International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027-2028 ($110,000 stipend)

Overview

The International Affairs Fellowship (IAF) in Canada 2027-2028, sponsored by Power Corporation of Canada, was launched in 2016. It aims to strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between rising generations of leaders and thinkers in the United States and Canada. The programme lets mid-career U.S. professionals spend six to twelve months at a Canadian institution to deepen their knowledge of Canada. Professionals from academia, business, government, journalism, NGOs and think tanks are encouraged to apply, and prior experience working in or writing about Canada is not required.

What you get

The stipend is $110,000 for twelve months, or a prorated amount for a shorter stay, plus a modest travel allowance. Fellows are independent contractors rather than employees of CFR and are not eligible for employment benefits, including health insurance. No indirect costs can be deducted from the stipend.

CFR helps fellows find a host organization that matches their proposed work in Canada, but placements are made at the host institution's discretion and cannot be guaranteed. The fellowship is a full-time, in-person experience, and fellows should expect to work on-site with their host at least four days per week.

Who can apply

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and mid-career professionals with a strong record of professional achievement. They need a demonstrated commitment to a career in foreign policy and an interest in U.S.-Canada relations.

Requirements

Applicants must hold at least a bachelor's degree and have a U.S. passport valid through six months after the fellowship ends. Selection weighs scholarly qualifications or professional experience, the merits and feasibility of a research proposal on some aspect of U.S.-Canada relations, personal qualities that promote cross-cultural communication and cooperation, and the contribution the fellowship will make to the applicant's career.

How to apply

Applicants apply online with basic biographical, educational and employment information, a project proposal with proposed placements, and two letters of support.

Key dates

Applications are open from September 8 to October 30, 2026 for the 2027-28 cycle. Awardees are notified by spring 2027.