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Join Polaris Society

Competitive. Selective. Built for those who are serious about public service careers.

Who Should Apply

Eligibility

Current UGA undergraduate (First-Year or Sophomore for programs; Sophomore or Junior for Fellowships)
Enrolled in SPIA, Grady, Terry, or Franklin College
Demonstrated interest in public service, policy, or international affairs
Ability to articulate your professional motivations
SPIA Grady College Terry College Franklin College
Core Programs

First & Second Year

Foundational programs open to first and second-year students. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis each semester.

Discovery Program

First Year

Semester-long professionalization cohort. Build the foundation you need before you think you need it.

Recruits: Late August & January
Cohort size: 32
Duration: One semester
Apply: Discovery
Catalyst Program

Second Year

Year-long acceleration cohort for sophomores ready to build DC-level networks and define a career direction.

Recruits: Late August
Cohort size: 30–40
Duration: Full academic year
Apply: Catalyst
Polaris Fellowships

Second & Third Year

Selective, track-specific cohorts. 4–8 seats each. Apply only if you are committed to a specific career field in public service.

Foreign Policy & Security Recruits · October

Fellowship

For students committed to diplomacy, the Foreign Service, or international security.

Cohort size: 4–8 Fellows
Eligible: 2nd or 3rd year
Apply: Foreign Policy
Legislative Policy Recruits · October

Fellowship

For students targeting Capitol Hill, congressional staffing, or policy advocacy.

Cohort size: 4–8 Fellows
Eligible: 2nd or 3rd year
Apply: Legislative
Intelligence & Criminal Justice Recruits · February

Fellowship

For students pursuing the intelligence community, national security, or federal investigations.

Cohort size: 4–8 Fellows
Eligible: 2nd or 3rd year
Apply: Intel & CJ
Gov. Public Service Consulting Recruits · March

Fellowship

For students pursuing careers at the intersection of government and consulting – federal agencies and policy shops.

Cohort size: 4–8 Fellows
Eligible: 2nd or 3rd year
Apply: Gov. Consulting

Questions? Reach us at polarissocietyuga@gmail.com or on Instagram at @ugapolaris.

FAQs

Common Questions

Is prior political experience required?
No. Genuine interest in public service is the only prerequisite. We evaluate motivation, not a resume.
Can I apply to multiple tracks?
You may apply to more than one; the board will determine fit based on your application and class year.
When do programs begin?
Discovery and Catalyst launch Fall 2026. Fellowship cohorts recruit on their own timelines – see the Programs page for the full recruitment calendar.
Who reviews applications?
The Polaris Society Executive Board. Decisions are final.
What does the application ask?
Basic background (year, major, college), your target program, and a short statement of interest. Be direct – 2–4 sentences is enough.

Applications Open Fall 2026.

Space is limited by design. Don't wait until you feel ready.

Contact the Board