Are you an early-career professional passionate about public policy and ready to work in Washington, D.C.? The CBCF Congressional Fellowship and Internship Program 2026 offers paid positions with salaries from $60,000 to $70,000. This 12-month program places you at the heart of U.S. legislative work, building skills for a career in government or advocacy.
About the CBCF Congressional Fellowship Program
The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) runs this leadership program to train the next generation of policy experts. As a non-partisan group, CBCF supports scholarships, internships, and fellowships for people interested in public service. Fellows act as full-time legislative aides and policy analysts for a full year.
You gain hands-on experience in the U.S. Congress. The program mixes real-world tasks with training sessions on leadership and policy skills. It starts in the summer and requires you to move to Washington, D.C.
Types of Fellowships Available
CBCF offers three main fellowship tracks to match different interests.
Congressional Fellowships
In this track, you spend the first six months in the office of a Congressional Black Caucus member. Then, you move to a six-month role on a congressional committee or subcommittee. You choose placements based on your policy interests, like education or health care.
John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowships
This option focuses on social justice. You start with six months in a CBC member’s office. After that, you join CBCF’s Center for Policy Analysis and Research for six months. There, you study issues like equality and civil rights through reports and data.
Research Fellowships
Research fellows work the full 12 months at the policy research center. Your main job is to analyze data, write reports, and support publications. This track suits those who love deep dives into policy topics without daily office duties.
Salary and Benefits Package
Fellows receive strong pay and support to focus on their work.
The base salary ranges from $60,000 to $70,000 per year. A full benefits package covers health insurance and more. CBCF provides housing help for the first two months, in July and August, to ease your move.
Other perks include monthly training workshops, mentors from top sponsors, and networking events. You join an alumni network of over 8,000 professionals. These connections last a lifetime and open doors to future jobs.
Daily Responsibilities of Fellows
Fellows jump into real legislative action from day one. You draft memos, speeches, and opinion pieces for members of Congress. Research helps shape new bills on topics like jobs or justice.
You support offices by meeting constituents and stakeholders. This means listening to community needs and explaining policies. You also track bills and join policy meetings to build your expertise.
These tasks teach you how laws get made. By the end, you have a strong resume for policy roles in government, nonprofits, or business.
Paid Internship Opportunities
CBCF also has shorter paid internships for students and new professionals. These last a semester and pay $4,000 each. Deadlines are June 26, 2026.
The CBCF State Farm Communications Internship teaches media and messaging skills. The CBCF Walmart Emerging Leaders Internship builds leadership in policy settings. The CBCF Pathways to the C-Suite Internship prepares you for high-level roles with professional training.
These programs offer a taste of D.C. work without a full-year commitment. They lead to fellowships or jobs later.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Rules
This program targets early-career people with skills in research, writing, and analysis. You need a real interest in public policy or service. A college degree helps, but experience counts too.
You must relocate to Washington, D.C., and cover travel costs after the first housing aid. Family members of CBC members, staff, or sponsors cannot apply. Check the site for full details.
Career Boost from the Program
CBCF alumni land top jobs in government agencies, think tanks, and companies. The hands-on work and network give you an edge. Many move up to senior policy roles quickly.
Past fellows credit the program for their start in D.C. It builds confidence and contacts that pay off for years.
Application Process and Deadlines
Start by visiting the CBCF website at cbcfinc.academicworks.com. Create an account and review requirements for your chosen track. Major fellowships close on May 1, 2026; internships on June 26, 2026.
Submit resumes, essays, and references online. Prepare to explain your policy passion and skills. For more, check cbcfinc.org/programs/fellowships. Apply soon to join this top program.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for CBCF fellowships?
Fellows earn a base salary from $60,000 to $70,000 per year, plus a full benefits package including health insurance.
What types of fellowships does CBCF offer?
CBCF provides Congressional Fellowships, John R. Lewis Social Justice Fellowships, and Research Fellowships, each lasting 12 months with different focuses.
Who is eligible to apply for the program?
Early-career professionals with skills in research, writing, and analysis, and a passion for public policy are eligible; a college degree helps but experience counts too.
What are the application deadlines?
Major fellowships close on May 1, 2026, and paid internships on June 26, 2026; apply online via cbcfinc.academicworks.com.