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Evaluation Process

Grant applications are reviewed by a committee of faculty and staff. We have taken steps to ensure that the application and evaluation process is fair and straightforward, as such, there is no appeals process and all decisions are final. Any questions, concerns or comments should be directed to the internship coordinator.

The criteria for evaluation include:

  • How well does the internship fit your career goals? How well does it match your training, experience, and abilities? How concrete, specific, and clear are the goals of the internship?
  • Does the internship reflect the public service commitment of the Kennedy School?
  • What value will your work add to the organization? How much responsibility will the internship have? How essential is this internship to the mission of the organization?
  • Will the organization pay you a stipend? Can they provide any in-kind support? Can they help with the expenses of transportation or housing? Have they designated a dedicated supervisor/mentor?

Approximately half of available SIF funding is generally awarded in our first round. Applications that meet SIF criteria but are not funded in our first round, along with any new submissions, will be considered in the final second round of decisions.

Due to the limited amount of available SIF funding, the Selection Committee reserves the right to grant less than the amount of funding requested. In addition, an SIF grant may be reduced or rescinded if a student receives other summer funding.

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