Fellowships applications for 2026-2027 will be available in August 2025. 

Fellowship Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Harvard Kennedy School Application Deadline: December 1, 2025

Purpose of the Fellowship

The Commonwealth Fund Fellowship in Health Policy Leadership at Harvard University is designed to prepare physician-leaders who will, over time, improve the capacity of the health care system to promote policies and practices that improve people's access to high quality care.

We seek applications from highly motivated individuals with great potential for leadership and for becoming change agents in health care delivery systems.

 

Eligibility

  • Physicians who have completed residency in the U.S., either BE/BC. Additional experience beyond residency, such as chief residency, is preferred.
  • Experience or interest in advancing systems change to improve the health of all, with emphasis on disadvantaged, vulnerable, and uninsured populations.
  • Strong evidence of leadership experience or potential, especially as related to community efforts, quality improvement, transformation of health care delivery systems, and/or health policy.
  • Intention to pursue a career in policy, public service, and/or academia.
  • U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency.

 

Application Process Overview

Step 1: LEARN

Step 2: GATHER APPLICATION MATERIALS

To apply for the Fellowship, you will need to gather the following for entry into the application form:

  • Essay questions (see sample application)
  • Contact information for three recommenders who can attest to your leadership potential. References will include:
    • Individual from your current employer who has supervised your work
    • A minimum of one academic reference is desirable
    • Individuals who can provide your leadership potential and abilities
  • Sample Fellowship Application (will be available in August)
  • Sample Recommendation Form (will be available in August)
  • Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health MPH Instructions on SOPHAS on-line Application https://sophas.org/
  • Harvard Kennedy School MPA Instructions on-line at https://www.hks.harvard.edu/admissions-aid/masters-program-admissions/how-apply

Step 3: REGISTER TO APPLY

  • Click “Apply” button below
  • Complete Personal Information
  • Review instructions for CFF online application

 

APPLY