The Don Lavoie Fellowship offers undergraduate students, graduates, and early-stage postgraduate students an online semester-long program in political economy with funding of up to $1,250. Apply by April 15, 2026.
The Don Lavoie Fellowship provides an exciting opportunity for students and young professionals interested in political economy to deepen their academic knowledge and prepare for graduate studies. This competitive, semester-long online program is designed for undergraduate students, recent graduates, and early-stage graduate students from any discipline who are exploring advanced study in economics, public policy, and related fields. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year close on April 15, 2026, with decisions expected approximately twelve or more weeks after the deadline.
Program Overview
The fellowship offers participants structured engagement with foundational and contemporary ideas in political economy. Delivered entirely online, the program allows fellows from around the world to participate without relocation. This flexible format ensures accessibility while maintaining a rigorous academic environment.
Participants will engage in online reading discussions, collaborative forums, and guided sessions led by scholars. These activities introduce fellows to intellectual traditions including the Austrian, Virginia, and Bloomington schools of political economy. By exploring these frameworks, fellows gain tools for understanding complex policy issues, institutional analysis, and economic governance.
In addition to academic exposure, fellows join a global network of students, alumni, faculty, and researchers connected through the Mercatus Center. This network provides mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge research in contemporary political economy.
Funding and Benefits
The fellowship offers a total award of up to $1,250, designed to support participants throughout the semester. This award includes a stipend as well as coverage of required readings for online discussions. By providing materials directly, the program ensures that fellows have access to core texts without additional financial burden.
Beyond financial support, fellows benefit from professional guidance and mentorship. The program includes advice on research topics, graduate school preparation, and career pathways. These resources are particularly valuable for participants considering postgraduate study in economics, political science, public policy, or related disciplines.
Eligibility Criteria
The fellowship is open to a broad range of applicants. Eligible candidates include undergraduate students planning to pursue graduate school, recent graduates or young professionals exploring postgraduate education, and early-stage graduate students in any discipline. Importantly, applicants are not required to major in economics; the program welcomes individuals from diverse academic backgrounds interested in political economy.
The inclusive eligibility criteria reflect the interdisciplinary nature of political economy, which intersects with law, sociology, public policy, business, and philosophy. Applicants from universities worldwide are encouraged to apply, making the fellowship an international academic opportunity.
Learning Experience
Fellows participate in structured online activities designed to encourage critical thinking and collaborative learning. Discussion sessions are led by scholars who guide participants through key readings and contemporary research. The program also includes an online discussion portal where fellows exchange ideas, ask questions, and engage in ongoing dialogue.
This interactive environment fosters intellectual development and exposes fellows to diverse perspectives. Participants also gain experience in academic discussion and policy analysis, skills that are highly valuable for graduate-level study and research careers.
Professional and Academic Development
The fellowship serves as a stepping stone for individuals considering advanced degrees. Participants receive mentorship on graduate school applications, research design, and academic writing. Exposure to scholars and peers also helps fellows refine their interests and identify potential research areas.
Additionally, fellows become part of a community engaged in ongoing scholarship. Alumni of the program often continue collaborating on research, attending academic events, and contributing to policy discussions. This extended network enhances long-term academic and professional opportunities.
About the Fellowship’s Namesake
The fellowship is named after Don Lavoie, a scholar known for his contributions to political economy and interdisciplinary research. His work emphasized dialogue, institutional analysis, and the role of knowledge in economic systems—principles that continue to shape the fellowship’s academic approach.
Application Timeline
Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year must be submitted by April 15, 2026. After the deadline, applications undergo review, and decisions begin to be announced approximately twelve weeks later. Prospective applicants are encouraged to ensure all materials are complete before submission.
Why Apply?
The Don Lavoie Fellowship offers a unique blend of academic learning, mentorship, and financial support. Its fully online format makes it accessible globally, while its focus on political economy equips participants with analytical tools relevant to public policy, economics, and governance.
For students and early-career professionals exploring graduate education, the fellowship provides an ideal platform to deepen knowledge, connect with scholars, and build a foundation for future academic and professional success.
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