Knauss Marine Policy Fellowships

The Knauss Fellowship, established in 1979, provides a unique educational experience to students interested in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resources and in the national policy decisions affecting those resources. The program matches highly qualified graduate students with 'hosts' in the U.S. Congress or executive branch of government located in the Washington, D.C., area, for a one-year paid fellowship. Fellowships historically run from February 1 to January 31, with the application due to Maryland Sea Grant approximately one year before the fellowship begins. In 2026, the fellowship will run from June 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027, and in 2027, the fellowship will start between February 1, 2027 and June 1, 2027 and run for a year. The award for each fellowship covers salary/stipend for the twelve months and other allowable expenses. Support for Class of 2027 fellows will be $74,700 for salary and fringe costs with an additional $5,000 to cover allowable expenses. Additionally, up to $15,000 for host office travel and up to $2,500 for placement week expenses may be available depending on the year and placement.