The FAO Schwarz Fellowship, run by the FAO Schwarz Family Foundation, places recent college graduates in two-year paid roles at nonprofit host organizations in Boston, New York City and Philadelphia.
Fellows combine direct service with young people and strategic projects, backed by leadership retreats and mentors. Six hosts are recruiting for the 2027–2029 cohort, each hiring its own Fellow.
Benefits & funding
- Total compensation of about US$115,000 (Boston, New York) or US$105,000 (Philadelphia) over two years for a summer 2027 start (FAQ); the overview page still shows the 2026 figures of about US$110,000 and US$96–100,000.
- Host’s entry-level employee benefits; Foundation-paid professional development and retreats.
- Relocation is not covered; a start-of-Fellowship bonus can help with up-front costs.
- Accepting an offer is a two-year commitment.
Eligibility
- College seniors at an accredited four-year college or university, graduating between November 2026 and summer 2027.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the US for the full two years; hosts cannot sponsor work visas and the Fellowship cannot help obtain work authorization.
- Any major.
Application process
- 1Choose one or more host positions; each has its own online application.
- 2Submit a one-page PDF résumé and four short essays per position by 1 February 2027, 9:00 PM ET; late applications are not considered.
- 3Hosts screen and interview semifinalists, then make offers; an offer must be accepted within 6 days.
Program timeline
Online info sessions
17 Nov 2026, 14 Jan 2027
Application deadline
1 Feb 2027, 9:00 PM ET
Semifinalists notified about interviews
End Feb 2027
Final decisions
End Apr 2027
Fellowship starts
Summer 2027