Harvard Kennedy School Equity Fellowship 2027: Full-Tuition Master’s Scholarship, Eligibility, Benefits and How to Apply

Overview

The Harvard Kennedy School Equity Fellowship 2027 provides financial assistance and leadership development to eligible students pursuing a master’s degree at Harvard Kennedy School, part of Harvard University in Cambridge, United States. Administered by the Center for Public Leadership, the initiative targets individuals who show leadership potential and a dedication to lessening disparities that impact underserved communities. The programme focuses its efforts on three specific areas, which are the Black and African American community in the United States, the Latino community in the United States, and marginalized populations around the world.

What you get

Selected participants receive a full tuition scholarship for their master’s degree studies at Harvard Kennedy School. Alongside financial support, recipients take part in a structured, yearlong co-curricular leadership development programme that operates separately from the academic credit structure. This experience features leadership seminars, mentorship, experiential learning, an annual retreat, and networking opportunities with peers focused on advancing equity.

Who can apply

Students from all backgrounds are eligible to apply for the fellowship, and applications are particularly encouraged from underrepresented groups. Candidates must demonstrate leadership promise, an active commitment to reducing disparities, and a dedication to societal and community contribution. Applicants are required to select one of the three designated areas of focus when applying.

How to apply

The application process requires completing two distinct steps. First, applicants must submit an admission application to a chosen master’s degree programme at Harvard Kennedy School. Second, candidates must submit the fellowship application through the school’s financial aid application system, ensuring they prepare the required biographical profile and essays.

Key dates

The deadline to submit the Harvard Kennedy School master’s admission application is December 1, 2026, at 12 p.m. noon Eastern Time. The deadline to submit both the CPL Equity Fellowship application and the financial aid application is January 15, 2027, at 12 p.m. noon Eastern Time.