Frequently Asked Questions about AIF

How do I apply?
Applications open approximately seven months before the fellowship and remain open for about three months. All responses must fit within the minimum and maximum word count guidelines, 150-250 words per response. Applications cannot be considered if they are incomplete.

Can I save my application and return to it later?
Yes. To do so, you must click the "Save and Continue" button at the bottom of the last page you have completed. To successfully return to your application later, you will need to use the original link, as well as the same device and browser.

We recommend that you PREVIEW THE APPLICATION QUESTIONS HERE before opening the online application form so that you can prepare materials and responses in advance and complete the online application in one sitting.

How much is tuition and what does it cover?
Tuition for the week-long program is $5,000. This includes five full days of seminars with senior foreign policy experts, experiential leadership and communication workshops, excursions, and two daily meals (breakfast and lunch). Tuition does not include transportation, lodging, or visa expenses, which are the responsibility of the participant.

Is there any financial assistance available?
Extremely limited tuition assistance may be available for an outstanding candidate from the not-for-profit sector, usually from a lower-income country, who is unable to bear the tuition cost or obtain financial support from his or her employers and/or affiliated institutions. Please note that scholarship funding will only offset the AIF tuition fee. Participants are responsible for all other expenses, including transportation, lodging, and visa fees.

How do I apply for financial assistance?
To apply for tuition assistance, complete the related questions at the end of the online AIF application form.

Will CSIS assist in the visa application process?
Participants are responsible for applying for a visa in time to attend the program. CSIS will provide a letter of invitation but is unable to affect the visa process or to sponsor or pay for visas or associated costs.

Requirements and timelines for visas for the United States are subject to change. Please check requirements and appointment availability for a tourist visa to the U.S. from your country in advance. You may wish to schedule an appointment before submitting an application or receiving an acceptance if the wait times are longer than three months.

Am I qualified?
See if you are a qualified candidate for AIF by reviewing the criteria for applicants:

  • Academic background: Completion of university degree is generally required, with an advanced degree preferred.
  • Professional background: Candidates’ experience should demonstrate significant professional accomplishments and leadership experiences that show commitment to positive impact.
  • Leadership potential: AIF participants must be knowledgeable, passionate, and ethical leaders who are driven to excel in their respective fields. They should exhibit exceptional leadership potential, either through experience, promotion, community action, or as witnessed by peers and superiors, and should be able to express how the AIF program will benefit them as future leaders.
  • English proficiency: Due to the interactive and collaborative nature of AIF, it is essential for each candidate to be proficient in both written and conversational English.

Where can I find more information about the program? Contact Barbara Petzen, Senior Mentor for Executive Education, or Trevor Allred, Learning and Development Associate, for more information.