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Application
About the Program
Responsibilities
Desired Areas of Expertise
Eligibilities
What You Gain
The Rising Experts Program is one of the flagship programs of Young Professionals in Foreign Policy (YPFP). The program develops emerging foreign policy professionals into published analysts and commentators. Through intensive editorial collaboration, you'll produce op-eds and analysis for national and international outlets, building both your bylines and your credibility in your field.
The Rising Experts Program runs for roughly a year, beginning in February 2026. Experts typically dedicate 8-10 hours per month to researching and drafting articles, working with editors through the revision process, and participating in cohort discussions and peer feedback.
This is a part-time, unpaid fellowship designed for working professionals and graduate students who can integrate writing into their existing schedules.
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Publish regularly: Produce at least one article (600 to 1,200 words) every two months in your area of expertise. Articles may take the form of op-eds, analysis pieces, book reviews, or interviews.
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Work with editors: Collaborate with YPFP's editorial team through multiple drafts to strengthen your arguments and sharpen your prose.
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Pitch strategically: Learn best practices from accomplished young writers on how to place your work with foreign policy outlets.
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Engage with your cohort: Provide substantive feedback to your fellow Rising Experts and connect with peers who can be co-authors during or after the program.
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Lead a discussion: Lead a YPFP discussion group meeting on a topic in your expertise area.
Regional:
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Africa
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Europe
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Indo-Pacific
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Latin America
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Middle East
Functional:
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Climate & Energy
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Economics & Development
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Human Rights
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National Security
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Technology
If you don't see your area of expertise listed, we encourage you to propose your own custom track (examples: diplomacy, grand strategy, international law, immigration).
Desired qualifications
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Bachelor's degree
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2+ years of professional experience (current graduate students are eligible)
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Strong background in international relations or foreign policy
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Demonstrated expertise in your chosen focus area through coursework, professional work, or publications
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Exceptional analytical writing ability
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Age range: 20s to mid-30s
What makes candidates stand out?
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Prior publications, especially in your area of expertise
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Direct engagement with your chosen region or issue set (research, work experience, language skills)
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Ability to generate original angles on current foreign policy debates
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Track record of meeting deadlines and incorporating editorial feedback
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Graduate education in your area of expertise
Beyond published bylines, Rising Experts receive:
Editorial mentorship from experienced foreign policy writers
Pitching guidance on how to place your work with major outlets
Professional network of emerging foreign policy leaders across sectors
Platform to establish yourself as a credible voice in your field
Portfolio of polished work demonstrating your analytical capabilities
How to Apply
Applications open November 1, 2025, and close December 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET. We encourage candidates from all geographic regions, including international applicants, to apply.
Required Materials
Cover letter — Explain your interest in the Rising Experts Program, your chosen area of expertise, and how this opportunity aligns with your professional goals. Highlight relevant experience with your focus region or issue set, and describe what perspectives you would bring to foreign policy discourse as well as your planned articles if selected for this program. (Approximately 1-2 pages; maximum 3 pages)
CV or Resume — Include education, work experience, publications (if applicable), language skills, and any regional expertise or specialized training relevant to your proposed focus area. (Maximum 2 pages)
Short-answer responses — Complete the prompts in the application portal. These questions assess your analytical thinking, knowledge of your focus area, and ability to identify compelling topics for commentary.
Writing sample — Submit one non-academic writing sample that demonstrates your ability to analyze foreign policy issues in your chosen focus area. Your sample should showcase clear argumentation, sophisticated analysis, and writing accessible to an educated general audience, not just specialists. (Maximum 3 pages)
Selection Process and Timeline
The Rising Experts Program is highly competitive, selecting 15-20 candidates annually from a national and international applicant pool.
Review Timeline
Late December 2025: Applications reviewed by YPFP editorial team
Early January 2026: Writing assessments conducted for top candidates
Late January 2026: Interviews scheduled with finalists
Mid February 2026: Final selections made and offers extended
Membership Requirement
Upon acceptance, Rising Experts must become dues-paying YPFP members for one year. Annual membership costs $25 and provides access to YPFP's professional network, events, and discussion groups throughout the year.
Questions?
For additional information about the program, eligibility requirements, or the application process, review our FAQ page or contact the program director at gil.guerra@ypfp.org.
We encourage prospective applicants to reach out with questions before the deadline.
FAQ's
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