Applications are now open for the 2026–2028 FAO Schwarz Fellowship Program, offering exceptional opportunities for recent college graduates to launch impactful careers in social change, equity, and education. This year marks the Fellowship’s 20th anniversary, featuring eight Fellowship positions at six leading nonprofit organizations across the United States.

About the FAO Schwarz Fellowship

The FAO Schwarz Fellowship is a full-time, paid, two-year program designed for new college graduates passionate about social impact and community leadership. Fellows gain hands-on experience in direct service and strategic project work while developing professional and leadership skills through mentoring and training.

The Fellowship empowers young leaders to create lasting change and helps them explore career paths in education, environmental justice, community engagement, and equity.

2026–2028 Host Organizations

The six host organizations selected for the 2026–2028 Fellowship cycle include:

• 826 Boston
• National Audubon Society (Audubon Mid-Atlantic)
• Brooklyn Public Library
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Reading Partners
• The Trustees of Reservations

These organizations operate across multiple cities and focus on diverse missions, including youth literacy, environmental education, public access to the arts, and community development.

Why Apply for the FAO Schwarz Fellowship?

The Fellowship offers a unique blend of experience, learning, and leadership development. Fellows benefit from:

• Paid, full-time positions at high-impact nonprofits
• Opportunities to design and implement direct service and strategic projects
• Professional mentorship and structured training sessions
• Networking with social impact leaders and FAO Schwarz alumni
• A launchpad for a lasting career in nonprofit and community leadership

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the 2026–2028 Fellowship, applicants must:

• Be legally authorized to work in the United States for the full two-year Fellowship term
• Be on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree between November 2025 and Summer 2026
• Demonstrate a commitment to social justice, community service, and leadership development

Application Process

Deadline: February 1, 2026 (9:00 PM ET)

Applicants are encouraged to submit their materials early. Follow these steps to apply:

• Confirm your eligibility.
• Prepare a one-page résumé (PDF) named in this format: FIRST-LAST-RESUME.pdf.
• Review your college’s FAFSA code (not College Board code).
• Preview and prepare answers for the short-answer questions before completing the form.
• Complete the online application form in one sitting and upload your résumé.
• Submit your application before the deadline.
• Applicants will receive a confirmation email after submitting.

Application Timeline

February 1, 2026: Application deadline (9:00 PM ET)

End of February 2026: Semifinalist notifications and interviews

March 2026: Finalist interviews

April 2026: Fellowship offers announced

Candidates can apply for more than one Fellowship position, but must submit separate applications for each host organization.

About the FAO Schwarz Fellowship Program

Founded in honor of Frederick A.O. Schwarz, the Fellowship has supported hundreds of emerging leaders in social impact. Over two decades, it has become a cornerstone program for young professionals committed to creating equitable and sustainable change in their communities.

Fellows work in areas such as education access, environmental justice, youth empowerment, and civic engagement, making measurable contributions that last well beyond the two-year Fellowship period.

How to Apply

To learn more about the Fellowship, review the detailed role descriptions, and access the application form, visit the official website:

Key Details at a Glance

Apply here: Application

For more information: FAO Schwarz Fellowship – Lead the change.

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth