Deadline: 24-Apr-2026
The McCloy Fellowship Program by the American Council on Germany supports early-career American and German professionals to conduct independent, transatlantic research on critical political, economic, and social issues. The fellowship offers funding, intellectual freedom, and cross-cultural engagement to strengthen the German-American partnership through applied research and dialogue.
McCloy Fellowship Program Overview
The McCloy Fellowship Program is a prestigious transatlantic fellowship launched by the American Council on Germany to empower young professionals from the United States and Germany. It enables fellows to design and carry out independent research projects focused on major global and bilateral challenges shaping Europe, the United States, and the international order.
The program emphasizes intellectual independence, professional growth, and practical engagement with policymakers, experts, and institutions.
Key Themes and Research Focus Areas
Fellows are encouraged to align their research with one or more of the following priority themes:
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Political and economic division
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Resilient and sustainable communities
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Media and its influence on society
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Digital infrastructure and governance
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Migration and asylum policy
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Germany’s Zeitenwende and security transformation
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The impact of war and conflict in Europe
Research topics should demonstrate relevance to current global trends and the future of German-American relations.
Fellowship Structure and Research Design
The fellowship is self-directed and highly flexible. Fellows independently:
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Design their research agenda
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Select destinations and institutions
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Identify and engage key stakeholders
This personalized structure allows for deep immersion, cross-cultural learning, and original analysis, while maintaining close coordination with the Program Director.
Fellowship Funding and Financial Support
Each selected fellow receives a stipend of USD 7,000. The stipend is intended to cover:
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Transatlantic airfare
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Domestic travel during the fellowship
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Accommodation and meals
The fellowship requires a minimum research period of 21 days. American fellows conduct research in Germany, while German fellows undertake research travel in the United States.
Fellowship Timeline and Deliverables
Fellows have up to one year from the date of selection to complete their fellowship travel and research. Key deliverables include:
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A detailed, day-by-day travel and research itinerary approved in advance
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An analytical final report suitable for publication
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A public-facing presentation, either in person or via an online webinar
These outputs ensure both academic rigor and public impact.
Who Is Eligible to Apply
The McCloy Fellowship Program is open to:
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U.S. citizens residing in the United States
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German citizens residing in Germany
Applicants must also:
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Be in the early stages of their professional careers
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Have at least five years of relevant professional experience
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Hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
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Demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing German-American relations
Why the McCloy Fellowship Matters
The program plays a critical role in:
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Strengthening transatlantic understanding and cooperation
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Supporting independent, policy-relevant research
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Developing future leaders in public policy, media, academia, and civil society
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Encouraging dialogue on shared global challenges
It bridges professional practice and international research in a real-world context.
How to Apply
Applications must include the following components:
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A cover letter outlining personal motivation and professional goals
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A three- to five-page project proposal detailing research focus, objectives, methodology, and global relevance
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A current resume or curriculum vitae
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Two letters of recommendation
All materials must be submitted by the official deadline.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the McCloy Fellowship Program is April 24, 2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Common Application Tips
Applicants are advised to:
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Propose a clearly defined and feasible research question
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Demonstrate strong alignment with fellowship themes
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Show evidence of stakeholder engagement and practical relevance
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Clearly articulate the transatlantic value of the project
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Ensure recommendations speak directly to professional readiness
Strong preparation significantly improves selection outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the McCloy Fellowship?
The fellowship requires a minimum of 21 days of international research travel, to be completed within one year of selection.
Can fellows choose their own research topic?
Yes. Fellows independently design their research projects, provided they align with the fellowship’s thematic priorities.
How much funding does the fellowship provide?
Each fellow receives a USD 7,000 stipend to cover travel, accommodation, and related expenses.
Where do fellows conduct their research?
American fellows conduct research in Germany, while German fellows complete their fellowship in the United States.
Is the final report mandatory?
Yes. Fellows must submit an analytical report suitable for publication and share their findings publicly.
Is the fellowship open to students?
No. Applicants must have at least five years of professional experience and a completed bachelor’s degree.
Can the fellowship be extended beyond one year?
No. All fellowship activities must be completed within one year of selection.
Conclusion
The McCloy Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity for emerging American and German professionals to conduct independent, impactful research while strengthening transatlantic ties. Through funding, flexibility, and intellectual rigor, the fellowship cultivates informed leaders committed to addressing the most pressing challenges facing Europe and the United States today.
For more information, visit American Council On Germany.