American Psychological Association Congressional Fellowships 2026
Published on: November 10, 2025
Deadline: January 4, 2026
The American Psychological Association (APA) is accepting applications for its 2026 Congressional Fellowships, a prestigious program designed to provide psychologists with hands-on experience in public policy. This initiative helps bridge the gap between psychological research and government decision-making, encouraging the application of psychological insights in national policy development.
Program Overview
The APA Congressional Fellowship offers a one-year placement on the staff of a Member of Congress or a congressional committee in Washington, D.C. Fellows actively participate in legislative processes, including:
Drafting and reviewing legislation
Conducting policy research and oversight
Assisting with congressional hearings and briefings
Preparing reports, memos, and speeches
In addition, fellows undergo a two-week orientation on congressional and executive branch operations, followed by a year-long seminar series on science and public policy issues. These professional development sessions are managed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), alongside fellows from other scientific organizations.
Fellowship Benefits
Stipend: $93,750 for the one-year appointment
Health insurance reimbursement
Professional development stipend: $3,500
Fellowship duration: One year, starting approximately August 30, 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Be a U.S. citizen
Hold a doctorate in psychology or a related field (from an APA-accredited program and internship if in a professional area) by the application deadline
Be a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) or have applied for membership
Demonstrate academic and professional excellence in psychology
Possess strong knowledge of policy issues and a clear interest in applying psychology to societal challenges
Exhibit excellent communication and teamwork skills
Application Process
Eligible candidates are invited to apply online through the APA official website. Applicants should review the detailed program guidelines, eligibility checklist, and list of previous fellows before submitting their applications.
Application Deadline: January 4, 2026
Program Start Date: Approximately August 30, 2026
For complete details, visit the official American Psychological Association website.
About the APA Congressional Fellowship
The fellowship is part of APA’s broader effort to promote evidence-based policymaking by embedding scientific expertise within the U.S. Congress. It provides fellows with the opportunity to gain firsthand insight into legislative processes while promoting the application of psychology to address national challenges in areas like mental health, education, and public affairs.
Key Details
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Name | APA Congressional Fellowship 2026 |
| Sponsor | American Psychological Association |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded Fellowship |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA |
| Deadline | January 4, 2026 |
| Duration | 1 Year (Starting August 2026) |
| Eligible Applicants | U.S. Citizens, APA Members with Doctorate in Psychology |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – APA Congressional Fellowship 2026
1. Who is eligible for the APA Congressional Fellowship?Applicants must be U.S. citizens with a doctorate in psychology or a related field and must be members of the APA.
2. What is the duration of the fellowship?The fellowship lasts for one year, beginning around August 30, 2026.
3. What is the stipend amount?Fellows receive $93,750 plus reimbursement for health insurance and a $3,500 professional development stipend.
4. Where does the fellowship take place?Fellows work in Washington, D.C., within the offices of members of Congress or congressional committees.
5. How do I apply?Applications can be submitted through the official American Psychological Association website before January 4, 2026.
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