Undergraduate Fellowship

How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship is designed as a two-year program but Juniors may apply to complete a one-year version of the program in their senior year. Fellows who can commit to the full two-year program are preferred, as this allows for deeper engagement with the curriculum and fellowship community.

What is the time commitment?
Fellows should expect to dedicate approximately 6-8 hours per week during academic semesters for coursework and fellowship activities. Summer internships are full-time commitments.

What academic credit do the courses provide?
The two courses in Year One count as political science elective credits (PSC), and the courses in Year Two count as social science elective credits (SSC). Students should consult with their academic advisors about whether their transcripts can accommodate these electives.

Can I participate if I have other commitments?
Fellows can maintain other academic and extracurricular commitments, but must be able to attend all required courses and participate fully in fellowship programming. Fellows are not allowed to participate in other Colin Powell School Fellowships.

What if I'm studying abroad?
Fellows must be in residence at CCNY during academic semesters to participate in required courses. Study abroad is possible during winter terms.

What do you mean by "public service careers?"
The Moynihan Fellowship specifically prepares students for careers in government and policy research. This includes roles in:

• City, state, or federal government agencies
• Policy research organizations and think tanks
• Government relations and policy development

The fellowship is not designed for students primarily interested in:

• Direct service non-profit work
• Community organizing or activism
• Private sector careers
• General advocacy work

Are there other fellowship opportunities if my interests lie elsewhere?
Yes! The Colin Powell School offers several other fellowship programs that might better match your career goals. Learn more about each of these opportunities here.

Which class years are eligible to apply?
The fellowship is open to current CCNY freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. Sophomores are particularly encouraged to apply, as they can participate in the full two-year program. Juniors may apply to complete a one-year version of the program in their senior year.

Why are sophomores preferred?
Sophomores have been enrolled long enough to have demonstrated academic success at the college level while still having time to complete the full two-year program. This allows for maximum benefit from the curriculum and fellowship community.

Can freshmen apply?
Yes, though they should demonstrate strong academic performance in their first semester and clear commitment to public service.

Are transfer students eligible?
Yes, transfer students can apply if they will be enrolled at CCNY long enough to complete at least one year of the program.

Does my major matter?
No. The fellowship welcomes students from all majors who demonstrate interest in public service careers.

What are the GPA requirements?
Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA to apply.

Can students from other CUNY schools apply?
No. Only current City College students are eligible.

Do I need to be a full-time student?
Yes. Only full-time students may apply for and participate in the fellowship.

How are fellowship awards disbursed?
Academic year awards of $5,000 are disbursed each semester (in $2,500 installments). Internship funding of up to $5,000 is provided during summer placements.

Does accepting the fellowship affect other financial aid?
Applicants should consult CCNY's financial aid office to determine whether accepting a fellowship award will impact other aid packages. 

What costs does the fellowship cover?
The fellowship provides funding for academic year support and summer internships. Fellows are responsible for regular tuition and fees.

What are the requirements to maintain funding?
Fellows must:

• Adhere to City College's Code of Ethics and Professionalism Standards
• Maintain continuous enrollment at CCNY
• Complete all required courses
• Fulfill internship requirements
• Participate regularly in Moynihan Center programming
• Maintain consistent communication with program staff

What professional development support is provided?
Fellows receive:

• Comprehensive internship placement support, including:
  • Resume design and development
  • Interview preparation
  • Guidance throughout the application and placement process
• Professional skills workshops
• Access to mentorship opportunities through the Moynihan Center's network
• LinkedIn profile development
• Networking opportunities with professionals and thought leaders through Moynihan Center events and programs

How are internship placements determined?
Fellows work with program staff to identify placements aligned with their interests and fellowship track. The Center maintains partnerships with a large and growing list of host organizations, but fellows are not limited to choosing from this list.

What's the difference between the fellowship tracks?
New York City Leaders complete internships in city government agencies or elected officials' offices. Public Service Innovators may pursue internships at policy research organizations or state/federal agencies.

Can I arrange my own internship?
Fellows may propose internship sites, but all placements must be approved by program staff and meet fellowship requirements.

Are there any special requirements for government internships?
Yes, internships at government agencies require background checks. This process will be explained to fellows during the placement process.

Will there be in person or virtual opportunities for students to learn more about the fellowship?
The Moynihan Center will host a virtual info session on February 3 and an in-person session on February 6 for students interested in the fellowship. Click the respective links to learn more and RSVP.

What makes for a strong application?
Strong applications demonstrate:

• Clear commitment to public service careers
• Ability to engage in dialogue across difference
• Strong academic performance
• Thoughtful connection between the fellowship and career goals

Do I need previous public service experience?
While experience is valuable, we primarily look for demonstrated interest in public service careers and potential for growth.

Can my references be from outside CCNY?
We prefer CCNY faculty references who can speak to your academic performance and potential, but will consider references from other academic or professional sources.

When will I hear back about my application?
Finalists will be invited for interviews in March, with final decisions announced in early April.

Should I complete my application in one sitting?
Yes. The application system does not allow you to save and return to your application. We recommend reviewing the required materials in advance and preparing your responses before starting the application.

Do I have to answer all questions on the application?
Yes. Only complete applications will be considered.

Can I modify my application after submission?
No modifications will be accepted after submission.

How many fellows are selected?
Up to 25 fellows are selected each year.

Application Timeline

• Applications Open: Monday, January 13, 2025
• Information Sessions:
  • Virtual Session: Monday, February 3, 2025 from 12:30–1:00 pm.
  • In-Person Session: Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 12:30 PM–1:30 PM in Shepard Hall 550.
• Applications Close: Monday, February 17, 2025 at 11:59 pm ET
• Interviews: March 13-14, 2025 (tentative)
• Decision Notifications: Tuesday, March 18, 2025 (tentative)
• New Fellows Welcome and Orientation: April 3, 2025 (tentative)