Atlas Corps is pleased to extend an invitation to social change leaders worldwide for their prestigious fellowships in the United States. The 12-month US-based Fellowship and 14-month Blended In-Person Fellowship offer a unique opportunity to engage in transformative experiences and foster meaningful connections. Aspiring change-makers will join a diverse cohort of talented individuals, gain valuable skills, and contribute to positive social impact. The 2022/2023 program promises to empower leaders in their pursuit of creating a better future.
Fellowship Deadline
- July 30th 2023
Host Country
- United States of America
Mode/Type of Fellowships
- 12-month In-Person Fellowship in the U.S.
- Blended (Remote and US-based) 14-Month Fellowship
- Virtual Leadership Institute
Fellowship Areas
- Communications & Marketing
- Monitoring & Evaluation/Data Analysis
- Operations & Human Resources
- Partnership Building & Business Development
- Program & Project Management
Benefits of Atlas Corps Fellowship in the United States of America
- Fellows will receive travel grants for both domestic and international travel, assisting them in covering transportation expenses associated with the fellowship.
- A modest monthly stipend will be provided to cover food, shared accommodation, and local transportation.
- Medical insurance of the fellows will be covered.
- During remote service, Fellows will receive a stipend based on the local cost of living. This stipend will be given to cover lodging for one person, basic utilities, food, local transportation, and financial support for the technology necessary to meet Host Organization requirements remotely.
- J1 visa will be provided.
- The fellows will get placement with a Host Organization.
- The fellows will participate in the Atlas Corps Global Leadership Lab.
Eligibility for the Atlas Corps Professional Development Programs
To be considered eligible for the Fellowship, the following criteria must be met:
- A minimum of two or more years of extensive, full-time professional experience.
- Possession of a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.
- Proficiency in the English language, encompassing oral, writing, and reading skills.
- Being 35 years of age or younger.
- Demonstrated dedication to addressing critical social issues prevalent in your country or region.
In addition to the aforementioned requirements, the Fellowship entails the following conditions:
- The two or more years of professional experience should be specifically focused on at least one of our five primary skill areas: 1) Communications and Marketing, 2) Monitoring and Evaluation / Data Analysis, 3) Operations & Human Resources, 4) Partnership-Building and Business Development, or 5) Program and Project Management.
- Pledge to return to your home country upon completion of the 12-18 month Blended Fellowship.
- Willingness to sustain oneself on a basic stipend that solely covers essential needs such as food, shared housing, and local transportation.
- Citizens from the majority of countries (excluding the United States) are eligible to apply for the Fellowship.
Additional requirements for the Virtual Leadership Institute
To be eligible for the Virtual Leadership Institute, you need to meet the following additional requirements:
- Possess the necessary technological capabilities to actively engage in video calls, which typically occur once or twice per month.
- Be available and committed to dedicating a minimum of 3 hours per week for a duration of 6 months to complete online activities and assignments.
- The Virtual Leadership Institute welcomes applications from citizens of all countries. However, please note that certain special initiatives within the program may be exclusively open to citizens of specific countries or regions.
The Application Process
The application process for the Atlas Corps Fellowship involves several stages and requirements. Here is an overview of the application process:
Online Application
- Applicants are required to register for an account and save their login information through the online application system (https://atlascorps.embark.com/login/apply?target=fellowship), allowing them to return to the application at any time.
- The application includes an eligibility test to determine if applicants meet the basic requirements of the programs.
- Upon passing the eligibility test, applicants will provide information on their passport, travel/visa history, language skills, employment history, professional skills, and social issue areas. They will also complete a brief biography and a short essay question.
- Additional attachments are required, including an official transcript or diploma from previously attended universities.
- Two recommendations are needed from individuals who know the applicants in a professional capacity. Recommenders will receive an email through the application system with instructions to provide their recommendations.
Selection Board Interview (by invitation only)
- Top applicants who have the potential to match Host Organization placements will be invited for an interview with the Atlas Corps Selection Board. The interview will be conducted via Skype.
Semi-Finalist Status
- Applicants who pass the interview stage will be designated as Semi-Finalists for the Atlas Corps Fellowship.
