Many people send poor applications for fellowships because they lack the skill to write effective letters of intent. A well-written letter makes all the difference between acceptance and rejection. The right words can open doors to life-changing opportunities that boost your career and help you grow as a person.
Want to know how to create letters of intent that get noticed by fellowship committees? This guide shares fifteen examples that showcase different approaches to help you craft the perfect letter for your next application.
Sample Letters of Intent for Fellowship
These letters will give you the tools you need to make your fellowship application stand out.
1. Medical Research Fellowship
January 15, 2025
Dr. Sarah Johnson
Fellowship Selection Committee
National Medical Research Institute
500 Science Drive
Boston, MA 02115
Subject: Letter of Intent for the Advanced Cardiovascular Research Fellowship
Dear Dr. Johnson and Selection Committee Members,
My name is Maria Rodriguez, MD, a third-year cardiology fellow at University Hospital with a strong commitment to advancing cardiovascular research. I wish to express my intent to apply for the Advanced Cardiovascular Research Fellowship at the National Medical Research Institute starting September 2025.
My research focuses on novel biomarkers for early detection of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. During my residency and fellowship training, I have published six peer-reviewed articles on this topic and presented my findings at the American Heart Association conference. My current project examining the relationship between inflammatory markers and diastolic dysfunction shows promising results that could lead to earlier intervention strategies.
The exceptional mentorship and cutting-edge research facilities at your institute perfectly align with my career goals of becoming an independent investigator in cardiovascular medicine. Your recent work on cardiac remodeling particularly resonates with my research interests, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to this important field under your guidance.
My clinical background combined with research experience positions me to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit patients. If accepted, I plan to expand my current work while developing new skills in advanced imaging techniques and molecular cardiology through your program.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and career goals align with the fellowship program.
Sincerely,
Maria Rodriguez, MD
University Hospital
Department of Cardiology
300 Medical Center Blvd.
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: (312) 555-8976
Email: m.rodriguez@universityhospital.org
2. Environmental Conservation Fellowship
February 3, 2025
Ms. Rebecca Thomas
Program Director
Global Conservation Initiative
1250 Wilderness Road
Portland, OR 97204
Subject: Application for Field Research Fellowship in Marine Conservation
Dear Ms. Thomas,
As a marine biologist with five years of field experience studying coral reef ecosystems, I am writing to apply for the Field Research Fellowship in Marine Conservation offered by the Global Conservation Initiative.
My passion for marine conservation began during my undergraduate studies when I participated in a coral restoration project in the Florida Keys. This experience inspired me to pursue graduate studies in Marine Biology at Pacific University, where I completed my thesis on the impact of rising sea temperatures on coral bleaching events. Since graduating, I have worked with several conservation organizations documenting reef health across Southeast Asia and developing community-based conservation programs.
The Global Conservation Initiative’s approach to combining scientific research with community engagement mirrors my own philosophy about effective conservation. Your recent projects on sustainable fishing practices have been groundbreaking, and I am particularly interested in contributing to your upcoming work in the Coral Triangle.
My technical skills include advanced SCUBA certification, experience with underwater research methodologies, data analysis using R and Python, and GIS mapping. Additionally, I have developed strong communication skills through working with local communities and presenting at scientific conferences.
This fellowship would enable me to apply my expertise in coral ecology while gaining valuable experience in policy development—an area I hope to grow in professionally. I am ready to relocate and commit fully to field assignments as needed for the duration of the fellowship.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to discuss how my background and goals align with your organization’s mission.
With appreciation,
David Chen, M.S.
Current Address:
735 Ocean View Apartment 4B
San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: (619) 555-3421
Email: dchen.marine@email.com
3. Educational Leadership Fellowship
March 10, 2025
Dr. Michael Williams
Director of Fellowship Programs
Center for Educational Leadership
200 Academy Lane
Atlanta, GA 30303
Subject: Letter of Intent for the Urban Education Leadership Fellowship
Dear Dr. Williams,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Urban Education Leadership Fellowship offered by the Center for Educational Leadership. As an educational professional with eight years of teaching and three years of administrative experience in high-need urban schools, I am passionate about transforming educational opportunities for students in challenging environments.
