The RWJF Health Policy Fellows program supports RWJF’s vision by creating a highly effective community of health policy leaders committed to advancing health across the country. The program provides mid-career professionals with the nation’s most comprehensive learning experience at the intersection of health, science, and policy in Washington, D.C. We are seeking applicants with deep experience and subject matter expertise as health professionals, behavioral and social scientists, and others with an interest in health and its drivers.

During their placements, fellows will be full-time, contributing participants in the national policymaking process in congressional or executive branch offices of their choosing. The activities during the fellowship—developing legislative proposals; organizing hearings; meeting with constituents; briefing officials on health issues—will advance fellows’ leadership skills in health policy and their ability to influence policymaking to improve health. The National Academy of Medicine (NAM) conducts and administers the fellowship, with funding support from RWJF.

Applicants should be committed to contributing to the health policy field for at least 10 years after the fellowship. The fellowship strongly encourages individuals with diverse backgrounds, ideologies, and perspectives to apply.

Key Dates & Deadlines

• (All in 2025): August 25 (11 a.m. ET), September 10 (2 p.m. ET), September 26 (11 a.m. ET), October 10 (1 p.m. ET), October 29 (3 p.m. ET)
  Optional applicant webinars. Please visit the program’s website for complete details and to register. 
• October 31, 2025 (3 p.m. ET)
  Deadline for receipt of three reference letters.
• November 3, 2025 (3 p.m. ET)
  Deadline for receipt of preliminary applications.
• January 2026*
  Selection and notification of finalists.
• February 2026*
  Deadline for receipt of full applications for finalists.
• March 2026*
  Finalist interviews with advisory board/selection/notification.
• September 1, 2026
  Start of fellowship.

Learn more and/or apply HERE.

Source: RWJF Health Policy Fellows