Google invites applications for Summer 2026 Public Policy Fellowship in Washington DC; here's how to apply

Google has opened applications for the United States Public Policy Fellowship for Summer 2026. The programme offers students a chance to work with public interest organisations in Washington DC on internet and technology policy issues.

Interested candidates can apply online until April 9, 2026, at 12 pm Eastern Time (ET).

About the fellowship

The Google Public Policy Fellowship allows students to spend the summer working with organisations that focus on technology and internet policy. Selected fellows will work with public interest groups based in Washington DC.

Each fellow will be guided by a lead mentor at the host organisation. During the fellowship period, they will also interact with senior staff members and take part in discussions related to technology policy.

Fellows may work on tasks such as policy research, analysis, preparing reports and white papers, attending meetings and conferences related to government and industry, and supporting advocacy work.

Eligibility overview

Students from different academic backgrounds can apply for the fellowship. However, applicants must show interest in internet and technology policy and should have strong research, writing, and communication skills.

To be eligible, candidates must be enrolled in or accepted into an accredited institution by August 30, 2026. This includes undergraduate, postgraduate, master’s, and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes. Students can be enrolled either full time or part time.

Applicants must also be at least 18 years old by January 1, 2026. Students who have previously participated in the Google Policy Fellowship are not eligible to apply.

Stipend details

Host organisations will provide a stipend to fellows for their participation.

Students working full time (40 hours per week) will receive $12,000 (about Rs 10 lakh). Those working part time (20 hours per week) will receive $6,000 (about Rs 5 lakh).

The host organisation will manage the payment of the stipend. Payment will depend on satisfactory performance and completion of required administrative formalities. Fellows will also be responsible for any taxes related to the stipend.

Can international students apply?

International students are allowed to apply for the fellowship. However, they must be authorised to work in the country where the fellowship takes place.

Google has stated that it will not provide assistance in obtaining work authorisation documents. Students must confirm their eligibility to work before applying.

Programme timeline

The Summer 2026 fellowship will start in June 2026 and continue until August 2026.

Google recommends that fellows work in person in Washington DC. However, host organisations will decide whether remote participation will be allowed.

Applications will be reviewed by host organisations on a rolling basis. Google has advised candidates to apply early, as some organisations may select fellows before the final deadline.

Applicants will not receive a confirmation email after submitting their application. Host organisations will directly contact shortlisted candidates.

Candidates can apply to a maximum of two host organisations.

How to apply

Students can submit their applications through the official website. The application form is available here.

Applicants must be willing to work either full time (40 hours per week) or part time (20 hours per week) during the fellowship period, depending on the requirements of the host organisation.
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