Throughout my career, I have worked in schools where more than 80% of students qualify for free or reduced lunch. At Franklin Middle School, I developed and implemented a literacy intervention program that increased reading proficiency scores by 22% over two years. As Assistant Principal at Washington High School, I led initiatives to reduce chronic absenteeism by 35% and increased graduation rates from 67% to 78% through targeted mentoring programs and family engagement strategies.
The Urban Education Leadership Fellowship represents an ideal opportunity to build upon my experiences while gaining new perspectives and skills. Your program’s focus on data-driven decision making and equity-centered leadership practices directly aligns with my professional goals and values. I am particularly drawn to the mentorship component and the opportunity to collaborate with other educational leaders facing similar challenges.
My master’s degree in Educational Administration, combined with hands-on experience addressing systemic barriers to student success, has prepared me to contribute meaningfully to your cohort. If selected, I plan to focus my fellowship project on creating sustainable teacher leadership models that empower educators to drive change from within their schools.
Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and learn more about how this fellowship can help advance educational equity in urban communities.
Respectfully submitted,
Jamal Washington, M.Ed.
Washington High School
1400 Education Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: (410) 555-9087
Email: j.washington@baltimorepublicschools.org
4. Arts and Humanities Fellowship
April 5, 2025
Professor Eleanor Simmons
Fellowship Committee Chair
National Endowment for Humanities
400 Cultural Boulevard
New York, NY 10018
Subject: Application for Creative Writing Fellowship Program
Dear Professor Simmons and Committee Members,
Please accept this letter as my formal application for the Creative Writing Fellowship Program offered by the National Endowment for Humanities. As a published author with two short story collections and numerous pieces in literary journals, I am eager to develop my first novel during this prestigious fellowship opportunity.
My writing explores the complexities of immigrant experiences in America, drawing from my own background as a first-generation American. My short story collection “Between Worlds” received the Regional Literary Arts Award in 2023, and my work has appeared in publications such as The Atlantic, Harper’s, and The Paris Review. Critics have noted my “distinctive voice” and “unflinching examination of cultural identity.”
The fellowship’s emphasis on creating literature that bridges cultural divides resonates deeply with my artistic vision. My proposed novel project, “The Inheritance,” examines three generations of a family divided between their homeland and America, exploring themes of belonging, legacy, and reconciliation. The nine-month timeframe and financial support would allow me to conduct necessary research and fully dedicate myself to completing this manuscript.
Beyond the financial support, I am drawn to the community aspect of the fellowship. The opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow writers and receive mentorship from established authors would be invaluable to my growth as a writer. If selected, I would also be honored to participate in the public reading series and community engagement activities.
Thank you for considering my application. I have included my writing sample, project proposal, and resume as requested. I look forward to potentially joining your community of fellows.
With sincere appreciation,
Sofia Mendez
2145 Writer’s Way
Seattle, WA 98101
Phone: (206) 555-6754
Email: sofia.mendez@writinglife.com
5. Technology Innovation Fellowship
May 12, 2025
Mr. Jonathan Lee
Director of Fellowship Programs
Future Technology Foundation
300 Innovation Parkway
San Francisco, CA 94107
Subject: Letter of Intent for AI Ethics and Policy Fellowship
Dear Mr. Lee,
I am writing to apply for the AI Ethics and Policy Fellowship at the Future Technology Foundation. With a computer science background and specialized training in ethical AI development, I am passionate about ensuring that artificial intelligence advances in ways that benefit humanity while minimizing harm.
My interest in AI ethics began during my graduate studies when I researched bias in facial recognition algorithms. This work led to my current role at Tech Responsibility Institute, where I analyze emerging AI technologies for potential societal impacts. Most recently, I led a project evaluating algorithmic decision-making tools used in the healthcare sector, resulting in recommendations that were adopted by three major health systems.
