International Affairs Fellowship in Canada for 2025 – 2026 with a stipend of $110,000
Vacancy Details
- Position: International Affairs Fellowship
- Organization: Council on Foreign Relations
- Location: Canada
- Duration: 12 months
- Deadline: November 1, 2024
About International Affairs Fellowship
The International Affairs Fellowship (AIF), launched in 2016 in Canada and sponsored by Power Corporation of Canada, seeks to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between rising generations of leaders and thinkers in the United States and Canada. This transformational program enables mid-career U.S. professionals to spend six to twelve months at a Canadian institution to deepen their knowledge of Canada. Individuals from academia, business, government, journalism, NGOs, and think tanks are all encouraged to apply. Prior experience working in or writing about Canada is not required.
Program Overview
The IAF in Canada program does not fund pre- or postdoctoral research, work toward a degree, or the completion of projects on which substantial progress has been made before the fellowship begins. The program is meant to be a transformational experience that enables awardees to develop new skills, pursue new avenues of research, or otherwise take a significant step in their career development. Although the program is intended for applicants without substantial working experience in Canada, individuals who have worked in Canada will be considered if they can demonstrate that the fellowship would add a significant new dimension to their career.
To apply, you will need to submit the following:
- Basic biographical, educational, and employment information
- Project proposal and proposed placements
- Two letters of support
Fellowship Award
The fellowship runs between six and twelve months. The program awards a stipend of $110,000 for a period of twelve months (or a prorated amount if the duration is shorter) as well as a modest travel allowance. Fellows are considered independent contractors rather than employees of CFR and are ineligible for employment benefits, including health insurance. No indirect costs can be deducted from the stipend.
CFR assists fellows in finding a host organization that matches their proposed work in Canada. However, all placements are made at the discretion of the host institution. CFR cannot guarantee placement at any specific agency or organization. The fellowship is intended as a full-time, in-person experience for the duration of the fellowship; fellows should expect to work on-site with their host organization at least three days per week.
Requirements
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Applicants must be mid-career professionals.
- Applicants must have a strong record of professional achievement.
- Applicants must have demonstrated commitment to a career in foreign policy and have an interest in U.S.-Canada relations.
- Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Applicants must have a U.S. passport, valid through six months after the fellowship end date.
Testimony
“The IAF in Canada provided a unique and unparalleled opportunity to learn about Canadian policymaking through effective engagement with government, civil society, and academia. It could not have come at a more appropriate time to observe this key bilateral relationship.” – Michelle Egan, Professor and Jean Monnet Chair ad Personam, School of International Service, American University (2018–19 IAF in Canada)
Selection Process
Selection as an IAF in Canada is based on the following criteria:
- Scholarly qualifications and/or professional experience
- The merits and feasibility of a research proposal on some aspect of U.S.-Canada relations
- Character and personal qualities conducive to promoting cross-cultural communication and cooperation
- The contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant’s career development
The selection process is highly competitive. CFR awards one to two fellowships each year. A strong preference is given to candidates who have never received a CFR fellowship.
Interested candidates who meet the program’s eligibility requirements can apply online between September 3 and November 1, 2024, for the 2025–26 fellowship cycle.