The GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 is accepting applications from individuals interested in artificial intelligence governance, research, and public policy. This three-month paid fellowship will take place in London, United Kingdom, from 7 June to 27 August 2027. Selected fellows will receive a £14,000 salary, travel support, mentorship, and opportunities to work with AI governance experts.
The Centre for the Governance of AI (GovAI) organizes the program to help talented individuals build careers in AI governance. Moreover, applicants from different academic and professional backgrounds can apply, as GovAI does not impose strict degree requirements.
The application deadline is 22 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT.
GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | GovAI UK Summer Fellowship 2027 |
| Organization | Centre for the Governance of AI |
| Host country | United Kingdom |
| Location | London |
| Duration | Three months |
| Starting date | 7 June 2027 |
| Ending date | 27 August 2027 |
| Fellowship tracks | Research Track and Applied Track |
| Salary | £14,000 |
| Additional support | Travel assistance, weekday lunches, mentorship |
| Degree requirements | No strict degree requirements |
| Work arrangement | Full-time, primarily in person |
| Visa sponsorship | Available for temporary work visas |
| Application deadline | 22 November 2026 |
| Official website | https://www.governance.ai/opportunities |
What Is the GovAI Summer Fellowship?
The GovAI Summer Fellowship is a professional development program for people who want to contribute to responsible artificial intelligence governance.
Artificial intelligence is changing how governments, businesses, and societies operate. As these systems become more capable, policymakers face new questions about safety, regulation, economic effects, and international cooperation.
GovAI works to help decision-makers understand these challenges through research and policy analysis.
During the fellowship, participants develop practical skills, receive expert guidance, and connect with professionals working in AI governance.
The program also provides opportunities to explore future careers in research, government, technology policy, and related fields.
GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 Tracks
GovAI offers two fellowship tracks in London. Although both share the same program dates and salary, their activities differ.
1. Research Track
The Research Track suits applicants who want to investigate AI governance questions and produce research or policy analysis.
Each fellow works on an independent project with guidance from a supervisor.
During the first two weeks, participants explore the AI governance field. Afterward, they develop a research proposal with support from their supervisors.
Possible research outputs include:
- Research reports
- Policy papers
- Academic articles
- Opinion articles
- Blog posts
- Other relevant research publications
Fellows also join expert discussions, seminars, workshops, and professional networking activities.
Who should consider this track?
The Research Track may suit researchers, policy analysts, academics, and professionals interested in evidence-based AI governance.
Applicants with backgrounds in economics, computer science, political science, cybersecurity, or public policy may find it particularly relevant.
However, GovAI welcomes other backgrounds when applicants can demonstrate useful skills and strong research potential.
Official Research Track: https://www.governance.ai/post/uk-summer-fellowship-2027-research-track
2. Applied Track
The Applied Track focuses on practical projects outside traditional research.
Instead of developing an independent research paper, fellows work on projects proposed by GovAI or partner organizations.
These projects may involve:
- Communications
- Policy engagement
- Program management
- Research management
- Operations
- Events
- Fundraising
- Public outreach
The Applied Track can suit applicants who want to contribute to AI governance through organizational, communication, or policy-related work.
For example, someone with experience in project management or public communication may bring valuable skills without having a technical AI background.
Participants also attend seminars, expert discussions, and networking events.
Official Applied Track: https://www.governance.ai/post/uk-summer-fellowship-2027-applied-track
GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 Salary and Benefits
Selected fellows receive financial and professional support throughout the program.
£14,000 Fellowship Salary
GovAI provides a salary of £14,000 for the three-month fellowship.
This is a paid professional opportunity rather than a conventional tuition scholarship.
Applicants should remember that the advertised amount is a salary. Therefore, applicable taxes and personal expenses may affect the amount available for living costs.
Travel Support
GovAI provides assistance with travel to London.
However, the official announcement does not specify a universal travel allowance for every fellow.
Selected participants should confirm their individual travel arrangements before booking.
Temporary Work Visa Sponsorship
GovAI can sponsor temporary work visas for successful applicants who need permission to work in the United Kingdom.
Nevertheless, visa processing may require applicants to remain in their country of application for a period.
Candidates should follow the instructions provided by GovAI and the relevant UK immigration authorities.
Mentorship and Professional Development
Fellows receive guidance from experienced professionals in AI governance.
In addition, they participate in seminars, expert question-and-answer sessions, and workshops.
These activities help participants improve their knowledge and develop professional connections.
Weekday Lunches and Office Facilities
GovAI provides lunch on weekdays and workspace at its London office.
However, the organization does not explicitly promise free accommodation. Fellows should therefore plan their housing and personal expenses carefully.
GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 Eligibility Criteria
GovAI welcomes applicants from a broad range of professional and academic backgrounds.
There are no strict degree requirements. Instead, the selection process focuses on relevant skills, professional potential, and motivation.
Applicants may come from fields such as:
- Artificial intelligence and computer science
- Public policy and political science
- Economics
- Cybersecurity
- Biosecurity
- International relations
- Risk management
- Communications and public engagement
- Research and program management
This list is not exhaustive.
Applicants from government, universities, private companies, nonprofit organizations, and other sectors may also qualify.
What Does GovAI Look for in Applicants?
GovAI evaluates several important qualities.
Quality of work: Candidates should demonstrate clear thinking, strong reasoning, and the ability to produce useful work.
Relevant expertise: Applicants should show how their education, experience, or skills can contribute to AI governance.