What attracts me most to this fellowship is your foundation’s multidisciplinary approach to AI governance. The opportunity to collaborate with experts from technology, law, philosophy, and public policy would significantly expand my understanding of how to develop effective regulatory frameworks for AI systems. Your recent white paper on inclusive AI development strategies particularly resonates with my research interests.
If selected, I would focus my fellowship project on developing practical tools for algorithmic impact assessments that companies can implement during early stages of AI development. My technical expertise combined with my experience in stakeholder engagement would allow me to create frameworks that are both rigorous and implementable.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your important work at the intersection of technology, ethics, and policy.
Sincerely,
Alex Zhang, Ph.D.
Tech Responsibility Institute
475 Technology Circle, Suite 300
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 555-2234
Email: a.zhang@techresponsibility.org
6. Global Health Fellowship
June 7, 2025
Dr. Grace Okonkwo
Selection Committee Chair
International Health Alliance
600 Global Health Drive
Washington, DC 20036
Subject: Application for Community Health Fellowship Program
Dear Dr. Okonkwo and Selection Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Community Health Fellowship Program with the International Health Alliance. As a public health professional with experience implementing healthcare initiatives in resource-limited settings, I am eager to contribute to your organization’s mission of strengthening healthcare systems globally.
For the past four years, I have worked with Doctors Without Borders, helping establish community health worker programs in rural East Africa. My most significant achievement was designing and implementing a maternal health initiative that reduced maternal mortality by 40% in the target region through training local birth attendants and creating referral pathways to medical facilities. This experience taught me the importance of culturally appropriate interventions and community ownership for sustainable health improvements.
The International Health Alliance’s focus on building local capacity aligns perfectly with my approach to global health work. I especially admire your commitment to empowering communities rather than imposing external solutions. The fellowship’s emphasis on knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving offers an ideal environment to develop my skills further while making meaningful contributions.
My background in epidemiology, program evaluation, and community engagement has prepared me to take on the challenges of this fellowship. Additionally, my proficiency in French and Swahili would be valuable assets for fieldwork in many of your priority regions.
If selected, I would be particularly interested in contributing to projects related to strengthening primary healthcare systems and integrating traditional healing practices with evidence-based medicine. I am prepared for the travel requirements and ready to commit fully to the two-year fellowship period.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and working together to advance health equity globally.
With respect and appreciation,
Natalie Kimani, MPH
4532 Health Services Road
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Phone: (612) 555-8765
Email: n.kimani@globalhealthworker.org
7. Legal Advocacy Fellowship
July 19, 2025
Ms. Camila Rodriguez
Fellowship Director
Public Interest Law Foundation
350 Justice Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Subject: Letter of Intent for Civil Rights Advocacy Fellowship
Dear Ms. Rodriguez,
I am writing to express my interest in the Civil Rights Advocacy Fellowship offered by the Public Interest Law Foundation. As a recent law school graduate with a demonstrated commitment to social justice, I am eager to launch my career in civil rights law through this prestigious fellowship opportunity.
During law school, I focused my studies on constitutional law and civil rights, completing internships with the ACLU and the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division. For my clinical requirement, I worked with the Innocence Project, helping to secure the release of a wrongfully convicted individual after 15 years of imprisonment. This experience solidified my determination to address systemic inequities in our legal system.
The Public Interest Law Foundation’s approach to combining direct representation, impact litigation, and policy advocacy perfectly aligns with my vision for effective legal advocacy. I am particularly drawn to your organization’s current work challenging voting restrictions and addressing housing discrimination, areas where I hope to develop expertise.
If selected for this fellowship, I would bring strong research skills, experience drafting legal memoranda and briefs, and the ability to explain complex legal concepts to diverse audiences. My background working with marginalized communities has also taught me to listen carefully and center the needs of those most affected by rights violations.
The mentorship component of your fellowship program would be especially valuable as I begin my career in civil rights law. Learning from experienced advocates would help me develop both the legal strategies and the resilience needed for this challenging but essential work.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and passion for justice make me a strong candidate for this fellowship.
