2026 Governor's Fellows Program
About the Program
The Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program offers participants a substantive, eight‑week experience within the Office of the Governor. Fellows are placed in the Governor’s Administration, where they serve as members of various offices and support day‑to‑day operations, research, and policy initiatives.
As part of the program fellows, also complete two structured program components:
- Professional Portfolio: Each Fellow develops a portfolio that highlights their accomplishments, skills, and professional growth throughout the program.
- Policy Project: Fellows work in small groups on a policy project that addresses an issue relevant to the Commonwealth. Projects culminate in a formal presentation to administration officials.
Together, these experiences offer a comprehensive introduction to public service, state government operations, and policy development in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Who Can Apply
The Governor’s Fellows Program welcomes applicants who are committed to public service and demonstrate strong academic, leadership, and civic engagement qualities. Eligible individuals include:
- Rising college seniors, graduating seniors, or graduate students;
- Students enrolled at a Virginia college or university, or Virginia residents enrolled at out-of-state institutions;
- Individuals with a record of academic excellence;
- Applicants who show evidence of leadership potential through work, campus involvement, or community initiatives; and
- Individuals who actively participate in extracurricular activities and service to their communities.
The program seeks candidates who are motivated, thoughtful, and eager to contribute to the work of the Commonwealth.
Program Timeline
The Governor’s Fellows Program follows a structured application and selection timeline to ensure a fair and efficient review process. Applicants should be aware of the following key phases:
All materials due
Virtual
All applicants notified
Full-time & in person
Application Period
- All application materials must be submitted no later than April 10, 2026.
- Late or incomplete submissions cannot be considered.
Interview Phase
- Selected applicants will be invited to participate in interviews beginning April 21, 2026.
- Interviews will be conducted virtually
Notification of Decisions
- Final decisions will be communicated to all applicants by April 30, 2026.
- Individuals selected for the program will receive additional onboarding instructions at that time.
Program Dates
- The 2026 Fellowship runs from June 8 through July 31, 2026.
- Fellows are expected to participate fulltime and in person for the duration of the program.
How to Apply
A complete application includes:
- Application form submitted through the online portal,
- Résumé summarizing academic, professional, and service experience,
- Official or unofficial transcript,
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references,
- Essay addressing commitment to public service and goals for participation, and
- Applicants must select up to three areas of interest to assist with placement decisions.
These components support a comprehensive review of each applicant’s qualifications and interests.
Click Apply Now to submit the online application.
Selection
Fellows are chosen solely on merit. The program does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, political affiliation, disability, or veteran status.
Assignments
Fellows are placed within the Governor’s Office. Assignments are matched to applicants’ backgrounds, interests, and professional goals.
Testimonials from Past Fellows
“The Fellows Program gave me the opportunity to take a deep dive into state policymaking alongside senior leaders in the administration. It remains one of the most enriching internship/fellowship programs in my career and is a great entry-point into public service.”
--Nathan Tatum, 2021 Fellow, Northam Administration
“My summer as a Governor's Fellow was the launching pad for my career. The combination of mentorship and professional learning, substantive policy work, and camaraderie and friendship was invaluable in setting me on my path in education policy in Richmond and in D.C. I know I would not be here, as Deputy Secretary, without that experience.”
--Anne Hyslop, 2007 Fellow, Kaine Administration
