Abroad Award
US Citizenship Not Required

PiLA Fellowships are open to motivated, service-minded young professionals and graduating seniors who are ready to make an impact in Latin America and the Caribbean. Please review the following eligibility criteria carefully:

• • Graduating seniors and early-career professionals are eligible to apply.

  • Applicants must hold a degree from an accredited university in the United States or Canada (or be on track to graduate before the fellowship start date).

  • Professional or advanced proficiency in Spanish is required for nearly all PiLA fellowships — fellows must be able to live and work independently in Spanish-speaking environments.

What Makes a Strong PiLA Fellow?
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, but here are the qualities and experiences in strong applicants:

Core Qualities

• Adaptability and flexibility — You are comfortable adjusting to new environments and navigating uncertainty.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills — You can listen deeply, communicate across cultures, and build trust with colleagues and community members.
• Resilience and problem-solving — You face challenges with creativity and determination, maintaining a sense of professionalism and calm under pressure.
• Teamwork and collaboration — You value working with others, contribute positively to group dynamics, and know when to lead and when to support.
• Empathy and humility — You approach your work with openness, cultural sensitivity, and respect, recognizing that you are a guest in the communities you serve.
• Commitment to service and social impact — You are driven by a genuine desire to support community-led change and learn from those you serve.
• A sense of humor and perspective — You know how to laugh at yourself and navigate challenges with grace, which is essential for long-term success in the field.

Skills & Experiences
While not all placements require specialized expertise, many partners seek fellows with specific skillsets. These may include:

• Excellent writing, research, and analytical skills — for drafting reports, proposals, and conducting needs assessments.
• Professional or advanced Spanish language proficiency — essential for working and communicating effectively.
• Teaching or tutoring experience — especially for education-focused placements.
• Data analysis, monitoring & evaluation, and research skills — for roles involving program evaluation, impact measurement, and strategic planning.
• Curriculum design and educational programming — for organizations working in schools or community education settings.
• Communications and social media management — for helping partners amplify their mission and engage stakeholders.
• Grant writing, development, and fundraising experience — for organizations seeking support in resource mobilization.
• Public health or community health education — especially for organizations working on health access and equity.
• Environmental conservation, research, and fieldwork — for placements focused on sustainability and biodiversity.

General Expectations
A record of academic achievement and service, demonstrating initiative, leadership, and commitment to social justice.

• Professional Spanish — nearly all placements require fellows to live and work independently in Spanish-speaking environments.
• Maturity and readiness to take on meaningful professional responsibilities in diverse organizational and cultural settings.

Here are a few key things you can expect during your PiLA fellowship year:

• Financial Support: Fellows receive a combination of room, board, and a stipend to meet basic living needs during their service. Exact provisions vary by placement and partner organization.

• Dynamic Placements: Fellows are matched with leading partner organizations working to address pressing issues in fields like education, public health, environmental conservation, entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and more. You’ll gain hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges that align with your skills and passions.

• Lasting Connections & Community: Throughout the year, fellows have opportunities to connect with one another through virtual orientations and events. Check out our Alumni Spotlight posts to learn more about what our alums have chosen to pursue post-PiLA.

• Mentorship & Ongoing Support: PiLA provides regular check-ins and guidance from staff, as well as access to an alumni mentorship program to help you navigate challenges and make the most of your fellowship experience.

• A Year of Meaningful Impact: Most fellowships last approximately 12 months, with placements finalized in early spring and start dates typically ranging from June to August. While PiLA remains engaged and supportive, fellows are encouraged to embrace autonomy, adapt to new environments, and build strong relationships with their host organizations and communities.

• A Launchpad for Your Future: Above all, a PiLA fellowship is a life-changing year of service, equipping you with the tools, perspectives, and connections to pursue a career of impact — in Latin America and beyond.

To be considered for a PiLA Fellowship, applicants must submit a complete online application, which includes:

• Résumé — outlining academic, professional, and volunteer experiences.

• Unofficial transcript(s) — from all colleges and universities attended.

• One professional or academic letter of recommendation — must be submitted to the application portal directly by the recommender.

• $100 Application Fee — Nonrefundable. Fee waivers are available for students who receive financial aid — see application for details.

  Applicants who are Pell Grant recipients or currently receiving U.S. federal financial aid may request a reduced application fee.

  To request a reduced fee:

  1. Email: applications@pila-princeton.org

  2. Subject line: “PiLA Application Fee Waiver”

• Note:

  • Incomplete applications will not be reviewed — be sure to submit all required materials on time.

  • Late materials will not be accepted after the posted deadline.