AERA Congressional Fellowship


The call for applications for the AERA 2024–25 Congressional Fellowship Program is now open with instructions for applying and eligibility requirements. Applications are due February 7.

The AERA Congressional Fellowship Program offers a valuable professional development opportunity by embedding high-quality education researchers in congressional offices and reflects AERA’s commitment to expand the reach, accessibility and visibility of education research to policy makers and the public. 

The aim of the program is to provide education researchers with an opportunity to participate first-hand in the policymaking process. Fellows work on the staff of a member of Congress or a congressional committee. The fellowship also provides an opportunity for fellows to contribute their scientific expertise on issues central to the priorities and agendas of members of Congress.

AERA Congressional Fellowship Recipients

The Congressional Fellowship Program brings up to three doctorate-level education researchers to Washington, DC, each year to work closely with policymakers and staff on Capitol Hill. AERA seeks candidates across career stages, areas of research specialization, and work sectors with a solid foundation and accomplishments in research (appropriate to career stage) and interests in policymaking and public service.

AERA Congressional Fellows benefit from a comprehensive two-week orientation as well as professional development and networking opportunities throughout the year. AERA partners with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) that administers these professional development activities to AERA fellows and fellows of other research societies. AERA also provides additional professional development and networking opportunities targeted specifically to education researchers.

Fellowships begin on September 1 and end on August 31 of the following year. All fellowships are located in a congression office in Washington, DC.

As part of the program, Congressional Fellows receive:

  • A 12-month stipend of $70,000 for fellows with 0-7 years of postdoctorate, full-time employment as of September 1; a stipend of $80,000 for fellows with more than 7 years of postdoctorate, full-time employment by September 1.
  • Reimbursement for uncovered health insurance up to $3,500 for the 12-month year.
  • Reimbursement up to $2,500 for professional development and relocation expenses during the fellowship year.
  • Travel, lodging, and registration covered by AERA to attend the AERA Annual Meeting.

View AERA's webinar, "Sharing Education Research on Capitol Hill," here.


2019 AERA Annual Meeting Panel:
Connecting Research to Policy on Capitol Hill