Respectfully,
Marcus Johnson, J.D.
2678 Liberty Street, Apt 3C
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: (347) 555-4321
Email: marcus.johnson@lawmail.com
8. Scientific Research Fellowship
August 22, 2025
Dr. Richard Barnes
Director, Fellowship Programs
National Science Foundation
1200 Research Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22230
Subject: Application for Renewable Energy Research Fellowship
Dear Dr. Barnes and Selection Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Renewable Energy Research Fellowship at the National Science Foundation. As a chemical engineer specializing in advanced materials for energy applications, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable energy technologies.
My research journey began during my doctoral studies at Berkeley, where I developed novel catalyst materials for hydrogen production with 30% higher efficiency than current commercial options. Following my Ph.D., I joined the Clean Energy Research Lab, where I currently lead a team working on next-generation battery materials. Our recent breakthrough in silicon-based anodes has attracted attention from both academic journals and industry partners for its potential to significantly increase energy density in lithium-ion batteries.
The NSF fellowship would provide the ideal platform to expand my research into emerging areas of energy storage that remain underfunded by commercial interests but hold tremendous potential for addressing climate change. Specifically, I hope to investigate sustainable alternatives to rare earth metals in energy applications—research that requires the type of long-term support that this fellowship offers.
My track record includes 12 peer-reviewed publications, three patents, and successful collaboration with both academic and industry partners. Beyond technical skills, I bring experience mentoring graduate students and communicating scientific concepts to non-technical audiences through outreach programs.
The interdisciplinary environment fostered by the NSF aligns perfectly with my research philosophy. Energy challenges require collaboration across chemistry, materials science, engineering, and policy—exactly the kind of cross-pollination that your fellowship program encourages.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to continue advancing renewable energy technologies as part of your prestigious fellowship program.
Sincerely,
Dr. Priya Sharma
Clean Energy Research Lab
Stanford University
450 Serra Mall
Stanford, CA 94305
Phone: (650) 555-9876
Email: p.sharma@stanford.edu
9. International Development Fellowship
September 5, 2025
Ms. Nadia Patel
Fellowship Coordinator
Global Development Institute
800 Progress Way
London, W1T 3JH
United Kingdom
Subject: Letter of Intent for Sustainable Agriculture Fellowship
Dear Ms. Patel,
I am writing to express my interest in the Sustainable Agriculture Fellowship offered by the Global Development Institute. With five years of experience implementing agricultural development projects across Sub-Saharan Africa, I am passionate about advancing food security through environmentally sustainable practices.
My background combines formal training in agricultural sciences with hands-on experience in the field. After completing my Master’s degree in Sustainable Agriculture, I joined AgriSolutions International, where I have designed and implemented projects focusing on climate-smart agriculture techniques for smallholder farmers. My most successful project introduced drought-resistant crop varieties and water conservation methods to farming communities in Northern Ghana, resulting in a 45% increase in yields despite decreasing rainfall in the region.
What draws me to this fellowship is the Global Development Institute’s commitment to participatory approaches that center farmers’ knowledge and needs. Too often, development initiatives fail because they overlook local wisdom and contexts. Your organization’s emphasis on co-creation with local communities resonates with my own approach to agricultural development.
My technical expertise in agroecology, soil health management, and farmer field school methodologies would allow me to contribute immediately to your ongoing projects. Additionally, my experience working with both government agencies and grassroots organizations has taught me how to navigate complex stakeholder relationships to achieve sustainable outcomes.
If selected for this fellowship, I would be particularly interested in exploring innovative financing mechanisms for smallholder farmers transitioning to sustainable practices—addressing the economic barriers that often prevent adoption of environmentally friendly methods.
Thank you for considering my application. I welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience and vision align with the goals of the Sustainable Agriculture Fellowship.
With appreciation,
Samuel Osei, M.Sc.
