New York State Senate 2025–2026 Graduate Fellowship Program

If you're a graduate or post-graduate student passionate about public policy and eager to gain firsthand experience in state governance, the New York State Senate's 2025–2026 Graduate Fellowship Program offers a unique opportunity. This esteemed program provides a platform to engage directly with the legislative process, contributing to meaningful policy development in New York State.

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New York State Senate 2025-2026 Graduate Fellowship Summary

• Location: Albany, New York, USA

• Host Institution: New York State Senate

• Study Level: Graduate and post-graduate

• Target Group: Graduates from accredited universities

• Fields of Focus: Public policy, law, finance, journalism, and related disciplines

• Coverage: $50,000 stipend (paid biweekly); comprehensive health and fringe benefits

• Duration: 9 months (mid-September 2025 to mid-June 2026)

• Application Deadline:.May 3, 2025

• Eligible To: U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have completed graduate studies

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🎓 Fellowship Overview

Since 1965, the New York State Senate Legislative Fellowship has provided graduate students with immersive experiences in state government. Fellows work full-time, engaging in activities such as policy research, legislative tracking, and constituent services. The program offers four distinct fellowship tracks:

1. Legislative Fellowships (11–12 positions): Assigned to a Senate member, responsibilities include in-depth policy research, stakeholder engagement, and legislative tracking. Open to all academic majors.

2. James Biggane Finance Fellowship (1 position):

Placed with the Senate Finance Committee, duties involve budget analysis and participation in budget negotiations. Ideal for those with an interest or background in public finance or economics.

3. Richard Wiebe Public Service Fellowship (1 position):

Located in the Majority Counsel and Program Office, tasks include policy research and legislative drafting. A legal or policy-based background is preferred.

4. Richard Roth Journalism Fellowship (1 position):

Situated in the Majority Press Office, responsibilities encompass writing press releases, attending press events, and managing content for various media platforms.

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Fellowship Benefits 🎁

• Stipend: $50,000 for the 9-month duration, paid biweekly

• Health and Fringe Benefits: Comprehensive coverage, including health, dental, vision, mental health support, and access to the NYS Retirement System

• Professional Development: Opportunities to network with policymakers, legislative staff, and advocacy groups

• Work Experience: Full-time engagement with a minimum of 35 hours per week, providing a realistic insight into legislative operations

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✅ Eligibility Criteria

1. Completion of graduate studies at an accredited university before the fellowship start date

2. Strong personal initiative and ethical standards

3. Demonstrated interest in public service and policy-making

4. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

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📝 Application Procedure

Applicants must submit the following materials to the Office of Student Programs:

1. Completed New York State Senate Fellowship application

2. Official academic transcripts

3. Single-page resume

4. Three confidential letters of reference

5. Writing sample (6–8 pages of original graduate-level coursework)

6. Single-page policy proposal and rebuttal memorandum

7. Single-page personal statement

ℹ️ Additional Information

• Fellows are responsible for securing their own housing in Albany.

• The program does not consider fellows as Senate employees for purposes of accruing leave but does recognize them under specific public officers' laws.

🕵🏻 For more details and to access the application, please visit the [New York State Senate Graduate Fellowships page]

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