How to Apply
Applications for the Mansfield Fellowship Program 24th class are closed. Recruitment for the 25th class will begin Summer 2019.
Overview
The application has five components:
- Mansfield Fellowship Program Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Placement Plan
- Agency Authorization Form
- Letters of Recommendation
Application Form
The Mansfield Fellowship Program Application Form (1) is an online application document each interested applicant is required to complete. The form includes the following sections:
- Section 1 – General Information
- Section 2 – Professional Experience
- Section 3 – Japan & Foreign-Culture Experiences
- 3a – Lifestyle Adjustment essay (separate document – one page)
- Section 4 – Personal Statement, Placement Plan & Preferences
- 4a – Personal Statement (separate document – 300 words or less)
- 4b – Placement Plan (separate document – 500 words or less)
- Please note that the Selection Committee reviews the Placement Plan with as much careful consideration in the total application package as the Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendations.
Agency Authorization Form
In addition to the online application form, applicants must secure from their home agencies an Agency Authorization Form. The authorization form is signed by an agency official approving your detail to the Mansfield Foundation if you are selected as a Mansfield Fellow. Applicants from the legislative and judicial branches of government are not required to submit an authorization form. The Agency Authorization Form is accessible via the online portal and should be submitted with the online application.
Letters of Recommendation
Each applicant is also required to receive three letters of recommendation. One recommendation letter must be from the applicant’s current and immediate supervisor. One recommendation letter must be from an additional agency official who is able to comment on the applicant’s placement proposal. Individuals providing reference letters cannot be related to the applicant. When you indicate a recommender on the online system, an email will be automatically generated for that individual. If your recommenders are unable to receive the email or submit the letters, they may send it directly to Stephanie Sanders at ssanders@mansfieldfdn.org. Their name, title, and agency must be clearly listed.
Information Sessions
The Foundation holds regular information sessions providing opportunities for applicants to discuss the program and application process with alumni Fellows and Foundation staff. Information sessions for MFP No. 25 will be held in Summer 2019 at the Mansfield Foundation Washington, D.C. office. Dates and times will be available on this page after June 2019. Call-in options will available for those residing outside Washington, D.C. Additional information sessions can be arranged with specific agencies. For more information, please contact Stephanie Sanders (ssanders@mansfieldfdn.org).
Questions
Please see the Mansfield Fellowship Program FAQ page if you have any questions. Other inquiries should be directed to Stephanie Sanders (ssanders@mansfieldfdn.org).
