If you’ve ever dreamed of launching a career where your work directly improves people’s health—especially in underserved communities—the APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Fellowship might be your golden ticket. Announced for the 2026–2027 cycle, this prestigious fellowship offers recent and soon-to-be graduates a rare chance to gain hands-on experience in public health, health equity, and community engagement—all while receiving generous support and mentorship from two of the most respected names in health: the American Public Health Association (APHA) and Kaiser Permanente.
APHA Kaiser Permanente Fellowship 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | APHA Kaiser Permanente Community Health Fellowship |
| Eligibility | Must earn a graduate degree between July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026 (includes current first-year med students) |
| Fellowship Period | September 2026 – September 2027 (12 months, full-time) |
| Stipend | $120,000 (paid in monthly installments) |
| Application Opens | Early January 2026 (expected around January 6, 2026) |
| Deadline | February 12, 2026 (based on 2025 cycle; confirm when live) |
| Number of Fellows | ~12–15 nationwide |
| Focus Areas | Health equity, community health, social determinants of health, public health policy |
| Placement Sites | Kaiser Permanente regions (e.g., Northern California, Georgia, Colorado) |
| Official Website | APHA Fellowship |
I’ve mentored dozens of early-career professionals navigating fellowship applications, and this one consistently stands out. Why? Because it’s not just about funding—it’s about real impact. Fellows don’t spend their year fetching coffee; they lead high-stakes community health initiatives, design equity-centered programs, and build networks that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a college senior eyeing public health school or a medical student passionate about social justice, this opportunity could shape your entire career trajectory.
What Is the APHA Kaiser Permanente Fellowship?
Imagine being paid $120,000 to spend a year tackling food insecurity in Oakland, improving mental health access in Atlanta, or reducing maternal mortality in rural Colorado. That’s the essence of this fellowship.
Launched through a partnership between APHA—the oldest and largest public health association in the U.S.—and Kaiser Permanente, the nation’s largest integrated nonprofit health system, this program bridges theory and practice. Fellows work on-site at Kaiser Permanente community health departments, designing and implementing projects that address root causes of health disparities.
Unlike traditional internships, this is a leadership development experience. You’ll collaborate with public health directors, engage community organizations, and present findings to executive teams. It’s public health in the real world—messy, meaningful, and deeply human.
Who Should Apply?
You don’t need a PhD or years of experience. In fact, the program is designed for emerging leaders at the very start of their careers.
Ideal candidates include:
- Graduate students in public health (MPH), social work (MSW), nursing (MSN), health policy, or urban planning.
- Medical students between their first and second year (the fellowship aligns with your summer break).
- Recent grads whose degrees will be conferred between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
- Individuals with demonstrated commitment to health equity, especially through volunteer work, research, or advocacy.
If you’ve ever organized a campus food drive, written a policy brief on Medicaid expansion, or interned at a community health center—you’ve got relevant experience. The selection committee values passion, curiosity, and community orientation over a perfect résumé.
Key Benefits: More Than Just a Stipend
Yes, the $120,000 stipend is life-changing—especially compared to unpaid or low-paid public health roles. But the real value lies in what you gain beyond money:
- Mentorship from APHA and Kaiser Permanente leaders.
- Professional development in project management, data analysis, and community engagement.
- Networking at APHA’s Annual Meeting (attendance is covered).
- Career launchpad: Over 85% of past fellows secure full-time roles in public health within 6 months.
Think of it as a 12-month apprenticeship with national health leaders—with a salary that lets you focus on impact, not rent.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply (Your Action Plan)
Applying can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it manageable. Here’s your roadmap:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility (Fall 2025)
- Ensure your degree conferral date falls between July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026.
- If you’re a medical student, you must be entering Year 2 in summer 2026.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials (Dec 2025 – Jan 2026)
You’ll need:
- Résumé (highlight community/public health experience)
- Official transcript
- Two letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional preferred)
- Personal statement (500–750 words)
Step 3: Submit Early (Jan–Feb 2026)
- Application opens ~January 6, 2026.
- Deadline: Likely February 12, 2026 (based on past cycles—double-check when live).
- Submit via the APHA Fellowship Portal.
Step 4: Interview & Placement (March–May 2026)
- Top candidates are invited for virtual interviews.
- Selected fellows are matched with Kaiser Permanente regions based on skills and interests.
Step 5: Orientation & Fellowship Launch (Sept 2026)
- Begins with a virtual onboarding, then in-person work at your site.
Why This Fellowship Matters in Today’s World
Public health is at a crossroads. After the pandemic, 72% of Americans say they trust public health professionals more than before—yet funding and workforce shortages persist. Programs like this fellowship rebuild that trust from the ground up.
Kaiser Permanente alone invests $2.7 billion annually in community health initiatives. By placing fellows directly in these efforts, the program ensures fresh perspectives shape how resources are used—making interventions more effective, inclusive, and sustainable.
FAQs about APHA Kaiser Permanente Fellowship 2026
Q: Can international students apply?
A: Only U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or individuals with work authorization are eligible.
Q: Is the $120,000 taxable?
A: Yes. It’s reported as income, so plan accordingly (consider speaking with a tax advisor).
Q: Do I choose my placement location?
A: You’ll rank preferences during the interview stage, but final placement depends on project needs and fit.
Q: What if I graduate in May 2026? Am I eligible?
A: Yes! As long as your degree is conferred by June 30, 2026, you qualify.
Q: Are there post-fellowship opportunities at Kaiser Permanente?
A: Many fellows are offered full-time roles, though it’s not guaranteed. The experience itself opens doors across public health.
