International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027-2028: $110,000 Stipend Opportunity

The International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in Canada is seeking applications from mid-career U.S. professionals for its 2027-2028 program. This fellowship offers a unique chance to spend six to twelve months in Canada, deepening your understanding of U.S.-Canada relations and fostering cooperation between the two nations. The program provides a substantial stipend and support for finding a host institution.

Application Closing Date: October 30, 2026
Location: Canada
Programme Duration: 6 to 12 months
Stipend: $110,000 (for 12 months, prorated for shorter periods)
Minimum Qualification: Bachelor’s degree
Opportunity Type: Fellowship

About the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada

The International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in Canada, sponsored by Power Corporation of Canada, aims to build stronger connections and mutual understanding between emerging leaders in the United States and Canada. Launched in 2016, the fellowship supports U.S. professionals in gaining in-depth knowledge about Canada through a dedicated period of study and engagement. It is designed for individuals looking to contribute to foreign policy and enhance U.S.-Canada relations.

This program is ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in Canadian culture and policy. Fellows will work closely with a Canadian institution, contributing to research or projects that align with their professional interests and the fellowship’s goals. The experience is intended to be a full-time, in-person commitment, encouraging deep engagement with the host organization and Canadian professional networks.

About Power Corporation of Canada

Power Corporation of Canada is a diversified international management company. It holds interests in financial services, energy, and communications. The company is committed to supporting initiatives that foster international understanding and cooperation.

Through its sponsorship of the IAF in Canada, Power Corporation of Canada demonstrates its dedication to strengthening the relationship between the United States and Canada. This partnership supports the development of future leaders who can navigate and contribute to the complex dynamics of North American affairs.

Available Fellowship Opportunities

The International Affairs Fellowship in Canada is a singular opportunity focused on U.S.-Canada relations. While there are no specific fields or trades listed, the fellowship is open to professionals from various sectors. These include academia, business, government, journalism, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and think tanks.

The core of the fellowship involves a research proposal on an aspect of U.S.-Canada relations. Applicants are encouraged to propose work that aligns with their professional background and interests, contributing to a deeper understanding of the bilateral relationship.

What the Fellowship Offers

Successful applicants will receive significant benefits designed to support their professional development and research in Canada. The fellowship provides a substantial financial award to cover living expenses and research costs. This allows fellows to focus entirely on their work and immersion in the Canadian environment.

Key benefits include:

• A stipend of $110,000 for a twelve-month fellowship, with a prorated amount for shorter durations.
• A modest travel allowance to support research and engagement activities.
• Assistance from the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in finding a host organization that matches the fellow’s proposed work.
• The opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of Canada and its relationship with the United States.
• A full-time, in-person experience requiring at least four days per week on-site with the host organization.

Programme Duration and Location

The fellowship program runs for a duration of six to twelve months. Fellows will be placed at a host institution in Canada. The specific location will depend on the placement secured with a Canadian organization, which CFR assists in facilitating.

The fellowship is a full-time, in-person commitment. Fellows are expected to work on-site with their host organization for at least four days per week. This structure ensures deep immersion and active participation in Canadian professional and academic circles.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a U.S. citizen.
• Be a mid-career professional with a strong record of achievement.
• Demonstrate a commitment to a career in foreign policy.
• Show a clear interest in U.S.-Canada relations.
• Hold at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Possess a U.S. passport valid for at least six months beyond the fellowship end date.

Competencies Required

Selection for the IAF in Canada is based on several key criteria that highlight an applicant’s potential and suitability for the program. These include:

• Scholarly qualifications and/or professional experience: A strong academic or professional background relevant to foreign policy and U.S.-Canada relations.
• Research proposal: The merits and feasibility of a proposed research project on U.S.-Canada relations.
• Character and personal qualities: Traits conducive to promoting cross-cultural communication and cooperation.
• Career development: The potential contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant’s professional growth.

Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for ambitious U.S. professionals who are passionate about foreign policy and have a specific interest in strengthening ties between the United States and Canada. If you are a mid-career individual with a proven track record and a desire to deepen your expertise in North American relations, this program offers a valuable opportunity.

It suits those who are eager to engage in full-time, in-person research and professional development within a Canadian context. Applicants should be ready to commit to the program’s duration and actively participate in their host organization’s activities.

Required Documents

To apply for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada, candidates will need to submit the following:

• Basic biographical, educational, and employment information.
• A detailed project proposal outlining your research on U.S.-Canada relations and proposed placements.
• Two letters of support from individuals who can attest to your qualifications and potential.

Applicants should ensure all information provided is accurate and that their supporting documents are well-prepared.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the program’s eligibility requirements can apply online. The application period is from September 8 to October 30 for the 2027-28 fellowship cycle. Awardees will be notified by spring 2027.

Click here to apply for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027-2028.

Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and prepare their project proposal and letters of support before starting the online application.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted regarding their application status. The fellowship is a full-time commitment, and fellows are considered independent contractors, not employees of CFR. Therefore, they are ineligible for employment benefits, including health insurance. Applicants must ensure their U.S. passport is valid for at least six months beyond the fellowship end date.

Closing Date

The closing date for the International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027-2028 is October 30, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

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