Good judgment: Successful candidates should understand how to prioritize projects and assess practical challenges.
Teamwork and openness: GovAI values people who accept feedback, communicate thoughtfully, and approach difficult questions with intellectual honesty.
Applicants do not need to match every preferred qualification. However, they should explain how their background connects to the fellowship’s goals.
Can International Applicants Apply?
GovAI welcomes candidates from different backgrounds and can sponsor temporary work visas.
The official UK fellowship announcements do not list a general nationality restriction.
Therefore, international applicants may apply, subject to the program’s selection process and applicable visa requirements.
However, applicants should not assume that visa approval is automatic.
Selected candidates must meet the relevant immigration requirements before joining the fellowship in London.
What Will Fellows Do During the Program?
The GovAI Summer Fellowship combines professional work with structured learning.
Research Track fellows conduct independent research under expert supervision.
Meanwhile, Applied Track fellows contribute to practical projects related to AI governance.
Both tracks offer opportunities to:
- Attend expert seminars
- Develop relevant professional skills
- Participate in discussions about AI policy
- Receive feedback from experienced professionals
- Meet researchers and practitioners
- Explore future career opportunities
These activities help fellows understand the field while developing a stronger professional profile.
GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 Selection Process
GovAI uses a three-stage selection process.
Stage 1: Written Application and Reasoning Assessment
Applicants first submit an online written application.
GovAI then invites selected candidates to complete an automated abstract reasoning assessment.
The assessment takes approximately 20 minutes.
Stage 2: Paid Remote Work Test
Candidates who progress to the second round receive an invitation to complete a paid remote work test.
GovAI expects this stage to take place in January 2027.
The task helps the organization evaluate candidates’ practical abilities.
Stage 3: Interview and Reference Checks
Shortlisted applicants attend remote interviews in February 2027.
GovAI may also contact references as part of the selection process.
The organization expects to announce final decisions in March 2027.
How to Apply for the GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027
Interested candidates should follow these steps.
- Visit the official GovAI opportunities page.
- Review the Research Track and Applied Track descriptions.
- Choose the track that best matches your skills and career goals.
- Open the application link on the relevant official fellowship page.
- Complete the written application carefully.
- Explain your interest in AI governance and relevant experience.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Monitor your email for further instructions.
GovAI may invite selected applicants to complete additional assessments.
Before applying, candidates should review the official instructions for their chosen track.
Important Dates
| Event | Expected date |
|---|---|
| Applications opened | October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 22 November 2026 |
| Remote work tests | January 2027 |
| Interviews and reference checks | February 2027 |
| Final decisions | March 2027 |
| Fellowship starts | 7 June 2027 |
| Fellowship ends | 27 August 2027 |
The application deadline is 23:59 GMT on 22 November 2026.
Tips for a Strong GovAI Fellowship Application
GovAI receives applications from people with different professional backgrounds. Therefore, applicants should focus on demonstrating their individual strengths.
Explain Your Interest in AI Governance
Describe why AI governance matters to you.
For example, you might discuss AI safety, economic impacts, technology regulation, or international cooperation.
Connect your interests to real policy questions rather than relying on general statements.
Demonstrate Relevant Experience
Highlight research, analytical work, technical projects, professional achievements, or other relevant activities.
You do not need experience in every aspect of AI governance.
Instead, explain how your existing skills could support the fellowship.
Choose the Right Track
Applicants interested in research and policy analysis should consider the Research Track.
Meanwhile, those interested in communications, operations, program management, or practical policy work may prefer the Applied Track.
Review both descriptions before choosing.
Prepare for the Selection Stages
Successful applicants may complete a reasoning assessment, paid work test, and interview.
Therefore, candidates should prepare to explain their decisions, communicate clearly, and approach unfamiliar problems thoughtfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 fully funded?
GovAI offers a £14,000 salary, travel support, weekday lunches, and visa sponsorship where needed. However, the official announcement does not promise free accommodation or coverage of every personal expense.
Can applicants without an AI degree apply?
Yes. GovAI has no strict degree requirements and welcomes relevant skills from different academic and professional fields.
Is the fellowship open to international applicants?
GovAI does not list a general nationality restriction for the UK program. It can also sponsor temporary work visas for successful candidates.
How long does the fellowship last?
The program lasts approximately three months, from 7 June to 27 August 2027.
Is the fellowship online?
No. The program is primarily full-time and in person in London. However, GovAI allows certain remote-work arrangements for fellows with children or other caring responsibilities.
What is the difference between the Research and Applied Tracks?
The Research Track focuses on independent research and policy analysis. The Applied Track focuses on practical work such as communications, operations, and program management.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on 22 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT.
Explore More International Research and Fellowship Opportunities
Applicants interested in research-based opportunities can also explore the MIT Summer Research Program. It provides a different route to academic research experience in the United States.
Those interested in emerging technologies may find the Impact AI Fellowship relevant.
For broader international professional development, explore the CrossCulture Programme.
Each program has different eligibility requirements and application procedures. Therefore, applicants should review the official details before applying.
Final Thoughts
The GovAI Summer Fellowship 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for individuals who want to build careers in artificial intelligence governance.
With a £14,000 salary, travel support, expert mentorship, and professional networking, the program combines practical experience with structured learning.
Moreover, its two fellowship tracks allow applicants with different skills to contribute to the field.
Interested candidates should choose the most suitable track, prepare a thoughtful application, and submit it before the deadline.
Application Deadline: 22 November 2026
Official Source and Application: