Deadline: March 27, 2026

The Dr. Roger Arliner Young (RAY) Fellowship Program 2026 opens doors for recent college graduates from underrepresented communities. This two-year paid fellowship helps them start careers in conservation and clean energy. It focuses on leaders who care about equity and justice. Managed by the Environmental Leadership Program, it builds skills and networks in these fields. This guide covers the program overview, benefits, eligibility, selection criteria, and how to apply.
Program Overview
The Dr. Roger Arliner Young (RAY) Fellowship Program 2026 supports new leaders in conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. It targets recent college graduates who lack full-time professional experience or graduate degrees in these areas. The program places fellows in host organizations for two years. It stresses underrepresented communities and pushes for environmental justice, racial justice, and social change. Fellows gain tools, support, and connections to grow in the environmental field. This setup helps create a sector led by diverse voices from across the United States.
Benefits
- Full-time paid positions come with competitive entry-level salaries and standard benefits.
- Each fellow receives a $1,000 stipend for professional development opportunities.
- Coordinated training happens through RAY Partner Organizations and the Environmental Leadership Program.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Show strong interest in conservation and/or clean energy fields.
- Prove commitment to equity, environmental justice, racial justice, and social change.
- Be within three years of their undergraduate degree, graduating between April 2023 and June 2026.
- Have no prior full-time job in conservation or clean energy.
- Not have started a graduate degree.
- Be able to work in the United States and commit to the full two-year fellowship.
Selection Criteria
The program seeks applicants who show:
- Passion, skills, and potential to lead on social and environmental issues.
- Dedication to fairness, diverse views, and inclusive spaces.
- Readiness to join the fellowship, connect with others, and use its resources.
- Interest in serving their own community and the wider RAY network during and after the program.
- Strong potential to grow from the fellowship’s training and experiences.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply:
- Complete the 2026 RAY Fellowship Application Form.
- Submit proof of enrollment and your resume.
- Answer the essay questions in the application.
- Check the official RAY Fellowship site for more details.
Use this checklist to stay on track:
| Step | Action | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fill out application form | March 27, 2026 |
| 2 | Upload proof of enrollment and resume | March 27, 2026 |
| 3 | Submit essay responses | March 27, 2026 |
| 4 | Review official site | March 27, 2026 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dr. Roger Arliner Young (RAY) Fellowship Program?
It is a two-year paid fellowship for recent college graduates from underrepresented communities to gain experience in conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy while promoting environmental and social justice.
Who is eligible for the 2026 RAY Fellowship?
You qualify if you graduated from undergrad between April 2023 and June 2026, have no full-time professional experience in the field, have not started a graduate degree, and show strong interest in equity and justice.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
Fellows get full-time paid positions with competitive salaries, standard benefits, a $1,000 stipend for professional development, and coordinated training.
How do I apply for the RAY Fellowship 2026?
Complete the online application form, upload your resume and proof of enrollment, answer the essay questions, and submit everything by March 27, 2026, via the official site.

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