🇺🇸 Ignite Constitutional Education: James Madison Graduate Fellowship 2026

About the Fellowship

This distinguished award provides up to $24,000 in funding, prorated over the period of study, with a cap of $12,000 per academic year. Funds cover tuition, required fees, books, and even room and board if the recipient must live away from their primary residence

Awardees are also required to complete a four-week Summer Institute on the Constitution held in Washington, D.C., which counts toward graduate credit and deepens understanding of America’s founding documents. 

Benefits You Will Receive

Financial support includes tuition assistance, materials, and living costs as needed. You will join a national community of educators and attend a summer institute with respected constitutional scholars. The fellowship offers both Junior and Senior tracks depending on experience, plus a special award for U.S. veterans. 

Who Is Eligible

U.S. citizens or nationals who hold or plan to complete a bachelor’s degree by August 31 of the application year, and who either teach or intend to teach American history, government, or civics (including constitutional topics) in grades 7–12 are eligible. Applicants are selected through competition within their state of legal residency. 

Junior Fellowships go to college seniors or recent graduates without teaching experience who plan full-time graduate study. Senior Fellowships are for current teachers and may be completed part-time over up to five years. 

Application Timeline & Obligations

Prepare your application online by early March (typically around March 1–9, 2026). Letters of recommendation must be submitted by the same deadline. Final award notifications arrive in late April or May. Awardees must complete their master’s within the prescribed timeframe and fulfill a teaching obligation of one year for each year of funding received—ideally in their state of residency. Failure to meet these requirements may result in repayment.