CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program 2026: Apply for Paid Congress Experience
Are you an early-career professional passionate about public policy and social justice? The CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program 2026 offers a chance to gain hands-on experience in Congress while earning a full salary. This 12-month program from the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation trains fellows to become leaders in public service.
Program Overview
The CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program 2026 targets policy professionals ready to make an impact. Fellows work as full-time legislative aides and policy analysts. Their tasks include drafting memos, speeches, and op-eds, plus researching bills and engaging with constituents.
The program runs for one year. In the first six months, fellows serve in a Congressional office. This gives them direct exposure to daily legislative work. Then, they move to a Congressional committee or subcommittee for the next six months. There, they see bills progress from committee to the floor, recommend strategies, and review legislative memos.
Key Benefits
Fellows receive a fixed salary of $60,000 for the full program duration. This comes with standard benefits. The paid training provides real-world skills in policy and leadership, setting participants up for future roles in public service.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Be a U.S. citizen or have a work permit valid for the entire program.
- Hold a master’s degree, doctoral degree, or juris doctor by the start date.
- Know the federal legislative process, U.S. Congress, Congressional Black Caucus, and related policies.
- Show strong analytical, oral, and written communication skills.
- Prove commitment to social justice through policy work, professional experience, or community activism for the global Black community.
Application Process
The deadline is May 1, 2026. Submit these items online:
- A resume (up to 2 pages) with extracurriculars, honors, jobs, community service, and skills.
- A cover letter (up to 2 pages) on your interest, background fit, career goals, and connection to the program.
- Two electronic letters of recommendation (no hard copies).
- Responses to two essay questions in the application portal.
Click here to apply. For full details, check the CBCF Congressional Fellowship page. Start preparing now to join this leadership opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program?
It is a 12-month program that places early-career policy professionals as legislative aides in Congress, with hands-on work in offices and committees.
Who can apply for the 2026 program?
U.S. citizens or those with valid work permits who hold a master’s, doctoral, or juris doctor degree, know the federal legislative process, and show commitment to social justice.
What is the salary and benefits?
Fellows earn a fixed salary of $60,000 for the year, plus standard benefits.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is May 1, 2026. Submit your resume, cover letter, recommendations, and essay responses online.