AgriSolutions International
45 Development Road
Accra, Ghana
Phone: +233 50 555 7890
Email: s.osei@agrisolutions.org
10. Policy Research Fellowship
October 12, 2025
Dr. Elizabeth Warren
Director of Fellowship Programs
Center for Policy Innovation
1700 Think Tank Row
Washington, DC 20005
Subject: Application for Economic Policy Fellowship
Dear Dr. Warren and Selection Committee,
I am writing to apply for the Economic Policy Fellowship at the Center for Policy Innovation. As an economist with experience in both academic research and practical policy analysis, I am eager to contribute to developing evidence-based solutions to pressing economic challenges.
My research focuses on labor market dynamics and workforce development policies. At the Urban Economic Institute, I conducted a multi-year study examining the effectiveness of various job training programs across five major U.S. cities. This research identified specific program elements that significantly improved employment outcomes for participants, leading to policy recommendations that were adopted by two state workforce development boards.
What attracts me most to the Center for Policy Innovation is your commitment to bridging rigorous research and practical policy implementation. Your recent work on inclusive economic growth strategies has been particularly influential, and I admire how your organization effectively communicates complex economic concepts to policymakers and the public.
My quantitative research skills, including advanced econometric methods and data visualization techniques, would enable me to produce compelling analysis. Additionally, my experience presenting to diverse audiences—from academic conferences to community meetings and legislative committees—has honed my ability to translate research findings into accessible policy recommendations.
If selected for this fellowship, I would focus on developing policy frameworks that address growing economic inequality while promoting sustainable growth. I am particularly interested in exploring how targeted place-based policies might revitalize struggling communities without triggering displacement of long-time residents.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining your team of researchers and contributing to the important work of developing sound economic policies.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Washington
Urban Economic Institute
250 Research Park Drive
Chicago, IL 60615
Phone: (773) 555-6543
Email: j.washington@uei.org
11. Humanitarian Aid Fellowship
November 8, 2025
Mr. Khalid Abdul
Fellowship Program Manager
International Crisis Response
900 Humanitarian Plaza
Geneva, 1202
Switzerland
Subject: Letter of Intent for Emergency Response Fellowship
Dear Mr. Abdul,
I am writing to apply for the Emergency Response Fellowship with International Crisis Response. With extensive experience in humanitarian aid across conflict zones and natural disaster settings, I am committed to strengthening emergency response systems to better serve communities in crisis.
My journey in humanitarian work began eight years ago when I volunteered with the Red Cross following a major earthquake in my home country. Since then, I have worked professionally with several aid organizations, most recently serving as Emergency Shelter Coordinator with Refugees United. In this role, I oversaw the establishment of temporary housing for over 5,000 displaced people following flooding in Southeast Asia, coordinating logistics, community engagement, and partnerships with local authorities.
The International Crisis Response approach to humanitarian aid—focusing on local leadership and long-term resilience while addressing immediate needs—aligns perfectly with my professional values. Too often, emergency responses fail to build capacity that remains after international organizations depart. Your organization’s emphasis on knowledge transfer and sustainability represents the future of effective humanitarian assistance.
My practical experience in rapid needs assessment, coordination of multi-agency responses, and adaptation of global best practices to local contexts would allow me to contribute meaningfully to your team. Additionally, my training in psychological first aid and experience supporting field staff through trauma-informed approaches would support your organization’s commitment to staff wellbeing.
If selected for this fellowship, I would be particularly interested in developing improved protocols for the critical transition phase between emergency response and recovery—often the period when vulnerable populations fall through the cracks of humanitarian assistance.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to bring my experience and passion for humanitarian service to International Crisis Response.
With respect,
Fatima Hassan, MHA
Current Address:
78 Global Avenue, Apt 12
New York, NY 10017
Phone: (212) 555-8901
Email: f.hassan@refugeesunited.org
12. Social Entrepreneurship Fellowship
December 15, 2025
Ms. Gabriela Mendez
Fellowship Director
Innovation for Change Foundation
550 Social Impact Drive
Austin, TX 78701
Subject: Application for Social Enterprise Development Fellowship
Dear Ms. Mendez and Selection Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Social Enterprise Development Fellowship offered by the Innovation for Change Foundation. As the founder of a community-based recycling initiative that employs formerly incarcerated individuals, I am passionate about using business approaches to address social challenges.
