William D. Clarke Sr. Diplomatic Security Fellowship

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Goes By: Clarke DS Fellowship

Be sure to consult the Fellowship Website for complete eligibility and competition requirements.

About this Fellowship

Provides graduate funding to participants as they are prepared academically and professionally to enter the United States Department of State Foreign Service as a Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Special Agent.

Successful candidates are obligated to a minimum of five years of service in an appointment as a DSS Special Agent in the Foreign Service. DSS Special Agents are sworn federal law enforcement officers.

The Fellowship allows seniors and non-enrolled applicants between the ages of 19 and 33 to apply for two years of graduate school funding.

Upon accepting the fellowship, successful candidates will sign a contract that clearly outlines their benefits and responsibilities as a Fellow. Fellows must meet and maintain all Foreign Service entry requirements including security, medical and suitability requirements in order to remain in the program.

In evaluating suitability, the Suitability Review Panel takes into consideration the following factors:

• Misconduct in prior employment, including marginal performance or inability to interact effectively with others.
• Criminal, dishonest, or disgraceful conduct.
• Misrepresentation, including deception or fraud, in the application process.
• Repeated or habitual use to excess of intoxicating beverages affecting the ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the employee’s position.
• Trafficking in or abuse of narcotics or controlled substances.
• Reasonable doubt as to loyalty to the U.S. Government.
• Conduct which clearly shows poor judgment and or lack of discretion which may reasonably affect an individual or the agency’s ability to carry out its responsibilities or mission.
• Financial irresponsibility, including a history of not meeting financial obligations or an inability to satisfy debts.

Important Note: Please be aware that while marijuana may be legal or decriminalized within your home jurisdiction it remains illegal under U.S. federal law. The use, possession, supply, or manufacture of marijuana may preclude you from obtaining the necessary clearances to participate in this program, even if you were initially offered a position.

More information can be found on the Faculty and Career Resources page of the Clarke website.

Award Value

Up to $42,000 annually for two years of grad school, plus 2 internships (one domestic and one international) at the US Department of State.

Eligibility Requirements

Requirements	Details
Year(s) of Application	Senior, Alumni/Non-enrolled
Minimum Grade Point Average	3.2
Citizenship	US Citizen
Campus Nomination Required	No

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Last updated: August 14, 2025

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