Fellowship Overview
Google is extending an invitation to aspiring policy enthusiasts to join its esteemed United States Public Policy Fellowship program for the Summer of
2026. This immersive experience is designed to provide students with invaluable practical exposure by placing them within public interest organizations situated in the heart of Washington D.C. The core focus of this fellowship lies in the critical and ever-evolving domains of internet and technology policy. Selected participants will have the unique chance to contribute to meaningful work, gaining direct insights into how policy is shaped and implemented in these vital sectors. The application window opens now and will officially close on April 9, 2026, at precisely 12 pm Eastern Time (ET), marking the final opportunity for interested candidates to submit their applications online.
Your Role and Guidance
As a Google Public Policy Fellow, your summer will be dedicated to collaborating with organizations at the forefront of technology and internet policy discussions. These public interest groups, all based in Washington D.C., offer a dynamic environment for learning and contribution. You won't be navigating this journey alone; each fellow will benefit from the dedicated mentorship of a lead mentor from their host organization. This guidance is crucial for professional development. Beyond mentorship, you'll engage directly with seasoned staff members, participating in stimulating discussions and gaining perspectives on the complexities of technology policy. The responsibilities might encompass a wide array of tasks, from conducting in-depth policy research and rigorous analysis to crafting comprehensive reports and white papers. You may also attend important meetings and conferences that bridge government and industry, and actively support advocacy initiatives. This multifaceted role ensures a rich and comprehensive learning experience.
Who Can Apply?
This fellowship warmly welcomes students from a diverse array of academic backgrounds, provided they can demonstrate a genuine passion and keen interest in the intricate world of internet and technology policy. Essential to the application are robust skills in research, persuasive writing, and effective communication. To meet the eligibility criteria, applicants must be actively enrolled in or have secured admission to an accredited educational institution by August 30, 2026. This stipulation covers all levels of study, including undergraduate, postgraduate, master's, and doctoral (PhD) programs, whether pursued on a full-time or part-time basis. Furthermore, candidates must have reached the age of 18 by January 1, 2026. It is important to note that individuals who have previously been part of the Google Policy Fellowship program are not eligible to reapply.
Stipend and Compensation
To support fellows during their summer engagement, host organizations are committed to providing a stipend. This financial assistance is structured based on the commitment level. Full-time fellows, dedicating 40 hours per week to their roles, will receive a stipend of $12,000, which approximates to Rs 10 lakh. For those opting for a part-time commitment of 20 hours per week, the stipend amount will be $6,000, equivalent to approximately Rs 5 lakh. The disbursement and management of these stipends are handled directly by the respective host organizations. Payment is contingent upon satisfactory performance throughout the fellowship and the completion of all necessary administrative procedures. It is also important for fellows to be aware that they will be personally responsible for any applicable taxes associated with the stipend received.
International Applicants
International students are encouraged to apply for this prestigious fellowship. However, there's a crucial requirement: applicants must possess the necessary authorization to work in the United States for the duration of the fellowship. Google has clarified that it will not offer assistance in securing these work authorization documents. Therefore, prospective international candidates must independently confirm their eligibility to work in the U.S. well in advance of submitting their application. This proactive step is essential to ensure a smooth and compliant participation in the program should they be selected.
Program Schedule and Application
The Summer 2026 fellowship is slated to commence in June 2026 and will conclude in August 2026, offering a concentrated period of intensive learning and contribution. While Google strongly advocates for an in-person experience in Washington D.C. to maximize engagement, the ultimate decision regarding the allowance of remote participation rests with each individual host organization. Applications will undergo a review process by the host organizations on a rolling basis. Given this approach, Google advises candidates to submit their applications at their earliest convenience, as some organizations may identify and select suitable fellows even before the official application deadline. Applicants should be aware that they will not receive a confirmation email upon submission; instead, host organizations will directly reach out to candidates who are shortlisted for further consideration. Prospective fellows have the option to apply to a maximum of two distinct host organizations.
