The FY2026 Sea Grant Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship, administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), supports graduate students in developing knowledge and skills in national ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resource policies. Named for John A. Knauss, the program funds a one-year fellowship in either the legislative or executive branch of the federal government. The fellowship will commence on February 1, 2026, and conclude by February 28, 2027. Applications are due by February 19, 2025, through eligible Sea Grant programs, and must be validated in Grants.gov by April 16, 2025.

Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program between fall 2024 and February 2025, with a demonstrated interest in marine policy and national decision-making processes. Foreign nationals are eligible, but the number of host offices accepting non-U.S. citizens is limited. Selected fellows must relocate to the Washington, D.C. area and pass federal background checks. Application packages will propose a total funding amount of $95,600, which includes salary, relocation, travel, and other fellowship-related expenses.

Applicants must submit their materials to the Sea Grant program in their state or territory or to an assigned program if their location is not served by Sea Grant. Applications require a comprehensive package including a curriculum vitae, responses to personal and career development prompts, two letters of recommendation, and a state Sea Grant director’s endorsement letter. A written statement from the Sea Grant Fellowship Program Manager is required for applicants referred to a program outside their location.

The selection process includes state-level and national reviews, with evaluation criteria focused on academic and leadership potential, career objectives, and commitment to public service. Scores are based on curriculum vitae, personal statements, recommendations, and overall application cohesion. Finalists will be notified by July 2025 and assigned to either legislative or executive cohorts based on preferences and program priorities.

Awardees will enter cooperative agreements with NOAA, which will administer funds and provide substantial involvement, such as mentoring and hosting fellows. Fellowship funds are restricted from certain uses, including the purchase of land or large equipment. Recipients must adhere to NOAA and federal regulations, including compliance with the Affordable Care Act and Section 508 of the Americans with Disabilities Act for public-facing products.

For additional guidance, applicants should contact the Sea Grant Knauss Fellowship Program Manager or consult resources on the NOAA and Grants.gov websites.