
Monthly stipend covering housing, food, local transportation, and living expenses
Short-term furnished apartment allowance
Round-trip airfare to and from Washington, D.C.
Basic health insurance for the fellowship period
Fully equipped office space at NED
Limited funding for professional travel within the United States
Access to seminars, policy discussions, and networking opportunities
Note: Fellows bringing family members must cover the additional costs for their dependents.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to applicants of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
General Requirements
Demonstrate English language proficiency
Be available for full-time, in-residence participation in Washington, D.C.
Propose a research project related to democratic development
Applicants from all countries worldwide are eligible
Practitioner Track
Be a mid-career professional
Have substantial experience promoting democracy or human rights
Work in fields such as journalism, civil society, activism, or public policy
Scholarly Track
Hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree
Have a strong publication record
Submit a detailed and well-developed research proposal
Visa Requirements
Non-U.S. citizens must obtain a J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa
Applicants must not have participated in a J-1 Research Scholar program within the last 24 months
Fellows may be subject to the two-year home-country residency requirement after completion
Application Procedure
Follow these steps to apply:
Create an account on the online application portal
Complete the application form with personal details
Submit a project proposal (practitioner or scholarly track)
Upload your CV/Resume and biography
Arrange letters of recommendation
Submit all materials in English
Why Apply for the Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship?
One of the top fully funded fellowships in the USA
Ideal for postdoctoral scholars and democracy practitioners
No tuition fees or application fees
Access to global policy networks in Washington, D.C.
Strong career impact in academia, policy, journalism, and civil society
Official Website
For complete details and to apply, visit theofficial Reagan-Fascell Democracy Fellowship website.
