Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF)


Program Overview

Bearing the Presidential Seal, the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) Program is the Federal Government’s premier leadership development program for advanced degree holders across all academic disciplines. Since 1977, the PMF Program has matched outstanding recent graduates with a Master’s or higher degree with exciting Federal opportunities. The program is geared towards those recent grads with a master's or above, or those students who are expected to graduate within a few months of the announcement closing date.

The PMF Program offers a unique leadership training ground. Selected fellows will perform valuable service to the American people while jumpstarting their career in whatever they envision that to be. The 2-year fellowship comes with full salary and benefits, challenging assignments, training and development, mentoring & an opportunity to make a difference!

Become a PMF

The PMF Program is administered by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Each year, candidates apply for the prestigious title of PMF Finalists. Selected Finalists are eligible for appointment as Fellows.

The PMF application/selection process is multi-tiered. Graduate students complete the OPM PMF application in the Fall (September/October) timeframe of the academic year in which they intend to graduate. OPM selects Finalists based on a review of written applications, and performance in group and individual interviews. Finalists must then apply directly to agency-specific appointment opportunities posted on the PMF portal.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
  • Currently enrolled at a qualifying college or university and expected to complete their advanced degree (e.g., Graduate degree, Law degree, or PhD) by August 31st of the year following the annual application OR a recent graduate who has completed an advanced degree from a qualifying college or university during the two (2) years preceding the opening date of the PMF Program’s annual application.

To Learn More

Application for the PMF Program opens on USAJobs by searching “Presidential Management Fellows.” Interested candidates should visit the OPM Presidential Management Fellows website for more information regarding the program, minimum qualifications, and more. For hints and tips on navigating the PMF application process, visit www.pathtopmf.com.

Questions about the DoD WHS PMF Program may be directed to the recruiting office.