The Beyond the Bars Fellowship offers students and community members an interdisciplinary leadership development program to deepen and expand their identity, analysis, skills and network towards ending mass criminalization and incarceration and to create a more just and safe world through restorative, transformative, healing, and human justice practices.
When is the Application Deadline:
📅 August 15, 2025
🏆 Tell Me About The Award:
The Beyond the Bars Fellowship at Columbia University is a leadership development program for students and community members impacted by incarceration or committed to justice reform. It equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and networks to challenge mass incarceration and contribute to restorative, transformative, and healing justice.
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📚 Which Fields are Eligible?
The program is interdisciplinary—open to all fields, with a focus on:
- Social justice
- Criminal legal reform
- Community organizing
- Policy advocacy
- Human rights
🗂 Type:
Fellowship (non-degree, leadership development)
👥 Who can Apply?
- Students from any academic background
- Community members, especially those impacted by incarceration
- Individuals passionate about social justice and ending mass incarceration
(No prior experience required)
✅ How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are selected through:
- Online application submission
- Group interviews (August 25 – September 5, 2025)
- Final selection notification by September 12, 2025
🌍 Which Countries Are Eligible?
Open to local and international applicants. Anyone able to participate in person at Columbia University (New York) is welcome to apply.
📍 Where will the Award be Taken?
Columbia School of Social Work (CSSW), New York, USA
In-person weekly sessions from October 2025 – May 2026
🔢 How Many Awards?
Not specified. Selection is based on merit and fit with the program’s mission.
🎁 What is the Benefit of the Award?
- In-person leadership seminars and guest lectures
- Training in community organizing, policy advocacy, and justice reform
- Collaborative project with partner justice organizations
- Supportive community to explore identity and purpose
- Final team project presentation with real-world impact
⏳ How Long Will the Award Last?
🗓 October 7, 2025 – May 2026 (approximately 8 months)
📝 How to Apply:
Submit the application form and required responses online before August 15, 2025. Group interviews will follow on a rolling basis.
