James Madison Graduate Fellowship 2026, USA
Description
The 2026 James Madison Graduate Fellowship Application is now open, offering a prestigious opportunity for future and current secondary school teachers of American history, civics, or government. Created by Congress, the fellowship honors James Madison’s enduring legacy by funding graduate education that focuses on the Constitution—its origins, principles, and continuing development.
Designed to strengthen civic education in the United States, this fellowship supports both aspiring and experienced teachers by equipping them with deeper constitutional knowledge. With a financial award of up to $24,000, fellows also gain access to a powerful professional network and an intensive Summer Institute on the U.S. Constitution.
Degree Level
Eligible Degrees and Required Constitutional Focus
The fellowship supports graduate degrees that concentrate on constitutional studies, including:
- MA in American history, political science, or government
- MAT in history or political science (with a constitutional focus)
- MEd, MA, or MS in Education with a concentration in U.S. government or history
At least 12 semester credits (or 18 quarter credits) must focus on the U.S. Constitution, including six credits from the Summer Institute.
Available Subjects
Following subjects are available to study under this scholarship program.
- Education
- Governance
- Political Science
- American Studies
Benefits
The fellowship provides up to $24,000, disbursed across the minimum number of credits required for the degree. These funds cover:
- Tuition
- Required fees and books
- Room and board (if necessary due to relocation for studies)
One of the most unique features is the Summer Institute on the Constitution, a four-week, six-credit residential program held in Washington, D.C., taught by leading constitutional scholars. Fellows must attend and live on campus during this period, which enhances learning and promotes valuable networking among peers.
Eligible Nationalities
Only domestic students can apply for this scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria
This fellowship is ideal for U.S. citizens who are committed to teaching in secondary schools (grades 7–12) and want to specialize in American history, government, or civics. Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced teacher, the James Madison Fellowship has options tailored to your career stage:
- Junior Fellowships for recent graduates planning to teach.
- Senior Fellowships for current teachers pursuing graduate studies part-time.
- Admiral Paul A. Yost, Jr.-James Madison Fellowship for qualified applicants with U.S. military service.
All applicants must plan to or currently teach one of the qualifying subjects at the secondary level and must commit to teaching for one full academic year for each year of fellowship support received.
Application Procedure
Applicants compete only within their state of legal residence. Each application is evaluated based on academic achievement, civic engagement, teaching plans, and commitment to constitutional education. Importantly, artificial intelligence tools and plagiarism are strictly prohibited in the application process. All submissions are screened to ensure originality.
The program does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, or disability. The final selection is made by a committee of educators and scholars committed to James Madison’s ideals.
FAQs
Q1: What is the deadline for the 2026 James Madison Fellowship Application?
The official deadline typically falls in March each year. Exact dates will be posted on the James Madison Fellowship website.
Q2: Can I choose any university for my graduate degree?
Yes, as long as the university is accredited and the program includes the required constitutional coursework (at least 12 semester credits).
Q3: What happens if I don’t complete my teaching obligation?
Failure to complete the teaching requirement or attend the Summer Institute will result in forfeiture of the award, and recipients will be required to repay all funds with applicable federal interest.
Conclusion
The James Madison Fellowship 2026 offers a unique chance for educators to deepen their understanding of the U.S. Constitution and bring that knowledge back to the classroom. Whether you're just beginning your teaching journey or are already shaping young minds, this fellowship is a powerful tool to further your career and support the nation’s democratic values. Apply today and become a guardian of constitutional education.
