Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 USA (Fully Funded)

Organiser	Running Start
Host Country	USA
Location	Washington, D.C.
Dates	September – November 2026
Deadline	15th March 2026
Funding	Fully Funded
Application Fee	None
Eligibility	Applicants aged 18-25 interested in politics

The 2026 Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship offers students a fully funded chance to gain hands-on political experience in the United States. If you are between 18 and 25 years old and interested in politics, this internship will place you directly in the office of a U.S. Senator or House Representative either on Capitol Hill or in a district office. Along with a $1,000 stipend, your travel and housing expenses will be covered, and you will attend a comprehensive in-person training in Washington, D.C. This is an ideal opportunity to bridge academic knowledge and political practice while building a valuable network within U.S. government circles. Apply by March 15, 2026, to take part in this unique fellowship.

Details About Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 USA (Fully Funded)

• Host Country: USA
• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Duration: Fall 2026 semester (September – November)
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Application Deadline: 15th March 2026

About Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 USA (Fully Funded)

This fellowship is designed to provide young women with direct experience working in the U.S. Congress. By interning for a Member of Congress, you will learn how elected officials serve their constituents and how political campaigns operate. The program is organized by Running Start, an organization dedicated to preparing young women for political leadership, in partnership with Walmart. Participants will also engage in leadership workshops and a campaign simulation to develop practical skills.

Financial Benefits

• A $1,000 stipend to support your fellowship experience.
• Housing costs covered for the duration of the program.
• Travel expenses to and from Washington, D.C. are fully paid.
• All expenses related to the in-person training intensive in Washington, D.C. are covered.

What You Will Do As a Participant

• Work closely with a U.S. Senator or House Representative in their Capitol Hill or district office.
• Experience constituent services firsthand to understand how Congress supports community needs.
• Spend three days on Capitol Hill building connections with political leaders and influencers.
• Participate in political leadership workshops alongside a diverse group of women leaders.
• Engage in a simulated campaign to gain practical skills in political campaigning and governance.

Eligibility Criteria

• Between 18 and 25 years old at the time of application.
• Interest in politics, public policy, and public service; no prior professional experience required.
• Eager to learn how Members of Congress interact with their constituencies.
• Motivated to understand high-level government leadership and campaigning.
• Ready to engage with a diverse and ideologically inclusive group of women leaders.

Required Documents

• A one-page resume detailing your academic and extracurricular background.
• A one-page writing sample answering: “What is an issue in your community that you would like to solve? How would you implement your solution?”

How to Apply for the Running Start/Walmart Congressional Fellowship 2026 USA (Fully Funded)?

To submit your application, visit the official Running Start website. There is no application fee. Ensure you prepare your resume and writing sample carefully to strengthen your application. The deadline for all submissions is March 15, 2026. Early application is advised because of the competitive nature of the fellowship.

This fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the workings of U.S. government while developing leadership skills and connections that can propel your career in politics or public service. If you meet the criteria and are passionate about making a difference, consider applying before the deadline.