Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028: Funded Opportunity for STEM Graduates

The Harris Social Impact Fellowship is now open for applications for the 2027-2028 program. This is a funded, 11-month fellowship for recent graduates and early-career professionals with strong STEM skills who are passionate about making a difference through evidence-based change. The program offers intensive training in policy analysis, research, and data analytics, combined with practical experience at a leading research center or policy institute.

Application Closing Date: October 19, 2026
Location: Not specified
Programme Duration: 11 months
Stipend: $75,000
Minimum Qualification: Bachelor’s degree

About the Harris Social Impact Fellowship

The Harris Social Impact Fellowship is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to drive data-driven change in public, private, and social sectors. It begins with an eight-week academic coursework phase at the University of Chicago, focusing on critical areas like research methods, data analytics, and economic analysis. Following this intensive academic period, fellows spend nine months working on real-world policy challenges.

These challenges often address urgent issues such as educational equity, climate action, crime reduction, and improving government efficiency. The fellowship provides a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, culminating in a capstone project that tackles a significant social impact challenge in partnership with a mission-driven organization.

Throughout the program, fellows benefit from professional development coaching, mentorship from experienced policy leaders, and access to a broad network of faculty, alumni, and practitioners. This comprehensive approach ensures participants emerge with enhanced skills, a stronger professional network, and a defining career experience.

About the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

The University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy is a leading institution dedicated to training future leaders in public policy. Its faculty are at the forefront of research and innovation, developing evidence-based solutions to complex societal problems. The school is known for its rigorous academic programs, which emphasize analytical and quantitative skills.

Harris Public Policy aims to foster a community of scholars and practitioners committed to improving public life. Through its various programs, including the Social Impact Fellowship, the school seeks to empower individuals to make a meaningful impact in government, non-profits, and the private sector. The school’s commitment to data-driven decision-making and rigorous analysis is central to its educational mission.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants to the Harris Social Impact Fellowship will receive a comprehensive package designed to support their professional growth and development. This includes a substantial stipend to cover living and healthcare expenses throughout the program. Additionally, a separate fund is allocated to fully cover the academic credential associated with the fellowship.

Participants will gain hands-on experience working on pressing social issues at leading research centers and policy institutes. The program emphasizes professional development through workshops focused on leadership and technical skills, problem-solving exercises, and networking opportunities with senior figures in policy and civic leadership. Fellows also become part of a lifelong community, with opportunities for ongoing connection and engagement through an annual retreat.

Programme Duration and Location

The Harris Social Impact Fellowship is an 11-month program. The academic coursework component takes place over the first eight weeks, primarily at the University of Chicago. The subsequent nine months involve immersive learning at leading research centers and policy institutes. Specific locations for the immersive learning phase are not detailed but are described as being at top research centers or policy institutes.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship, applicants must demonstrate a strong capacity for quantitative, technical, or analytical work. This can be shown through coursework, research projects, or previous work experience. Applicants must be recent college graduates or early-career professionals, with their bachelor’s degree conferred before the fellowship’s start date.

It is important to note that the University of Chicago cannot sponsor visas for this program. Therefore, applicants who hold a U.S. visa are responsible for confirming that their participation in the fellowship aligns with their current visa status. The fellowship does not qualify for the STEM OPT extension.

Competencies Required

Successful candidates for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship will possess strong analytical and quantitative skills. They should have a demonstrated ability to engage in serious technical or analytical work, evidenced by their academic record or professional experience. A passion for evidence-based change and a commitment to addressing social impact challenges are also essential qualities.

The program is designed for individuals who are eager to learn and apply advanced research and data analysis techniques to real-world problems. Adaptability and a willingness to engage with complex policy issues are important, as fellows will be working on diverse challenges across different sectors.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideally suited for recent graduates and early-career professionals who have a solid foundation in STEM fields and a genuine desire to contribute to social impact initiatives. If you are passionate about using data and research to solve critical societal problems, such as educational inequity, climate change, or public safety, this program offers a unique pathway.

The fellowship is for individuals ready to immerse themselves in intensive academic training followed by practical, hands-on experience in policy analysis and research. It is a great opportunity for those looking to build a career in public policy, research, or data-driven social change.

Required Documents

To apply for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship, candidates will need to prepare several key documents. These include a Motivation Statement, which should articulate your interest in the fellowship and your career aspirations. A Technical Experience Statement is also required, detailing your relevant quantitative or analytical work.

Applicants must also submit their Resume, outlining their educational background and professional experience. One Letter of Recommendation is needed to support your application, and you will be required to provide your Transcripts from previous academic institutions.

How to Apply

Applications for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship are to be submitted online. Interested candidates should visit the official application portal to begin the process. It is recommended that applicants review all program details and eligibility criteria carefully before starting their application.

Ensure all required documents are prepared and uploaded correctly. Pay close attention to the instructions for submitting your Motivation Statement, Technical Experience Statement, Resume, Letter of Recommendation, and Transcripts. Complete the online form accurately and submit your application before the closing date of October 19, 2026.

Click here to apply for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the selection process. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their application is complete and all required documents are submitted by the deadline. Please verify that your bachelor’s degree will be conferred prior to the start of the fellowship. Remember that the University of Chicago cannot sponsor visas for this program.

Closing Date

The closing date for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028 is October 19, 2026.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.