CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program 2026: Paid DC Policy Experience
Imagine gaining hands-on experience in shaping U.S. laws while earning a solid salary in Washington, D.C. The CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program 2026 offers early-career professionals a chance to work directly with lawmakers on real policy issues. This paid opportunity through the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation combines legislative work, research, and networking to build skills for public service careers.
About the CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation runs this 12-month leadership program. It prepares participants for roles in public policy and government. Fellows act as full-time legislative aides and policy analysts. They contribute to actual work that influences national discussions.
The foundation is a non-partisan group that supports future leaders with scholarships, internships, and fellowships. The program runs in Washington, D.C., and requires relocation. It starts with structured training and leads to practical experience in Congress.
Fellowship Types
The program includes three main tracks. Each one fits different interests in policy and research.
Congressional Fellowships
Fellows spend the first six months in offices of Congressional Black Caucus members. They then move to a six-month placement on a congressional committee or subcommittee. This track matches personal interests with real legislative work.
John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowships
These fellows start with six months in a CBC member office. Next, they shift to the CBCF Center for Policy Analysis and Research. There, they study key social justice topics and produce reports.
Research Fellowships
This option focuses on full-time research for all 12 months. Fellows work at the CBCF research center on policy analysis and publications. It suits those who enjoy deep dives into data and ideas.
Salary and Benefits
Fellows receive strong support to focus on their work. The annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $70,000, plus a benefits package. Interim housing covers the first two months in July and August.
Other perks include monthly professional development sessions. Fellows get mentorship from experts and access to corporate sponsors. They also join an alumni network of over 8,000 professionals for long-term connections.
What Fellows Do
Daily tasks give fellows real impact. They draft memos, speeches, and opinion pieces. Research supports new bills and legislation.
Fellows help congressional offices and committees with operations. They meet constituents and stakeholders. They join policy discussions and manage legislative projects. These roles build skills for future jobs in government or advocacy.
CBCF Internship Opportunities
The foundation also offers paid internships as entry points. These semester-based programs pay $4,000 stipends. They focus on policy, communications, and leadership.
CBCF State Farm Communications Internship Program
This internship builds skills in messaging and media. It runs for a semester and helps participants learn professional communication in policy settings.
CBCF Walmart Emerging Leaders Internship Program
Aimed at rising leaders, this program offers hands-on experience. Fellows develop skills in leadership and policy work over a semester.
CBCF Pathways to the C-Suite Internship Program
This track prepares interns for high-level roles. It emphasizes professional growth in a policy environment during the semester.
Deadlines for these internships fall on June 26, 2026.
Eligibility and Requirements
Early-career professionals with interest in public policy qualify. Strong research, analysis, and communication skills are key. Applicants must relocate to Washington, D.C., and cover travel and living costs after initial housing.
Immediate family of CBC members, staff, CBCF staff, board, or sponsors cannot apply. The main fellowship deadline is May 1, 2026.
Career Impact of the Program
Alumni often land key roles in government, nonprofits, and business. The experience provides practical skills and lasting networks. It opens doors to influential positions in public service.
How to Apply
Visit the official CBCF website at https://cbcfinc.academicworks.com/ to start. Create an account and review requirements. More details on fellowships appear at https://www.cbcfinc.org/programs/fellowships/. Apply soon to join this top program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program?
It is a 12-month paid program in Washington, D.C., where early-career professionals work as legislative aides and policy analysts with Congressional Black Caucus members or committees.
What salary and benefits do fellows receive?
Fellows earn $60,000 to $70,000 annually, plus benefits, interim housing for the first two months, professional development, mentorship, and access to an alumni network.
What are the different fellowship tracks?
The tracks include Congressional Fellowships for legislative work, John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowships for policy research on social issues, and Research Fellowships for full-time policy analysis.
What is the application deadline for the fellowships?
The main deadline for fellowships is May 1, 2026; apply through the CBCF website at https://cbcfinc.academicworks.com/.