Overview
The Rangel Graduate Fellowship is a program that aims to attract and prepare outstanding young people for careers in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Department of State in which they can help formulate, represent, and implement U.S. foreign policy. The Rangel Program selects outstanding Rangel Fellows annually in a highly competitive nationwide process and supports them through two years of graduate study, internships, mentoring, and professional development activities. This program encourages the application of members of minority groups historically underrepresented in the Foreign Service, women, and those with financial need. Fellows who successfully complete the program and Foreign Service entry requirements will receive appointments as Foreign Service Officers, in accordance with applicable law and State Department policy.
Rangel Fellows are committed to serving their country and promoting positive change globally. Individuals who have successfully completed the Rangel Program are now making a difference in countries throughout the world, including Colombia, Mexico, Panama, Venezuela, South Africa, Nigeria, Angola, China, Korea, Bangladesh, Spain, and Ireland.
About the U.S. Foreign Service
The U.S. Department of State is the official international relations arm of the President of the United States. Foreign Service Officers in the Department of State are responsible for formulating, implementing, and supporting U.S. foreign policy. Their work includes analyzing political and economic events; improving trade opportunities for U.S. businesses; conducting negotiations; implementing international agreements and treaties; issuing visas; assisting U.S. citizens abroad; educating foreign audiences about American culture and values; and managing an embassy’s operations. Foreign Service Officers are also engaged in foreign policy issues, such as conflict resolution, human rights and democracy, environmental and health issues, nuclear nonproliferation, world trade, and public diplomacy.
A Foreign Service career is much more than just a job; it is a uniquely demanding and rewarding way of life. Foreign Service Officers work in Washington, D.C. and in more than 250 diplomatic posts worldwide. As representatives of the United States government and people, Foreign Service Officers have a direct impact on people’s lives, witness history in the making, and help create and implement U.S. policy. They are challenged every day.
Eligibility
Benefits
- Orientation at Howard University in mid-May.
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Two summer internships: Capitol Hill and Overseas at U.S. EmbassiesMentoring from a Foreign Service Officer
Five-Year Service Requirements
Deadlines
Applications are due in late September annually. See Application Requirements for details.
Upcoming Events
Join Diplomat in Residence Amanda Johnson for an information session on the Pickering and Rangel Fellowship program on Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 6:00 pm Central Time. Register at https://tinyurl.com/y9mo4964.