Applications for the 2024 Excelsior Fellowship are now closed. Applications for the 2025 Fellowship will be due February 15, 2025.
The New York State Excelsior Service Fellowship Program is a funded two‐year fellowship offering talented individuals hands on training and experience in New York State government. Excelsior Fellows work full time at host executive‐branch agencies, advancing the operational aspects of large policy initiatives. After completing the Excelsior Service Fellowship, exceptional fellows may continue to serve New York State. More than 50% of prior classes of Excelsior Fellows were offered permanent positions with the State post-fellowship. In the past, Fellow placements have included the Executive Chamber, Empire State Development Corporation, and the Department of Environmental Conservation.
NYU candidates will be nominated by NYU Law School by early March, and are then interviewed by representatives of the State. Those Fellows who are matched will be notified of their final acceptance by the second week of May (dates subject to change). Candidates are encouraged to note their areas of interest and any preferred placement agencies; however, final placements will be dictated by budget and the needs of the State government. While some opportunities exist in New York City and elsewhere in the state, most agency placements are located in Albany, New York. Fellows with a JD will be placed in legal assignments unless they expressly request otherwise.
Although the Excelsior Fellowship lasts two years, exceptional fellows may continue to serve New York State. More than 50% of the first and second classes of Excelsior Fellows were offered permanent positions with the State post‐fellowship.
Learn more about the NYS Excelsior Service Fellowship Program.