The Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program at Stanford University is accepting applications for its 2027 fellowship in the United States. This three-week international leadership programme brings together experienced professionals working to strengthen democracy, good governance, economic development and the rule of law.
Organized by Stanford University’s Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law (CDDRL), the fellowship offers an opportunity to learn from leading scholars, exchange professional experiences and connect with leaders from different countries.
The 2027 programme will take place from 18 July to 6 August 2027 at Stanford University in California.
Approximately 28–30 participants are expected to join the programme.
Stanford covers accommodation, meals and transportation during the fellowship. However, selected participants are generally expected to arrange their own round-trip airfare. Limited financial assistance may be available for fellows who cannot afford travel expenses.
The application deadline is 12 January 2027 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
Interested applicants can review the official requirements and submit their applications through the Stanford Fisher Family Summer Fellows application page.
Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Stanford University |
| Organizing Center | Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law |
| Institute | Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies |
| Country | United States |
| Location | Stanford, California |
| Programme | Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program on Democracy and Development |
| Duration | Three weeks |
| Dates | 18 July–6 August 2027 |
| Expected Participants | Approximately 28–30 |
| Target Audience | Mid-career professionals and leaders |
| Minimum Age | 28 years |
| Professional Experience | At least 10–12 years |
| Academic Degree | Not strictly mandatory |
| Language | English |
| Accommodation | Covered by Stanford |
| Meals | Covered by Stanford |
| Transportation During Programme | Covered by Stanford |
| International Airfare | Generally participant-funded |
| Travel Assistance | Limited, need-based |
| Application Deadline | 12 January 2027 |
| Application Method | Online through SlideRoom |
What Is the Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program?
The Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program is an international professional training initiative for people working to improve democratic institutions, public accountability and development in their countries.
It is not a traditional academic fellowship for university students.
Instead, Stanford selects experienced practitioners who have already made meaningful contributions through their professional work.
Participants come from backgrounds such as public policy, law, civil society, journalism, business and international development.
The programme combines academic learning with practical discussions.
Fellows explore how democratic institutions function, how governments implement reforms and how societies respond to political and economic challenges.
They also share experiences from their home countries.
This international exchange is one of the programme’s most important features.
About Stanford University and CDDRL
Stanford University is a leading research university located in California, United States.
The fellowship is organized through the Center on Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law, commonly known as CDDRL.
The center operates within Stanford’s Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies.
CDDRL studies the relationship between democratic governance, economic development, public institutions and legal systems.
Its work brings together academic research and practical policy experience.
The center also engages with policymakers, civil society leaders and professionals working in countries facing political and institutional challenges.
The Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program forms part of this broader mission.
History of the Fellowship
The programme began in 2005.
It was previously known as the Draper Hills Summer Fellows Program.
In 2023, the programme was renamed the Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program following an endowment gift from Stanford alumni Sakurako and William Fisher.
The fellowship continues to support leaders working to strengthen democratic institutions and development.
Its alumni network includes hundreds of professionals from countries around the world.
Former participants have worked as lawyers, judges, journalists, public officials, entrepreneurs, researchers and civil society leaders.
Stanford Summer Fellowship Benefits
Selected participants receive several important benefits.
Accommodation at Stanford University
Stanford covers accommodation during the programme.
Fellows live on campus, allowing them to participate fully in academic and networking activities.
Meals During the Programme
The university provides meals for participants during the fellowship.
Transportation During the Programme
Stanford covers transportation costs associated with the programme.
This benefit should not be confused with international airfare.
Academic Training
Fellows participate in sessions led by Stanford faculty and other experts.
Professional Networking
Participants connect with professionals working in democracy, development and public policy.
International Leadership Exposure
The programme creates opportunities to learn from people addressing similar challenges in different countries.
Alumni Network
Participants become part of an international network of former fellows.
Limited Travel Assistance
Stanford maintains a small fund for selected fellows who cannot afford travel expenses.
However, this support is limited and not guaranteed.
Is the Stanford Fisher Family Fellowship Fully Funded?
The programme provides substantial financial support, but it is important to explain the funding accurately.
Stanford covers accommodation, meals and transportation during the programme.
However, participants are generally expected to pay for their own round-trip airfare.
The university may provide partial travel assistance to fellows with demonstrated financial need.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that every selected participant will receive a fully funded international flight.
The official programme does not advertise a universal monthly stipend.
Applicants should also budget for expenses that Stanford does not explicitly agree to cover.
Who Can Apply for the Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program?
Stanford has established specific eligibility requirements.
1. Mid-Career Professional Experience
Applicants must have at least 10–12 years of relevant professional experience.
Candidates with more extensive experience may be particularly competitive.
2. Minimum Age
Applicants must be at least 28 years old when the programme begins in July 2027.
3. Relevant Professional Work
Candidates must be actively involved in democracy, development or the rule of law.
4. Leadership Responsibilities
Applicants should hold influential roles in their organizations or professional sectors.
5. Eligible Country of Residence
Candidates should generally come from and reside in countries where democratic institutions are not firmly established.
Exceptions may be considered for people displaced by war or conflict.
