FAQs

What is FCF?

The First Citizen Fellowship is India's pioneering foreign policy fellowship designed exclusively for high school students. Launched by IFPP, it's a three-week virtual intensive program that transforms curious minds into informed global citizens through critical thinking, media literacy, and hands-on engagement with international affairs. Fellows collaborate with former diplomats, journalists, and policy experts to comprehend global power dynamics and envision India's diplomatic future.

How does the program work?

FCF operates as an interactive learning journey combining expert sessions, case study discussions, and creative workshops. Over eight to ten sessions spanning three weeks, fellows engage with real-world foreign policy challenges through experiential learning rather than traditional lectures. You'll participate in diplomatic negotiations, analyse conflicts, design climate policies, and debate India's strategic choices with guidance from seasoned practitioners.

Who becomes a Fellow?

FCF's fellows from the inaugural cohort will be students in Indian high schools who are exceptionally talented, passionate about global citizenship, and possess the courage to challenge existing systems, the empathy to understand diverse perspectives, and the vision to reimagine India's role on the world stage.

Application Method: Online application form through the website.

Application Components:

• Completed application form with basic demographic details

• Video essay (topic and guidelines provided)

• Written prompt responses demonstrating critical engagement and creativity

• Academic records (see requirements below)

Application Deadline: TBD

Selection Criteria: Applications are evaluated based on academic performance, essay quality, and demonstrated curiosity about global affairs. We seek students who are open and curious about learning new things, with strong critical thinking abilities. 

Notification: Candidates will be notified via their registered email address within two weeks of the application deadline.

Program Fee: None

Why Free? We believe in universal access to critical education and that foreign policy understanding should be cultivated in all young minds in India. No financial barriers should prevent talented students from engaging with global citizenship.

What's Included: All session materials, expert interactions, certificate of completion, and access to IFPP's alumni network at no cost.

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship: Must be an Indian citizen

• Educational Requirement: Currently studying in an Indian high school and must remain enrolled for the duration of the program

• Grade Level: Students currently in grades 9-12 (ages 14-18)

• Academic Requirement: No minimum percentage cut-off for application

• Language Proficiency: Comfortable reading, writing, and speaking in English

• Technology Access: Reliable internet connection and device for virtual sessions

• Commitment Level: Ability to attend all eight sessions and complete pre-session work

Academic Records Required

Mark Sheet Requirements:

• Students starting Class 9: Submit mark sheets for Class 7 and 8

• Students starting Class 10: Submit mark sheets for Class 8 and 9

• Students starting Class 11: Submit mark sheets for Class 9 and 10 (if board results unavailable, latest Class 10 results like pre-boards/first term are acceptable)

• Students starting Class 12: Submit Class 10 board exam results and Class 11 or most recent available academic records

• Minimum Requirement: At least one mark sheet from the previous two years of education must be uploaded

Important: There is no cut-off percentage for applying to the program

Requirements and Expectations

• Attendance: Mandatory participation in all eight sessions

• Pre-Work: Complete assigned readings and reflection exercises before each session

• Active Participation: Engage meaningfully in discussions, simulations, and group activities

• Digital Etiquette: Maintain professional conduct during virtual interactions

• Assignment Completion: Submit required reflection papers and project work on time

• Collaborative Spirit: Work effectively with diverse peer groups from across the region

• Open Mindset: Willingness to question assumptions and engage with complex, sometimes controversial topics

Technical Requirements

• Platform: Sessions conducted via Meet (link provided upon acceptance)

• Device: Laptop or desktop computer recommended (mobile participation discouraged)

• Internet: Stable broadband connection for video calls

• Environment: Quiet space for focused participation during 90-minute sessions

• Backup Plan: Alternative connectivity option in case of technical difficulties

What Fellows Receive

• Certificate: Official Certificate of Completion from IFPP

• Resources: Curated reading lists, policy briefs, and analytical frameworks

• Network Access: Invitation to IFPP alumni events and continued engagement opportunities

• Mentorship: Ongoing guidance from the IFPP team and guest experts.

• Community: Access to exclusive FCF alumni network for future collaboration

Time Commitment

• Session Duration: 90 to 120 minutes per session

• Frequency: 4 sessions per week over 3 weeks (10 sessions)

• Preparation Time: 2-3 hours of reading and reflection between sessions

• Is there a waitlist?
  Yes, we maintain a waitlist for qualified candidates who cannot be accommodated in the current cohort. Waitlisted applicants will be notified and may be offered spots if selected fellows withdraw or in future cohorts.

• How will candidates be notified about their admission decision?
  All candidates will be notified about their admission decision via their registered email address. IFPP team actively monitor all emails and responds with the required information promptly. Please check your spam folder and ensure your email address is correctly provided in the application.

• Will I have to attend all sessions?
  Yes, attendance at all eight sessions is mandatory. The program is designed as a comprehensive learning journey where each session builds upon the previous ones. Fellows who miss sessions without prior approval may be asked to withdraw from the program.

• Are there any terms and conditions/code of conduct for the program?
  Yes, all selected fellows will be required to agree to a code of conduct that includes professional behaviour during sessions, respectful interaction with peers and experts, confidentiality regarding sensitive discussions, and commitment to the learning process. Detailed terms and conditions will be shared with accepted candidates.