The application process is a four-month cycle that repeats itself. You may apply at any time and be considered, but we encourage you to spend some time on your application, including having it be reviewed by a peer, and then submit it as early as possible and not wait for any deadlines. Here is the approximate annual calendar:

January Fellowship:
July 15 – Priority deadline for the January Fellowship. Applications are taken year round, but earlier applications tend to be more successful.
July 15 – October 15: English Tests and Interviews conducted.
November 1-30: Most final decisions made this month.
January, First Week: Orientation to Fellowship
January, Second Week: Fellows’ first day at Host Organizations

May Fellowship:
November 1 – Priority deadline for the May Fellowship. Applications are taken year round, but earlier applications tend to be more successful.
November 1 – February 28: English tests and interviews for applicants
March 1-31: Most final decisions made by this month
May, First Week: Orientation to Fellowship
May, Second Week: Fellows’ first day at Host Organizations

September Fellowship:
March 22 – Priority deadline for the September Fellowship. Applications are taken year round, but earlier applications tend to be more successful.
March 22 – June 30: English Tests and Interviews conducted
July 1-31: Most final decisions made by this month
September, First Week: Orientation Week
September, Second Week: Fellows’ first day at Host Organizations

Application Process:

1. Online Application: All applications need to be submitted online. We will not accept applications via email or mail. You will need to create a login and you can save your responses so you can return to the application at any time. The application consists of background information, personal biography, essays, and letters of recommendation.

NOTE: In order to sponsor candidates to come to the United States for one year as a Fellow, we require detailed information about each applicant. The U.S. Government requires much of the information we are asking for in the application. Your responses also facilitate your Host Organization placement. Please answer each question honestly and accurately. It is critical to be honest and complete in your application. If you are found to be dishonest in the application, you will NOT be accepted as a Fellow and you will be sent home if you have been accepted.

2. Letters of Recommendation: Atlas Corps requires two (up to three) letters of recommendation from individuals who know you in a professional capacity and can write about your skills and experiences as well as your potential for success as an Atlas Corps Fellow. You will need to send your request for a letter of recommendation directly through the application system. Your recommender will receive an email that asks for a recommendation. More detailed instructions can be found in the online application form. Recommendation letters should be submitted within two weeks after submitting your application.

3. Review Process: Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee including Atlas Corps staff and nonprofit sector, government, and business leaders from multiple countries. English writing tests and phone interviews will be conducted with semi-finalists. Host Organizations will conduct Skype video interviews with selected finalists. Host Organizations will make their final recommendations to Atlas Corps, and Atlas Corps will notify the selected candidates.

4. Visa Process: After being selected, candidates will go to the U.S. Embassy in their respective countries to apply for a J-1 visa. Atlas Corps will provide support in obtaining this visa.

Questions? Email apply@atlascorps.org