James Madison Graduate Fellowship
Offered by James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation
About This Scholarship
The James Madison Graduate Fellowship is a federally endowed award for current and aspiring secondary school teachers of American history, government, and civics. Created by Congress in 1986 as a living memorial to the fourth president and "Father of the Constitution," the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation funds up to $24,000 toward a master's degree that emphasizes the U.S. Constitution -- typically up to $12,000 per year for up to two years of graduate study.
Fellowships are awarded on a state-by-state basis, with the foundation generally selecting at least one fellow per state and eligible territory annually. Fellows also attend a four-week Summer Institute on the Constitution at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., an intensive residential program on the founding era.
In exchange, fellows commit to teaching American history, government, or civics in grades 7-12 for at least one year per year of fellowship support. The 2027 application is open now with a March 1, 2027 deadline.
Eligibility
- U.S. citizen who is a current secondary teacher of American history, government, or civics -- or a college senior/graduate planning to teach those subjects in grades 7-12
- Hold a bachelor's degree (or receive one by August 31 of the application year)
- Plan to enroll in a qualifying master's program with substantial constitutional coursework
- Commit to teaching American history, government, or civics full-time in grades 7-12 for one year per year of fellowship support
- No application fee
How To Apply
- Complete the online application at jamesmadison.gov before the March 1 deadline, including essays on your teaching goals and the Constitution's role in your planned study
- Submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and your proposed graduate program of study
- If selected, attend the required four-week Summer Institute on the Constitution at Georgetown University
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to already be a teacher?
No. The foundation awards both Junior Fellowships (for college seniors and recent graduates who plan to teach) and Senior Fellowships (for current secondary teachers pursuing a master's part-time).
What's the catch?
Fellows must teach American history, government, or civics in grades 7-12 for at least one year for each year of fellowship support received -- the program exists to put constitutionally literate teachers in classrooms.