- Semi-Finalists are eligible to be reviewed by potential Host Organizations for placements based on their interests, skillset, and the organization’s needs.
Host Organization Review and Interview
- Potential Host Organizations submit position descriptions for available Fellowship positions to Atlas Corps.
- Semi-Finalists are matched with potential Host Organizations based on their qualifications and interests.
- Semi-Finalists may be invited for Skype video interviews with potential Host Organizations, moving on to the Finalist stage.
- The Host Organization may request additional information, such as sample assignments, from the Finalists.
Selection for the Fellowship
- Host Organizations make their final recommendations to Atlas Corps, and selected applicants are notified.
- Atlas Corps provides support to selected Fellows for logistical arrangements and visa application (e.g., J-1 visa for U.S.-based components).
- Fellows receive support to meet technological requirements for the online component of the Blended Fellowship or Remote Fellowship.
Tips to improve your application for the Atlas Corps 2023 Professional Development Program
- Context and Clarity: Clearly explain your background, including your educational and professional experiences, to provide a comprehensive understanding of your journey. Elaborate on how these experiences have shaped your skills and aspirations for social impact.
- Specificity and Results: Instead of vague statements, provide specific examples of projects or initiatives you have been involved in. Highlight the measurable outcomes and impact you have achieved, demonstrating your ability to create meaningful change.
- Consistency: Ensure that your application materials, including your resume, cover letter, and essays, are consistent in terms of formatting, tone, and messaging. This portrays professionalism and attention to detail.
- Keywords and Statistics: Incorporate relevant keywords and statistics to showcase your familiarity with the field and your ability to navigate key challenges. This helps you stand out and demonstrates your knowledge and expertise.
- Passion for Social Impact: Convey your genuine passion for social impact by sharing personal anecdotes, experiences, or reasons that drive you to make a difference. Let the selection committee understand your deep-rooted commitment to creating positive change.
- Honesty and Accuracy: Be truthful and accurate in presenting your experiences, skills, and achievements. Highlight your strengths while acknowledging areas where you have room to grow. Authenticity is valued and builds trust.
- Compelling Biography: Craft a compelling and concise biography that captures your professional journey, core values, and motivations. Showcase how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to the program and the broader social impact sector.
- Skill Expertise: Emphasize your expertise in specific skills that are relevant to the program and its focus areas. Highlight any certifications, training, or professional development activities that validate your proficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Atlas Fellowship?
The Atlas Fellowship is a prestigious program that provides professionals from around the world with the opportunity to participate in a transformative fellowship experience. Fellows are placed with Host Organizations, receive a monthly stipend, travel grants, and access to professional development opportunities. The fellowship aims to cultivate global leaders and foster cross-cultural exchange in addressing critical social issues.
What is the goal of the Atlas Corps Fellowship?
The goal of the Atlas Corps Fellowship is to empower and support emerging global leaders in addressing critical social issues. Through placements with Host Organizations, the fellowship provides fellows with opportunities to enhance their skills, gain valuable experience, and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
How do you answer why you are applying for this fellowship?
I am applying for this fellowship because it aligns perfectly with my passion for creating positive social change. The opportunity to work with renowned Host Organizations and collaborate with like-minded professionals from around the world excites me. I believe that this fellowship will provide me with the necessary skills, knowledge, and network to amplify my impact and contribute meaningfully to addressing critical social issues. I am eager to learn, grow, and make a difference, and this fellowship presents the ideal platform to do so.
Can I apply for the Atlas Corps Fellowship if I’m over 40 years old?
No, the Atlas Corps Fellowship has an age requirement of 35 years or younger. Applicants must be within this age range at the time of application. The fellowship aims to support emerging leaders early in their careers, providing them with valuable experiences and opportunities for growth. Individuals over the age of 40 are not eligible to apply for the fellowship.
What happens if I am not selected by a Host Organization?
If you are not selected by a Host Organization, you may be given the option to keep your application on file for consideration in the future. Atlas Corps continuously reassesses Semi-Finalists for future Fellowship placements
References
- https://atlascorps.org/apply/
- https://atlascorps.org/faq/
- https://www.scholarshipair.com/scholarships-in/united-states
