Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State
The William D. Clarke, Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship, funded by the U.S. Department of State, is a path to a career in the Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Special Agent. If you plan to enter a master’s degree program in fall 2024 and love the idea of pursuing a career protecting diplomacy and making a difference in the world, the Clarke DS Fellowship may be the perfect opportunity for you.
This unique two-year fellowship prepares you to enter the Foreign Service as a DSS Special Agent by providing:
- Up to $42,000 annually for two years in academic funding for tuition, room and board, books, mandatory fees and some travel expenses.
- Stipends, housing and travel allowances for the two summer practicums: A domestic practicum in Washington, D.C. and an overseas practicum at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.
- Personalized mentoring and professional development opportunities throughout the program.
Upon successful completion of the fellowship program and the State Department’s Foreign Service entry requirements, you will receive an appointment in the Foreign Service as a DSS Special Agent and launch a career at the forefront of law enforcement and international affairs.
Promoting Diversity in the Foreign Service
As one of several high-profile State Department diversity recruitment programs, the Clarke DS Fellowship strives to attract the best candidates to the Foreign Service that reflects the diversity of the United States. Based on the fundamental principle that diversity is a strength in our diplomatic efforts, the Clarke DS Fellowship program values varied backgrounds, including ethnic, racial, gender, and geographic diversity. Members of minority groups underrepresented in the Foreign Service, women, and individuals with financial need are encouraged to apply.
Now Accepting Applications for the 2024 Cohort
Applications are now being accepting through October 1, 2023. To be eligible to apply for the 2024 cohort, you must meet all the criteria below:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be at least 19 years old and no older than 32 years old (except for preference-eligible veterans).
- Be seeking admission to a two-year full-time master’s degree program at a U.S.-based accredited institution.
- Be on a timeline to graduate with master’s degree in spring 2026 while enrolled full-time for fall and spring semesters (starting fall 2024).
- Hold a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale at the time of application and maintain this GPA throughout the program.
- Pass the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) if selected as a finalist for the fellowship.
- Have a valid driver’s license if selected as a finalist for the fellowship.
There are additional requirements you must meet when you are selected as a Clarke DS Fellow and when you are appointed as a DSS Special Agent. You can find more info on these requirements on the website.
Are You Ready for the Challenge?
Don’t delay! Here are some steps to get started:
- Read about what DSS Special Agents do
- Watch videos with advice from current DSS Special Agents
- Start training now for the Physical Readiness Test – you’ll be required to pass it when you are selected as a finalist
- See this Quick Guide for a list of what you will need for the application
Contact Us with Questions
We’d love to talk with you and answer your questions. Send us an email at [email protected] let us know your contact info and the best time to reach you.
Learn more at ClarkeDSFellowship.org.
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Apply by October 1, 2023
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