The New York City Urban Fellows Program 2027–2028 is now accepting applications. It is a highly selective, paid nine-month fellowship for recent graduates who want hands-on experience in public policy and government, working inside New York City’s Mayoral offices and City agencies. Applications close on 11 January 2027.
Who this suits: you don’t have to be a US citizen, but you must already have the right to work in the United States for the whole fellowship. The programme does not sponsor work visas. It is a good fit for African and other international graduates finishing a degree at a US university who will have work authorisation (such as OPT), and for green card holders.
Key Details
- Organiser: City of New York, Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS)
- Duration: 9 months, expected 7 September 2027 to 12 May 2028
- Location: New York City, in person
- Stipend: US$37,355
- Who: recent bachelor’s graduates (Spring 2025 to Spring 2027)
- Deadline: 11 January 2027
Benefits
- a stipend of US$37,355 for the nine months (taxable)
- health insurance (dental and vision not included)
- a full-time placement in a Mayoral office or City agency, working on real policy projects
- a seminar series with senior City officials, alumni and private-sector leaders
- volunteer service opportunities across the city
- a strong alumni network — former fellows hold leadership roles in government, non-profits and business
Not included: housing, student loans, financial aid or tuition support. New York is expensive, so plan your rent carefully.
Eligibility
- you received, or will receive, your bachelor’s degree between Spring 2025 and Spring 2027
- degrees awarded before January 2025 or in Summer 2027 are not eligible
- a master’s degree does not affect eligibility — only the date of your bachelor’s degree counts
- you can commit full-time for the nine months, pausing any graduate study or other work
- you can show you are eligible to work in the US after graduation and for the whole fellowship, under the USCIS Form I-9 rules
Selection Process
After the written application, shortlisted candidates go through an extensive interview process. Successful fellows are then matched with agencies across the City based on their interests and skills.
How to Apply
- Read the programme information on the official NYC Urban Fellows page and the official FAQ.
- Confirm your bachelor’s graduation date falls in the eligible window and that you will have US work authorisation.
- Prepare your résumé, transcripts and written responses on why you want to work in city government.
- Submit through the official Urban Fellows application form before 11 January 2027.
Tips
- Show genuine interest in urban issues — housing, transport, public health, climate or equity — with real examples.
- Mention leadership, community service or volunteer work; service is part of the programme.
- International students: speak to your university’s international office early about OPT timing so your work authorisation covers September 2027 to May 2028.
- Highlight any experience comparing city challenges in your home country with those in New York — a fresh perspective can help you stand out.
Related Opportunities
- CDC Public Health Informatics Fellowship 2027: Can International Applicants Apply?
- World Bank Young Professionals Program 2027
- UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP) 2026
Deadline: 11 January 2027. Paid fellowship in New York City; US work authorisation required.
