About the Institute of Current World Affairs
The Institute of Current World Affairs advances American understanding of international cultures and affairs by sending young professionals abroad on two-year independent writing fellowships to study countries, regions and globally important issues. Our alumni have become some of this country’s leading journalists, scholars, diplomats, activists and businesspeople. ICWA nurtures the kind of deep understanding future generations will need to ensure America’s role in the world is informed by wisdom, foresight and compassion.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 36 years old at the time of submitting the initial letter of interest.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is not required; however, candidates must show strong and credible ties to U.S. society.
- Education: Applicants must have completed their formal education and cannot be currently enrolled undergraduate students.
- Language Proficiency: Sufficient language skills to carry out the proposed project are expected.
- English Proficiency: Excellent written and spoken English-language skills are required.
- Project Scope: Proposed projects should aim to enrich public life in the United States by enhancing understanding of foreign countries, cultures, and trends.
- Activity Restrictions: Fellows are not permitted to engage in overtly political activities during their fellowship.
ICWA provides full financial support for fellows and their immediate, accompanying families. This funding covers living expenses, allowing fellows to live in good health and reasonable comfort. However, fellows are expected to live modestly, as the support is not a salary or stipend. The exact amount varies depending on the project, cost of living in the host country, and other factors.
- Final Selection: Made in mid-November 2025.
- Fellowship Start: Fellows are expected to begin within six months of selection.
- Application Materials:
- Initial letter of interest.
- Resume or CV.
- Completed application form.
Note: The fellowship is highly competitive, and not all applicants will receive a response.