Deadline: March 15, 2026
The Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship is a one-year competitive academic program designed for graduate students interested in exploring the intersection of public policy, political economy, and social change. Hosted by the Mercatus Center at George Mason University, this fellowship provides emerging scholars with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of classical liberal ideas and the institutional frameworks that foster prosperity and human progress.
About the Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship
The Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship is tailored for graduate students from any university or discipline who demonstrate a keen interest in public policy, economics, law, and governance. Fellows are introduced to a range of schools of thought in political economy — notably the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington traditions — and learn how these approaches can be applied to real-world policy issues such as regulation, budgeting, public health, and social welfare.
Organized by the Mercatus Center
The Mercatus Center at George Mason University is a leading research center dedicated to advancing knowledge about the role of markets and institutions in improving people’s lives. Through this fellowship, Mercatus fosters a diverse network of scholars committed to innovative, evidence-based policy research and intellectual exchange.
Duration of the Fellowship
The Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship runs for one academic year, during which fellows participate in a series of colloquia hosted by the Mercatus Center. These events are held over several weekends throughout the year and offer participants the chance to engage directly with renowned scholars and policy experts.
Benefits of the Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship
Selected fellows receive up to $5,000 in total funding, which typically includes:
- A monetary stipend for participation
- All required reading materials
- Travel and lodging costs for in-person colloquia sessions
This funding ensures that selected fellows can fully engage in the program’s activities without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a graduate program (Master’s, JD, or PhD) at any accredited university
- Demonstrate a strong interest in public policy, political economy, and social science research
- Be available to attend all scheduled weekend colloquia organized by the Mercatus Center
- Be students of any nationality, including those studying outside the United States
The fellowship welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds who are passionate about understanding how institutions and economic systems influence societal outcomes.
Program Expectations
Fellows in the program are expected to:
- Actively participate in all colloquia sessions and discussions
- Complete assigned readings before each session
- Engage with Mercatus scholars and peers to exchange ideas and collaborate on relevant policy issues
The fellowship emphasizes intellectual rigor, debate, and the application of economic reasoning to pressing global challenges.
Application Details
Applications for the Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship 2026–2027 are open until March 15, 2026. Successful applicants will join a global network of thinkers dedicated to advancing classical liberal perspectives on governance and policy reform.
Why Apply for the Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship?
The Frédéric Bastiat Fellowship is more than an academic opportunity — it’s a platform to build a professional network, gain mentorship from leading economists, and enhance one’s ability to engage in impactful policy discussions. For graduate students seeking to shape the future of public policy, this fellowship offers an unparalleled intellectual and professional experience.
Application Links
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