The U.S. Google Public Policy Fellowship Programme 2023 is open year-round to students who are enthusiastic about issues related to the internet and technology policy. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to work for a semester at a prominent public interest organization that is actively engaged in discussions about technology policy. For more details about the U.S. Google Public Policy Fellowship, please refer to our FAQ section.

Accepted fellows will be matched with a lead mentor at their host organization and will collaborate with various experienced staff members throughout the semester. This engagement will involve making meaningful contributions to public discourse on matters concerning technology policy, as well as exploring potential academic and professional interests. Fellows will play a substantial role in their organization’s activities, including conducting policy research and analysis, preparing reports and white papers, attending important meetings and conferences within the government and industry, and participating in advocacy efforts. You can find additional information about the participating organizations here.

What is the Google Policy Fellowship program?

The Google Public Policy Fellowship program offers students who are keenly interested in matters related to the internet and technology policy the unique opportunity to dedicate a semester to working on these subjects at public interest organizations in Washington, D.C.

Who is eligible to apply?

We are seeking students who have a strong passion for technology and who wish to fully immerse themselves in the realm of Internet policy for a semester. We welcome applications from students of all majors and degree programs who exhibit the following attributes:

• Demonstrate a commitment to internet and technology policy either through previous actions or personal statements.
• Exceptional academic track record, along with noteworthy professional, extracurricular, or volunteer involvements, and specialized knowledge in relevant subjects
• Outstanding analytical, communication, research, and writing skills
• Capability to efficiently manage multiple projects simultaneously, work intelligently and resourcefully in a fast-paced environment

Fellows who commit to full-time work, equivalent to 40 hours per week, will receive a stipend of USD 12,000 for the fellowship period. Fellows opting for part-time work, around 20 hours per week, will receive a stipend of USD 6,000. If you are interested in applying to become a Google Public Policy Fellow for Fall 2023, please click here.

Are there any age restrictions for participation?

Yes, you must be at least 18 years old by August 30, 2023, in order to be eligible to join the Google Public Policy Fellowship program.

Are there citizenship prerequisites for the Fellowship?

You need to be eligible and authorized to work in the country where your fellowship takes place. Google is unable to provide guidance or assistance in obtaining the necessary documentation to meet this requirement.

Who qualifies to take part in the Google Public Policy Fellowship program?

To be eligible for participation, you must be a student. Google defines a student as someone who is enrolled in or accepted into an accredited educational institution, which may include but is not limited to colleges, universities, master’s programs, PhD programs, and undergraduate programs. Your eligibility hinges on your enrollment in an accredited university by August 30, 2023.

You may be enrolled as either a full-time or part-time student. Moreover, you must be eligible and authorized to work in the country where your fellowship will occur. Google cannot provide guidance or assistance regarding the necessary documentation to fulfill this requirement.

Please note that previous Google Policy Fellows are not eligible to apply.

I am an international student. Can I apply and take part in the program?

To participate in the Google Public Policy Fellowship, you must be a student as defined by Google (see above). Additionally, you must be eligible to work in the country where your fellowship will take place. Google cannot provide guidance or assistance regarding the necessary documentation to fulfill this requirement.

I have been accepted into an accredited post-secondary school program but have not yet commenced attendance. Can I still participate in the program?

As long as you are officially enrolled in a college or university program by August 30, 2023, you are eligible to participate in the Google Public Policy Fellowship.

I am set to graduate during the program. Can I still take part?

As long as you are actively enrolled in a college or university program by August 30, 2023, you remain eligible to participate in the program.

What is the program timeline?

The deadline for applications in the United States is Friday, August 11th at 12:00 p.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. PT. The Fall 2023 Fellowship is scheduled to commence in early September 2023 and will run through December.

What is the time commitment for the Public Policy Fellowship program?

Applicants should be ready and willing to commit to either full-time work (40 hours per week) or part-time work (20 hours per week) during the Fellowship, based on the requirements of the Host Organization.

Is the Google Policy Fellowship program conducted in person or remotely?

While we recommend that all fellows be physically present in Washington, DC, the decision to accept remote fellows lies with the host organizations.

How are stipend payments handled?

Host organizations will provide a stipend of $12,000 USD for each full-time fellow (40 hours per week), and a stipend of $6,000 USD for each part-time fellow (20 hours per week).

Please be aware that payment is contingent upon receiving satisfactory evaluations from the host organization and completing all required enrollment and other forms. The host organization is responsible for coordinating stipend payments. Fellows are accountable for any local, state, or federal taxes that may be associated with their receipt of the Fellowship stipend.

What documentation is necessary from students?

Students should be prepared to provide, upon request, transcripts from their accredited institution as proof of enrollment or admission status, whether official or a photocopy of the original. Students will also be required to sign a standard non-disclosure agreement.

I wish to leverage the work I undertake during my Google Policy Fellowship to gain course credit from my university. Is this acceptable?

If you require documentation to present to your school in order to secure course credit, you can reach out to your host organization for assistance.

What is Google’s relationship with the host organizations?

Google furnishes funding and administrative support for the program. The host organization is responsible for reviewing candidates, selecting fellows, and providing comprehensive supervision of the fellows. It’s important to note that Google and the host organizations are not partners or affiliates. The host organizations do not express the views or opinions of Google and cannot legally bind Google.

Can I apply to multiple host organizations?

You are welcome to submit applications to up to three host organizations. If you are interested in becoming a Google Public Policy Fellow for Fall 2023, please click here.