2027
John Burton Scholarship for Capital Fellows
The John Burton Scholarship for Capital Fellows is the first statewide initiative designed to expand access to public policy careers for current and former foster youth.
The scholarship is awarded to three young adults accepted into the Capital Fellows Programs offered by the Center for California Studies at Sacramento State University. Recognized as one of the nation’s most respected public policy fellowships, the Capital Fellows Programs provide an immersive, year-long placement in the California Legislature or Executive Branch, where fellows gain hands-on experience shaping policy, supporting legislative or agency teams, and advancing equity across the state.
Applications for the 2027 Capital Fellows Programs open August 31, 2026 and close November 10, 2026. To learn more, register for a virtual information session on September 10th.
KEY BENEFITS & SUPPORT
- Comprehensive Compensation: Full health coverage, monthly stipend, academic credit, and individual advising.
- Professional Growth: Structured seminars to deepen policy skills, robust professional development, and direct mentorship.
- Impactful Networking: Build lasting connections across state government and fast-track your career in public service.
- Financial support: The John Burton Scholarship covers financial gaps, such as housing, transportation, and professional attire (awarded to 3 former foster youth)
ELIGIBILITY
The John Burton Scholarship for Capital Fellows is open to individuals who have lived experience in foster care and are accepted into one of the Capital Fellows Programs at Sacramento State, which require:
- A completed bachelor’s degree by September 1st of the fellowship year.
- Either a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher or a GPA of 2.5 or higher in the last 60 (semester) or 90 (quarter) units.
- Applicants must be 20 years of age or older by Sept. 1 of the fellowship year.
- Non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of appropriate immigration status. The program does not meet the requirements for F-1 or J-1 visas, nor any work permits requiring participation in the E-verify system.
- Applicants must be prepared for full-time employment, Monday – Friday.
IMPORTANT DATES & NEXT STEPS
- Information Session: Join JBAY, Sacramento State, and a former Capital Fellow for a virtual information session on September 10, 2026 – Register here
- Applications for the Capital Fellows Programs Open: August 31, 2026 – Apply here*
- Application Deadline: November 10, 2026, at 11:50 p.m. PST
*To be considered for the John Burton Scholarship, respond to the question on the Capital Fellows application that asks about foster care experience. There is no separate scholarship application.