Citizens for Public Leadership (CPL) Fellowship 2026: 10-Month Public Policy Program for Future Leaders (Apply Now)

Citizens for Public Leadership (CPL) has officially opened admissions for its flagship CPL Fellowship 2026. This is a premier, 10-month part-time programme designed to groom the next generation of public policy leaders in India.

The fellowship offers a unique blend of academic rigour and real-world exposure, allowing participants to learn from top experts in economy, politics, and foreign policy while continuing their current work or studies. With a curriculum aimed at building practical skills like negotiation and policy memo writing, this is an essential launchpad for anyone serious about a career in public service. Applications opened in December 2025, so interested candidates should apply immediately.

Fellowship Overview & Key Details

Program Structure: What Will You Learn?

The curriculum is spread across three trimesters and built on six core pillars. It is designed to be flexible yet intensive, ensuring fellows gain competencies that are directly applicable in the policy sector.

• Thought Leadership Sessions: Interactive sessions with national and international experts on economy, urban policy, foreign policy, media, and technology.
• Skillshops: Focused workshops on critical skills such as Negotiation, Design Thinking, Advocacy, Policy Memo Writing, and Data Visualisation.
• Adaptive Leadership Series: Adapted from the Harvard Kennedy School framework, this module uses films like 12 Angry Men and Malcolm X to teach leadership through experiential immersions.
• Policy Conclave: An annual event held in July where fellows engage in high-level discussions with leading policy experts.
• Capstone Project: The program culminates in a 3-month project where fellows work with think tanks or conduct independent research. Past collaborations include the Delhi Government, NSRCEL IIM Bangalore, and Udayan Care.

Eligibility Criteria

CPL is looking for committed individuals who demonstrate a passion for public service. To apply, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: You must be 19 years or older.
• Education: Open to Graduates from any discipline. Final-year undergraduate students are also typically encouraged to apply.
• Citizenship: You must be an Indian citizen.
• Commitment: You must be able to dedicate time to the part-time online sessions (usually held on weekends) and complete the capstone project.

Why Apply?

Beyond the curriculum, the fellowship offers personalized mentorship, including guidance for those wishing to pursue higher education abroad. CPL fellows have successfully secured spots at prestigious institutions like the Harvard Kennedy School, London School of Economics, and Columbia University. Alumni have also gone on to launch their own social enterprises and campaigns.

How to Apply

Admissions are currently open for the 2026 cohort. The selection process is competitive, involving an online application and potentially an interview round.

1. Visit the Website: Go to the official CPL website.
2. Submit Application: Fill out the form with your academic details, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and updated CV.
3. Review & Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further rounds.

Official Application Link: Click Here to Apply for CPL Fellowship 2026