My journey as a social entrepreneur began three years ago when I launched GreenWorks, a social enterprise that collects and processes recyclable materials while providing stable employment and skill development for people returning from incarceration. Starting with just two employees, we now have a team of fifteen and divert over 200 tons of waste from landfills annually. Beyond the environmental impact, our program has achieved an 85% job retention rate among participants—significantly higher than typical reentry employment programs.
What draws me to this fellowship is the Innovation for Change Foundation’s emphasis on scaling proven models for greater impact. While GreenWorks has achieved success locally, I am eager to develop the skills and networks needed to expand our model to other communities. Your curriculum covering financial sustainability, impact measurement, and growth strategies directly addresses the challenges I currently face as a growing social enterprise.
My background combines business acumen from my previous career in management consulting with a deep understanding of social issues gained through volunteer work in the criminal justice system. This dual perspective has been invaluable in building a sustainable business model that effectively addresses social needs.
If selected for this fellowship, I would focus on developing a franchise model that would allow GreenWorks to expand while maintaining quality and impact. The mentorship and peer learning aspects of your program would be particularly valuable as I navigate this complex growth phase.
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining your community of social entrepreneurs working toward positive change.
With appreciation,
Carlos Ramirez
GreenWorks Recycling Social Enterprise
1250 Sustainability Way
Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 555-2109
Email: carlos.ramirez@greenworks.org
13. Journalism Fellowship
January 30, 2025
Mr. Daniel Thompson
Fellowship Director
Center for Investigative Reporting
700 Media Avenue
New York, NY 10023
Subject: Letter of Intent for Investigative Journalism Fellowship
Dear Mr. Thompson,
I am writing to apply for the Investigative Journalism Fellowship at the Center for Investigative Reporting. As a journalist with six years of experience covering social justice issues and government accountability, I am eager to deepen my investigative skills through your prestigious program.
My reporting career began at a local newspaper where I covered city government and quickly developed a specialty in public records investigations. My three-part series on municipal water contamination won a regional reporting award and led to policy changes in water testing procedures. Most recently, as a freelance journalist, I published an in-depth investigation into prison labor practices that was syndicated by several national outlets and sparked legislative hearings in two states.
What attracts me to the Center for Investigative Reporting is your commitment to stories that drive systemic change and your innovative approaches to investigative methodology. Your recent multimedia series on housing discrimination demonstrated how powerful reporting can combine data analysis, human stories, and visual elements to create compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
My strengths as a reporter include tenacity in pursuing leads, skill in data analysis and visualization, and the ability to earn the trust of sources from various backgrounds. While I have achieved some success with investigative projects, I am eager to learn advanced techniques for managing complex investigations, securing and analyzing large datasets, and adapting stories for multiple platforms.
If selected for this fellowship, I would focus on investigating the intersection of corporate interests and environmental regulation, with particular attention to communities disproportionately affected by pollution. This topic builds on my previous reporting while addressing critical issues of environmental justice.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to join your team of dedicated journalists working to uphold transparency and accountability through rigorous reporting.
Sincerely,
Rachel Kim
1875 Journalist Way
Denver, CO 80205
Phone: (720) 555-3456
Email: rachel.kim@independentjournalist.com
14. Public Service Fellowship
February 26, 2025
Dr. Marcus Johnson
Fellowship Program Director
Public Service Academy
450 Government Plaza
Washington, DC 20006
Subject: Application for Local Government Innovation Fellowship
Dear Dr. Johnson and Selection Committee,
I am writing to express my interest in the Local Government Innovation Fellowship offered by the Public Service Academy. As a current city planner with experience implementing community-centered approaches to urban development, I am passionate about transforming how local governments engage with and serve their constituents.
