The Alfa Fellowship Program is a distinguished international initiative that each year offers up to 18 accomplished young Americans, Britons, and Germans the opportunity to complete a high-level professional development program in Russia. Over the course of the program, fellows complete work placements at leading institutions, attend professional seminars and receive intensive language training. The Fellowship provides a monthly stipend, accommodation, insurance, all program-related travel costs, language training in Russia, and private tutoring in the U.S., U.K., or Germany.

The program is funded by Alfa-Bank, and is administered in the U.S., U.K., and Germany by Cultural Vistas and in Moscow by the Fund for International Fellowships and Cultural Dialogue.

Benefits

• Round-trip transportation to New York City or London and accommodation (if needed) for selection interviews
• Orientation seminar in Washington, D.C., including speakers, activities, travel, and accommodation
• Program-related transportation between U.S./U.K./Germany and Russia
• Pre-departure and Russia-based language training
• Moscow Seminar Program, including briefings, assignment planning, and excursions
• A generous monthly stipend during the program in Russia
• All program-related travel within Russia
• Accommodation in Moscow
• Limited international health, accident, and liability insurance during the program in Russia

Participant Profile

• Fellows have a demonstrated interest in Russian and European and Eurasian affairs, exceptional academic and professional credentials, proven personal initiative, and clear goals and expectations for their professional assignments.
• Fellows are between the ages of 25 and 35 with graduate degrees and professional experience in business, economics, journalism, law, public policy, or related fields.
• Fellows possess leadership potential and are active in community or public service.
• While Russian language skills vary, most fellows have studied Russian for at least two years at the postsecondary level.

Eligibility Requirements

• U.S., U.K., or German citizen between the ages of 25 and 35 (Russian citizens are ineligible to apply, including individuals who are also citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, or Germany)
• Graduate degree and at least two years of relevant professional experience in business, economics, journalism, law, public policy, or a related field.
  • Candidates without a graduate degree completed or in progress must have an undergraduate degree and approximately 5-6 years of professional experience in their field.