Applications are open for the Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028 - a highly selective, full-time, 11-month programme at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy for recent graduates and early-career professionals with strong STEM skills and a passion for evidence-based change.
Fellows combine intensive training in policy analysis, research, critical reasoning, and data analytics with a hands-on placement at a leading research centre or policy institute. Cohort size: about 15 fellows. Programme: July 2027 - June 2028 on the Hyde Park campus. Deadline: 19 October 2026, 11:59 p.m. CT.
This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on the official Harris Social Impact Fellowship page. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | Harris Social Impact Fellowship |
| Host | University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy |
| Location | Hyde Park campus, Chicago, USA (in-person / full-time) |
| Dates | July 2027 - June 2028 (11 months) |
| Cohort size | About 15 fellows |
| Stipend | US$75,000 for living and healthcare expenses |
| Academic support | US$21,000 to fully cover the fellowship academic credential |
| Structure | ~8 weeks coursework + ~9 months applied placement + capstone |
| Deadline | 19 October 2026, 11:59 p.m. Central Time |
| Official page | info.harris.uchicago.edu/social-impact-fellowship |
| Apply | Harris application portal |
Programme Structure
- Academic coursework (~8 weeks): intensive, faculty-led training in research methods, data analytics, economic analysis, and analytical politics at Harris
- Applied learning (~9 months): placement with leading research centres and policy institutes on issues such as educational equity, climate action, public safety/crime reduction, health equity, and government efficiency
- Capstone: a real-world policy challenge project
Remote/hybrid arrangements may vary by host site after the coursework period.
Benefits
- US$75,000 stipend for living and healthcare expenses
- US$21,000 funding covering the fellowship academic credential
- Faculty-designed training at the University of Chicago Harris School
- Immersive placement at a top research centre or policy institute
- Selective cohort of about 15 peers
Eligibility
- Recent college graduate or early-career professional (bachelor’s degree conferred before the fellowship start)
- Demonstrated capacity for serious technical, quantitative, or analytical work (coursework, research, or experience)
- Strong STEM / technical skills and interest in evidence-based social impact
- Must be legally authorised to work in the U.S. - UChicago cannot sponsor visas for this programme; visa holders must confirm eligibility with their sponsor. The Fellowship does not qualify for STEM OPT extension
Application Requirements
- Motivation statement
- Technical experience statement (one page)
- Resume
- One letter of recommendation
- Transcripts
Selection Timeline (July 2027 cohort)
| Stage | When |
|---|---|
| Application deadline | 19 October 2026 |
| Phase 1: take-home technical assessment | Mid - late November 2026 |
| Phase 2: virtual interviews | Early - mid December 2026 |
| Phase 3: lab matching + on-campus interview day | Mid - late January 2027 |
How to Apply
- Review the programme on the official Harris Social Impact Fellowship page.
- Prepare your statements, resume, recommendation, and transcripts.
- Submit via the Harris application portal by 19 October 2026, 11:59 p.m. CT.
Official Links
Apply - Harris Social Impact Fellowship
Programme overview - Harris School
Related Opportunities on Opportunity Station
- Gates Cambridge Scholarships 2027-2028
- Amelia Earhart Fellowship 2027
- Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027
- Browse all fellowships
FAQs - Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028
When is the deadline?
19 October 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.
How much funding is provided?
US$75,000 stipend plus US$21,000 for the academic credential.
When does the fellowship run?
July 2027 through June 2028 (11 months, full-time, Chicago).
Is visa sponsorship available?
No. Applicants must already be authorised to work in the U.S.; the programme does not qualify for STEM OPT extension.
Where do I apply?
Through the official Harris application portal.