6. English Language Skills
Participants must have strong written and spoken English.
The academic sessions, readings and presentations are conducted in English.
7. Full Programme Availability
Applicants must be available for the entire three-week programme.
8. University Enrollment Restrictions
Candidates currently enrolled in full-time university degree programmes are not eligible.
9. Academic Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree is common among participants but is not an absolute admission requirement.
Stanford places greater emphasis on professional experience and leadership achievements.
Which Professionals Are Eligible?
The programme welcomes applicants from several professional backgrounds.
Civil Society Leaders
Individuals leading nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups and community initiatives may apply.
Public Policy Professionals
Applicants involved in policy development, governance or institutional reform may qualify.
Lawyers and Legal Professionals
Professionals working on justice, constitutional law and legal reform may be suitable candidates.
Journalists and Media Professionals
Journalists working on accountability, public-interest reporting and democratic institutions may be eligible.
Academics and Researchers
Researchers may apply if they are actively involved in relevant practical work.
Social Entrepreneurs
Individuals developing initiatives that address social and development challenges may qualify.
Business Leaders
Entrepreneurs and business professionals contributing to economic and institutional development may be considered.
Government Professionals
Public officials working on governance, development and reform may be eligible.
The central requirement is meaningful professional involvement in the programme’s subject areas.
Who Is Not Eligible?
Stanford identifies several categories of applicants who do not meet its selection criteria.
These include:
- Applicants younger than 28.
- People with insufficient professional experience.
- Full-time university degree students.
- Applicants without relevant professional involvement.
- Candidates who cannot participate for the entire programme.
- Applicants from countries where democratic institutions are well established, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan and European Union member states.
Candidates should carefully review the official criteria before applying.
Is IELTS Required?
Stanford requires strong English proficiency.
However, the official fellowship application guidelines do not establish a universal IELTS or TOEFL score requirement.
Applicants must demonstrate their ability to understand academic readings, participate in discussions and communicate effectively.
They must also deliver a short presentation during the programme.
Therefore, practical English proficiency is essential even without a mandatory standardized test score.
Stanford Fellowship Programme Structure
The fellowship includes several learning formats.
Academic Sessions
Participants attend lectures and discussions led by Stanford faculty.
Topics include democratic institutions, political development, legal systems and economic reform.
Case Study Workshops
Fellows examine real examples of policy decisions and institutional reforms.
These sessions encourage participants to consider how leaders respond to political, social and administrative challenges.
Leadership Presentations
Each fellow prepares a short TED-style presentation about their work and experiences.
The presentation provides an opportunity to explain personal motivation, professional achievements and lessons learned.
Guest Lectures
Stanford invites experienced professionals from public service, research, business and other sectors.
These sessions provide additional perspectives on leadership and development.
Subjects Covered During the Fellowship
The programme explores topics relevant to democratic development and institutional reform.
Examples include:
- Democratic transitions.
- Good governance.
- Political development.
- Public administration.
- Rule of law.
- Economic development.
- Administrative law.
- Transitional justice.
- Institutional accountability.
- Food security.
- Global health policy.
- Public leadership.
The exact curriculum may vary between programme years.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare several materials.
Updated Resume or CV
The CV must be written in English.
Stanford accepts documents between one and three pages.
The file must be submitted in PDF or Microsoft Word format.
Applicants should include professional experience, educational qualifications, achievements and relevant publications.
Application Essays
Candidates must answer questions about their professional work, motivation, leadership experience and future goals.
Stanford provides approximate word limits for individual questions.
Applicants should follow the instructions shown in the online form.
Short Video
Applicants must prepare a video of no more than two minutes.
The video should explain why they deserve to be selected and why the programme is important at this stage of their careers.
Recommendation Letters
Applicants must arrange at least two and no more than three professional recommendation letters.
At least one should normally come from their current supervisor.
Alternative professional references are permitted for founders and individuals without a conventional supervisor.
Financial Information
Applicants must provide information relevant to programme costs and possible travel assistance.
English Language Information
The application also includes questions about English proficiency.
How to Apply for Stanford Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program 2027
Applications are submitted online through SlideRoom.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Open the Stanford fellowship application page.
Step 2: Review the Eligibility Criteria
Confirm that you meet the age, experience, professional and country requirements.
Step 3: Open the Application Portal
Follow the official SlideRoom application link.
Step 4: Create an Account
Register using an active email address.
Step 5: Enter Personal Information
Complete the required personal and contact details.
Step 6: Provide Professional Information
Describe your current employment, leadership role and experience.
Step 7: Upload Your CV
Submit a one-to-three-page CV in the accepted format.
Step 8: Complete the Essays
Answer the questions clearly and provide specific examples.
Step 9: Upload Your Video
Prepare a short introduction explaining your motivation and professional impact.
Step 10: Add Your Recommenders
Provide the names and contact details of two or three professional references.
Step 11: Complete the Financial Section
Provide the requested information about your ability to contribute to travel costs.
Step 12: Review the Application
Check your essays, documents and contact information.
Step 13: Submit Before the Deadline
Complete the application by 12 January 2027 at 11:59 p.m. PST.
