The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) Program 2026-2027 is a year-long fellowship managed by RFK Human Rights, designed to empower United States-based undergraduate students in the fields of civic engagement and community organizing. The program provides a $2,000 professional stipend alongside $1,000 in dedicated capstone project funding. Fellows participate in a mandatory summer retreat and monthly coaching sessions to develop a human rights-focused capstone project. Priority is given to students from marginalized communities and those attending Minority Serving Institutions (HBCUs, HSIs, HMSIs). Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited 2 or 4-year program with a graduation date on or after May 2027.
John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship Program 2026-2027 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Organization | Robert F. Kennedy (RFK) Human Rights |
| Fellowship Type | Year-long Leadership Program |
| Total Financial Award | $3,000 ($2k Stipend + $1k Project Fund) |
| Target Audience | US Undergraduate Students |
| Key Requirement | Human Rights Capstone Project |
| Application Deadline | March 1, 2026 |
John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship Program 2026-2027 Details
The John Lewis Young Leaders Program is more than a scholarship; it is a transformative incubator for the next generation of human rights defenders.
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Inspired by the legacy of Congressman John Lewis, the program merges theoretical human rights frameworks with practical, boots-on-the-ground organizing skills. Fellows are not just students; they are active agents of change who receive the institutional backing of RFK Human Rights to tackle social issues within their own campus ecosystems.
Benefits of the John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship Program 2026-2027
Tier 1: Direct Financial Compensation and Project Seed Funding
- $2,000 Professional Stipend: Paid in two equal installments ($1,000 each) across the fall and spring semesters to support the student’s living or professional expenses.
- $1,000 Capstone Fund: Dedicated funding strictly for the execution of the fellow’s community project, covering event costs, materials, and outreach activities.
Tier 2: Immersive Training and Expert Mentorship
- Paid-for Summer Retreat: A 4-day intensive organizing retreat in the summer of 2026, with all travel and lodging expenses covered by the program.
- 1:1 Monthly Coaching: Personalized monthly sessions with RFK Human Rights staff to refine organizing strategies and professional goals.
Tier 3: Networking and Institutional Resources
- Alumni and Professional Network: Lifetime access to a global network of human rights professionals and program alumni.
- Expert Content Library: Access to proprietary workshops and resources on grassroots organizing, advocacy, and social movement building.
Eligibility Requirements for John Lewis Young Leaders Undergraduate Fellowship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must demonstrate a strong motivation to elevate social issues and a commitment to completing a human rights capstone project.
- Study Status: Must be an undergraduate student currently enrolled in a 2-year or 4-year accredited program at a university located in the United States.
- Graduation Timeline: Applicants must be scheduled to graduate on or after May 2027 (ensuring they remain students during the fellowship year).
- Priority Groups: While open to all, priority is given to students from marginalized communities and those attending HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities), HSIs (Hispanic-Serving Institutions), or HMSIs.
How to Apply for John Lewis Young Leaders Undergraduate Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Verify Graduation Date: Confirm that your official graduation date is May 2027 or later to meet the enrollment requirement.
- Draft Capstone Concept: Identify a social issue or human rights concern on your campus or in your local community that you wish to address.
- Submit Online Application: Complete the application form via the RFK Human Rights portal, detailing your organizing experience and vision.
- Deadline Compliance: Ensure all materials are submitted before the hard deadline of March 1, 2026; late submissions are strictly prohibited.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can international students studying in the US apply?
Yes, as long as you are enrolled in an accredited 2 or 4-year university located within the United States.
2. What exactly is a “Capstone Project”?
It is a year-long project where you apply organizing skills to address a specific human rights issue on your campus or in your community, culminating in a final presentation.
3. Is the summer retreat mandatory?
Yes, the 4-day retreat is a core component of the fellowship where vital organizing workshops take place.
4. When is the $2,000 stipend paid?
The stipend is split into two $1,000 installments, one disbursed in the fall semester and the other in the spring.
5. I graduate in December 2026. Am I eligible?
No. Applicants must graduate on or after May 2027 to ensure they are enrolled throughout the full 2026-2027 fellowship cycle.
6. Are all majors welcome to apply?
Yes, the program is open to undergraduate students of any major, provided they have a passion for human rights and civic engagement.
7. What happens during the monthly cohort meetings?
These meetings occur on the 2nd Monday of each month and involve peer-to-peer learning, progress updates, and specialized training sessions.
8. Does the $1,000 project funding go into my personal account?
The $1,000 is specifically designated for events and activities related to your capstone project and must be used for those purposes.
9. What if my university is not an HBCU or HSI?
You are still eligible to apply. While priority is given to those institutions, the program seeks a diverse cohort from all accredited US universities.
10. How much time per week should I dedicate to the fellowship?
While it varies, fellows should expect to balance monthly meetings, 1:1 coaching, and the ongoing execution of their capstone project alongside their studies.
