The American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship Program is a highly selective, nonpartisan program devoted to expanding knowledge and awareness of Congress. Since 1953, it has brought select political scientists, journalists, federal employees, health specialists, and other professionals to Capitol Hill to experience Congress at work through fellowship placements on congressional staffs.

The ten-month program begins each November with an intensive one-month introduction to Congress taught by leading experts in the field. After orientation, fellows work in placements of their choosing and also participate in ongoing seminars and enrichment programs. Through this unique opportunity, the American Political Science Association enhances public understanding of policymaking and improves the quality of scholarship, teaching and reporting on American national politics.

May 2025 marked the conclusion of another successful year of the U.S.-Canada Legislative Exchange, an enduring partnership between APSA’s Congressional Fellowship Program and the Parliamentary Internship Programme (PIP) in Canada. We’re deeply grateful to the Canadian Embassy for their generous support and our outstanding PIP hosts in Ottawa and across Canada for their warm hospitality and collaboration. These exchanges offer an invaluable opportunity for fellows to engage in meaningful cross-border dialogue, deepen their understanding of parliamentary and congressional processes, and build lasting professional connections.

Learn more about the Parliamentary Internship Programme (PIP).

• Prospective Fellow Resources
• The Fellowship Experience
• Fellowship FAQs
• Our Fellows and Placements
• Partner Organizations and Resources