Step 14: Confirm Recommendation Letters
Ensure at least two recommendation letters reach Stanford before the deadline.
Official application portal: Stanford CDDRL SlideRoom
Application Deadline and Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 12 January 2027 |
| Selection Notifications | By April 2027 |
| Fellowship Begins | 18 July 2027 |
| Fellowship Ends | 6 August 2027 |
Stanford requires participants to attend the complete programme.
Applicants should arrange leave from their professional responsibilities before accepting an offer.
Selection Process
The programme is competitive.
Stanford receives applications from experienced professionals working across different countries and sectors.
The selection committee considers several factors.
Professional Achievements
Applicants should demonstrate meaningful contributions to their organizations or communities.
Leadership Potential
The committee looks for candidates who can make further contributions after the fellowship.
Relevant Experience
Applicants must have substantial experience in democracy, development or the rule of law.
Personal Motivation
The essays and video should explain why the programme matters to the applicant.
Communication Skills
Strong English communication is necessary for participation.
Recommendations
Professional references should provide evidence of the applicant’s achievements and potential.
Contribution to the Fellowship
Stanford values participants who can share useful experiences with other fellows.
Tips for a Strong Application
Explain Your Professional Impact
Describe concrete achievements rather than simply listing job responsibilities.
Demonstrate Leadership
Show how you have influenced decisions, organizations or communities.
Connect Your Experience to the Programme
Explain how Stanford’s training relates to your current work.
Prepare Thoughtful Essays
Use specific examples and avoid generic statements.
Record a Clear Video
Speak naturally and explain why this is the right time for the fellowship.
Select Suitable Recommenders
Choose professional contacts who understand your work.
Apply Early
Give your recommenders enough time to submit their letters.
Review the Financial Requirements
Consider international travel expenses and available support.
Why This Fellowship Is Valuable
The Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program offers benefits beyond academic instruction.
Participants can develop a broader understanding of governance and institutional reform.
They also learn from professionals facing different political and development challenges.
The international network may support future cooperation, knowledge sharing and professional relationships.
Moreover, the programme provides an opportunity to reflect on leadership approaches and practical strategies for institutional change.
For experienced professionals, this combination of academic training and international exchange can be particularly useful.
Other International Fellowships to Explore
Professionals interested in international leadership and policy can also explore the Yale World Fellows Program, which brings emerging leaders from different countries together for professional and academic exchange.
Another option is the CrossCulture Programme, which supports international cooperation and professional exchange.
Researchers and policy professionals may also find the British Academy International Fellowships relevant, although those awards have different academic eligibility requirements.
Applicants should compare each programme’s target audience, funding and selection criteria before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program?
It is a three-week professional leadership programme hosted by Stanford University.
Is the Stanford fellowship open for 2027?
Yes. Applications for the 2027 programme are open.
What is the application deadline?
12 January 2027 at 11:59 p.m. PST.
Where does the programme take place?
Stanford University, California, United States.
How long is the programme?
Three weeks.
When does it start?
18 July 2027.
When does it end?
6 August 2027.
How many fellows are selected?
Approximately 28–30 participants.
Is the programme fully funded?
Stanford covers accommodation, meals and programme transportation, but international airfare is generally the participant’s responsibility.
Is travel funding available?
Limited need-based assistance may be available.
Is accommodation provided?
Yes.
Are meals provided?
Yes.
Is there a monthly stipend?
The official programme information does not advertise a universal monthly stipend.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes, if they meet the programme’s country, residence and professional eligibility requirements.
What is the minimum age?
28 years.
How much professional experience is required?
At least 10–12 years.
Can university students apply?
Full-time degree students are not eligible.
Is a bachelor’s degree compulsory?
No. Stanford does not make it an absolute requirement.
Is IELTS required?
The official guidelines do not specify a universal IELTS score requirement.
Is English important?
Yes. The programme is conducted in English.
Are recommendation letters required?
Yes. At least two professional letters are necessary.
Is a video required?
Yes. Applicants must submit a video of no more than two minutes.
Can fellows bring their families?
Stanford does not provide accommodation or funding for accompanying family members.
When will applicants receive results?
By April 2027.
How can candidates apply?
Through the official Stanford SlideRoom application portal.
Final Thoughts
The Stanford Fisher Family Summer Fellows Program 2027 is an important opportunity for experienced professionals working in democracy, development and the rule of law.
The programme brings together international leaders for three weeks of academic training, practical discussions and professional networking.
Stanford covers accommodation, meals and transportation during the fellowship. Limited travel assistance may also be available.
However, applicants should not assume that international airfare is automatically funded.
The fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals with substantial experience and demonstrated leadership achievements.
Eligible applicants should prepare their CV, essays, video and recommendation letters well before the deadline.
Application Deadline: 12 January 2027
Official Programme: Stanford Fisher Family Summer Fellows
Eligibility and Application: Apply Through Stanford CDDRL
Online Application: Stanford SlideRoom
Pathfinderly is an independent opportunities information website and is not affiliated with Stanford University. Applicants should verify all programme details and application instructions through Stanford’s official website before applying.