The McCain Institute runs this yearlong, non-residential fellowship with the Australian National University for mid-career national security and counterterrorism professionals from the Five Eyes countries.
Fellows keep their full-time jobs and travel to three week-long modules in Washington, D.C., London and Canberra (the 2026 cohort also went to Wellington). As of October 2026 the application page still says the 2026 round is closed and the 2027 round will open in Summer 2026; no opening date has been posted.
Benefits & funding
- The McCain Institute covers expenses; home organizations are asked to contribute to travel costs when possible.
- Three required one-week modules in Washington, D.C., London and Canberra, with virtual and in-person cohort contact in between.
- Briefings with senior officials and journalists, scenario exercises, leadership training and a lasting Five Eyes network.
- Any other travel, such as conferences, is optional.
Eligibility
- Citizens of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States only.
- At least four years of professional experience in national security or counterterrorism; the FAQ says the strongest applicants have five or more.
- Must currently hold a relevant role in government, the military, law enforcement, intelligence, a think tank, journalism, academia, or a relevant private or nonprofit organization.
- No age limit; no degree requirement is published.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
Eligible nationalities
Australia · Canada · New Zealand · UK · USA
Experience required
≥ 4 yrs
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Application process
- 1Prepare a resume or CV and a 500-word statement of purpose.
- 2Submit both through the official application portal while a round is open.
- 3Watch the application page, because the 2027 opening date and deadline have not been published.
Program timeline
June 30 – August 31, 2025
Application window for the 2026 cohort.
January–December 2026
2026 fellowship year.
March 8–13, 2026
Washington, D.C. module (2026 cohort).
Summer 2026
Stated opening for the 2027 round; not yet open as of October 2026.