Ambassador
Fellowship
A national cohort of high-achieving leaders, ages 18–24,
preparing for advanced degrees and the careers they unlock.
The journey
Five phases.
Eight months.
Graduate School Summit in Boston
Ambassadors begin the program with an immersive, in-person experience designed to build clarity around the graduate school admissions journey, expand academic and professional networks, and strengthen confidence and belonging.
Strategic Research & Pathway Selection
Through guided research and coaching, Ambassadors identify degree pathways and programs aligned with their goals, develop clear application timelines, and build tailored school lists grounded in fit and feasibility.
Test Preparation
Ambassadors are paired with a dedicated test preparation coach to develop structured study plans, strengthen test-taking strategies, and improve standardized test performance. Active participation in test preparation is a core required component of the fellowship and is designed to increase readiness and reduce test-related stress.
Admissions Coaching
Ambassadors partner with a dedicated admissions coach to clarify their graduate school strategy, sharpen their storytelling, and translate their experiences into compelling, competitive applications. Through individualized feedback and structured milestones, ambassadors prepare and submit polished applications aligned with their goals.
Graduate School Enrollment & Alumni Support
After applications are submitted, Ambassadors receive continued mentorship and guidance through admissions decisions, financial planning, and the transition into graduate school. Upon enrollment, alums are awarded a $10,000 transitional grant to help offset relocation, matriculation, and early graduate school expenses.
For every enrolled Ambassador
$10,000
transitional grant
Designed to help cover the essential costs of starting graduate school, including housing, technology, books, tuition, and other transitional expenses.
75+ Alumni. From Fellowship to Harvard, Johns Hopkins, UCLA, UPenn, Meharry, and beyond.
Meet our Ambassadors →Before you apply
What to expect.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applying to graduate school in Fall 2027
- Be between the ages of 18 and 24
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative undergrad GPA
- Identify as someone with limited access to master’s and doctoral degrees. This includes, but is not limited to, students who: (1) are the first in their families to pursue graduate education, (2) from a low-income background, or (3) from an under-resourced community
- Demonstrate leadership through a campus or community organization (e.g., president, secretary, treasurer, volunteer coordinator, organizer, etc.)
- Be currently enrolled in or a graduate of an in-person undergraduate program at an accredited U.S. 4-year institution
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Uphold the values of a Leadership Brainery Ambassador by demonstrating responsibility, respect, inclusivity, and professional integrity.
Application Timeline
Selection Criteria
Academic & Professional Preparation
Demonstrated readiness for graduate-level study through academic background, experiences, and a well-prepared resume.
Leadership & Initiative
Evidence of leadership, impact, or meaningful engagement in academic, professional, and community settings.
Clarity of Graduate School Goals
A clear understanding of why graduate school is part of the applicant’s path and how it connects to their long-term academic and professional goals.
Readiness & Timing
Strong alignment between the applicant’s current stage and the demands of an intensive, eight-month graduate school preparation program—which includes required test preparation and admissions coaching.
Self-Awareness & Planning
Thoughtful reflection on personal strengths, growth areas, and the ability to manage time, responsibilities, and commitments.
Engagement & Commitment
Eagerness to fully participate in a hybrid program that includes virtual programming, application milestones, and an in-person intensive.
Recurring series
Graduate School Access Collaborative
Recurring virtual roundtable. Real talk on graduate access.
GSAC convenes higher education professionals, nonprofit leaders, funders, policymakers, and students working across the graduate access landscape — designed to offer timely insight and shared learning as the field navigates a changing education environment.
Interested in attending a GSAC session? Email us to find out when the next one is.