My work in public service began five years ago when I joined the planning department in a mid-sized city experiencing rapid growth and gentrification pressures. Recognizing that traditional planning processes often exclude marginalized voices, I developed a neighborhood ambassador program that trained residents from underrepresented communities to gather input and facilitate discussions about development priorities. This initiative increased participation in planning processes by 60% among communities that historically had low engagement rates and led to significant changes in our comprehensive plan.
The Public Service Academy’s focus on bringing innovation to government systems while centering equity considerations perfectly aligns with my professional goals. Your approach recognizes that truly effective government requires both technical solutions and meaningful civic engagement—a philosophy that guides my own work.
My professional background combines technical skills in urban planning with experience in community organizing and public administration. This interdisciplinary perspective has allowed me to bridge departments and stakeholder groups to create more collaborative approaches to governance.
If selected for this fellowship, I would focus on developing replicable models for participatory budgeting at the local level—giving residents direct input into how public funds are allocated in their communities. This approach has shown promise in several cities but requires further refinement to scale effectively.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your network of public servants committed to making government more responsive and equitable.
With appreciation,
Leila Jackson, MPA, AICP
City Planning Department
250 Municipal Building
Cleveland, OH 44113
Phone: (216) 555-7890
Email: l.jackson@clevelandcity.gov
15. Academic Research Fellowship
March 15, 2025
Professor Robert Chen
Fellowship Committee Chair
Institute for Advanced Studies
100 Scholar’s Way
Princeton, NJ 08544
Subject: Letter of Intent for Interdisciplinary Research Fellowship
Dear Professor Chen and Selection Committee Members,
I am writing to apply for the Interdisciplinary Research Fellowship at the Institute for Advanced Studies. As a historian whose work bridges environmental history, science and technology studies, and public policy, I am excited about the opportunity to pursue innovative research in your collaborative environment.
My scholarship examines how scientific expertise shapes environmental governance across different political systems. My doctoral dissertation, which won the National History Association’s Outstanding Dissertation Award, analyzed the evolution of scientific advisory systems for environmental policy in three countries from 1970-2000. This work revealed how institutional structures and political cultures significantly influence the integration of scientific knowledge into policy decisions—insights that remain relevant for current environmental challenges.
What attracts me most to the Institute for Advanced Studies is your commitment to research that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. Environmental problems require perspectives from natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities, yet academic structures often hinder such cross-fertilization. Your fellowship program, with its emphasis on collaborative inquiry and engagement with practitioners, provides the ideal setting to develop my current project on the history and future of climate science communication.
My methodological approach combines archival research, oral history, and policy analysis—skills that would complement other fellows’ expertise while benefiting from their perspectives. My experience teaching undergraduate and graduate courses on environmental history and science policy has also honed my ability to communicate complex ideas across disciplines.
If selected for this fellowship, I would use the year to complete research for my book manuscript while engaging actively with the institute’s intellectual community. The opportunity to participate in seminars and workshops with scholars from diverse fields would greatly enrich my work.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be honored to join the Institute’s distinguished tradition of supporting innovative, impactful scholarship.
Sincerely,
Dr. Maya Wilson
Department of History
University of Michigan
1029 Tisch Hall
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Phone: (734) 555-6789
Email: m.wilson@umich.edu
Wrapping Up: Fellowship Intent Letters
These fifteen sample letters demonstrate the key elements that make a successful letter of intent for fellowship applications. Each example showcases a different approach while maintaining the core components that selection committees look for. The best letters clearly communicate your background and qualifications, explain why you’re interested in the specific fellowship, demonstrate alignment between your goals and the program’s mission, and outline what you hope to accomplish.
As you craft your own letter, pay attention to the specific requirements of the fellowship you’re applying for. Adapt these examples to highlight your unique experiences and aspirations. A well-written letter of intent can set you apart from other candidates and open doors to valuable opportunities that advance your career and personal growth.
Remember that fellowship committees read hundreds of applications. Make yours stand out by being authentic, specific, and focused on how you can contribute to the program as well as benefit from it. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your letter of intent can be the first step toward an exciting fellowship experience.