Applying to be a Fellow

Key points

  • The Presidential Management Fellows (PMF) program trains professionals committed to a career in public health policy, leadership, and management.
  • The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) facilitates the application process each year.

Opportunities & Updates

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) application period for the class of 2024 is closed. For questions regarding the program, visit the PMF website.

Overview

The application process is highly selective and requires a resume, an online assessment, and short essays. Applicants go through a rigorous assessment and selection process that measures writing, interpersonal, analytic, and leadership skills. Potential fellows should demonstrate:

  • A wide range and quality of accomplishments.
  • Capacity for leadership.
  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills.
  • A commitment to excellence in the leadership and management of public policies and programs.

Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to application deadlines and to spend time preparing for each step of the application process.

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on satisfying one of the following options:

  • Completion of advanced degree requirements by August 31st of the following year of the annual application.
  • Completion of an advanced degree from a qualifying college or university during the previous two years from the opening date of the PMF Program's annual application announcement.

Applicants must:

  • Be ready to graduate or be a recent graduate within two years of earning a master's, law, or doctoral degree from any academic discipline.
  • Display a strong interest and commitment to a career in public health policy, leadership, and management.

Visit the Presidential Management Fellows program eligibility page for more information about requirements.

How to apply

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) facilitates the application process each year. Applicants should visit the PMF application process page for detailed instructions about the application process and to apply.

Key Application Dates

September
  • U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Fellowship application period opens 12:00 p.m. (ET)
September
  • OPM Fellowship application period closes 12:00 p.m. (ET)
Approximately 6 weeks after closing
  • OPM announces the finalists for the PMF Class of 2024
November - December
  • OPM's selected finalists may apply to CDC PMF host site positions
2025
  • PMF class assignments begin