The William Randolph Hearst Fellowship 2026 is now open. This fellowship is offered by The Aspen Institute Program on Philanthropy and Social Innovation (PSI) in Washington, D.C., and it gives an opportunity to motivated undergraduate or graduate students to intern with PSI (either remotely or at its Washington, D.C. office).
The aim is to expose emerging leaders to challenges and opportunities within philanthropy, social enterprise, nonprofits, and other social-impact sectors. Selected Fellows may also secure academic credit with their home institutions.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: Aspen Institute PSI (Washington, D.C.)
- Eligible Applicants: Undergraduate & Graduate Students
- Category: Fellowship / Internship Grant | Social Sector & Nonprofit Focus
- Reward: Paid Internship (Hourly Pay) | Work Experience in Nonprofit Sector | Professional Exposure
- Deadline: Unspecified (Applications now open)
Fellowship Details
The Hearst Fellowship is structured to nurture a diverse cadre of future leaders in philanthropy and social innovation. Through this program, Fellows work as interns at PSI — contributing to research, writing, administrative support, and other program tasks.
Depending on your institution, you may arrange to receive academic credit for the experience. The fellowship aims to deepen understanding of grantmaking foundations, nonprofits, social enterprises, and public-private partnerships, all within a setting that promotes social good and collective impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Hearst Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a university or higher-education institution (undergraduate or graduate level) at the time of application.
- For Summer applicants: Provide proof of enrollment for the upcoming fall semester.
- Have a strong academic record, and a demonstrated interest in nonprofit work, philanthropy, or social innovation.
- Have solid research and writing skills.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Be authorized to work lawfully in the United States. If selected, Fellows must complete employment eligibility verification.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected Fellows will receive:
- Hourly pay (for Fall and Winter/Spring placements: approximately 15–20 hours/week, at US $18–$19 per hour)
- Valuable internship experience in philanthropy/social innovation, working directly with PSI leadership and programs
- Opportunity for academic credit, if arranged with your home institution
- Exposure to nonprofit sector operations, grantmaking, and social enterprise initiatives — a strong foundation for a career in social impact or development work
Required Documents
When applying, you should be ready to submit:
- Current résumé / CV
- Cover letter that explains: your interest or experience in philanthropy/nonprofits/social innovation; your research or writing skills; your financial need; and what unique perspectives you would bring as a Fellow.
- If shortlisted: an unofficial academic transcript, a writing sample, and at least one letter of recommendation or reference (professor or supervisor).
How to Apply
To apply for the Hearst Fellowship 2026:
- Visit the official application portal
- Complete and submit your application with all required documents (resume, cover letter, etc.).
- If selected for interview, you will be asked for additional documents: unofficial transcript, writing sample, and reference letter.
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