Apply to the International Career Advancement Program (ICAP)

Each year, the ICAP Selection Committee reviews applications from across the United States to identify a highly competitive cohort of 24 to 40 exceptional mid-career professionals working in international affairs and related fields. Applicants are evaluated for their leadership potential, what they have thus far accomplished, their commitment to mentoring others, and dedication to global affairs. Successful candidates demonstrate outstanding personal and professional achievements, strong recommendations, and a clear alignment with ICAP’s mission to cultivate capable, ethical, and globally minded leaders.

What is the Application Process?

ICAP is now accepting applications for the 2026 Cohort!

To apply, applicants must complete and submit the official online application form.

Application Deadline: June 22, 2026

An application is considered complete only when:

  • The Google Form has been fully completed and submitted
  • Two letters of recommendation have been received by ICAP by the application deadline.

Please note that saving a draft does not constitute submission. Be sure to click the Submit button at the end of the form to ensure your application is officially received.

WHO ICAP SEEKS

ICAP is designed for accomplished mid-career professionals who demonstrate both excellence in their fields and a deep sense of purpose in expanding participation in global affairs.. Particiants—known as ICAP Fellows—share a common commitment to fostering constructive international engagement through effective leadership, informed decision-making, and collaboration.

ICAP Fellows are more than professionals, they are community builders who lead with integrity, uphold democratic values, and seek to uplift others. They share knowledge, resources, and opportunities generously, contributing not only to their institutions but also the broader ICAP community. After completing the program, Fellows remain engaged through ICAPFA, applying what they’ve learned to strengthen a network of mentorship, service, and shared growth.

The program encourages applicants from a wide range of sectors—including government, nonprofits, academia, the private sector, and international organizations—recognizing that diverse perspectives strengthen U.S. engagement and leadership in global affairs.

IDEAL CANDIDATES ARE

  • U.S. citizens or permanent residents 

  • Professionals with five or more years of relevant experience 

  • Individuals with a graduate-level education or equivalent professional training

  • Proficient in at least one language other than English or other skills indicating a commitment to international service

  • Committed to supporting fellow ICAP participants and mentoring emerging professionals 

  • Grounded in democratic principles and devoted to public service and ethical leadership

DATES FOR ICAP 2026:

February 2026 - Applications are Open

June 22, 2026 - Application deadline

July 2026 - Application Notifications

August or September 2026 - Washington D.C. Introduction Program

September or October 2026 - Aspen Program

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Complete the online Google Form application by the deadline

  • Complete all required sections, including:

    • Biographical information
    • Essay responses
    • A current CV or resume
    • Summary of relevant skills and experiences

  • Ensure that letters of recommendation are emailed directly to icap@du.edu by the application deadline or are received by that date at ICAP/Korbel School, University of Denver, 2201 South Gaylord, Denver, CO 80208

COSTS INVOLVED

Participation in ICAP may be funded through either employer sponsorship or an ICAP Fellowship or a combination.

 The cost in 2026 per Fellow, not including travel, is $11,000.

Employer Sponsorship

Many participants are supported by their employer or supporters, who cover the cost of program participation. The funder would determine whether the participant is responsible for travel expenses to Washington, D.C., and Aspen, Colorado. To arrange such a sponsorship, ICAP must be notified before application deadline. A position in the program can then be reserved for a qualified candidate.

ICAP Fellowships

For applicants without employer sponsorship, ICAP offers a limited number of fellowships to ensure access to the program.

  • Full Fellowship: Covers the full cost of participation in the program, including lodging and meals in Aspen. Travel expenses to and from Washington, D.C. and Aspen, Colorado, are the responsibility of the participant.
  • Partial Fellowship: Provides partial financial support toward the program participation. Funding may be divided among the Fellow, their employer, or private donor with travel expenses to Washington, D.C. and Aspen, Colorado remaining the responsibility of the participant.

Contact Us 

General Inquiries 

Email: ICAP@du.edu

For questions regarding applications, program logistics, or sponsorships: ICAP@du.edu

Program Coordination and Administration

Program Coordinator: Angy.Martinez@du.edu 

Founder and Director: Tom.Rowe@du.edu 

University of Denver 

Josef Korbel School of Global and Public Affairs

2201 S Gaylord Street Denver, CO 80208

Empower Leaders. Shape the Future.

As ICAP looks ahead, one truth remains clear: the demand for thoughtful, ethical, and capable leadership in global affairs drawn from all segments of the US population has never been greater.

If you’re prepared to take the next step in your career and build the skills to serve the highest levels of U.S. leadership in global affairs, apply to become an ICAP Fellow.

Your generosity helps shape the future of U.S. leadership. Support ICAP fellowships that empower rising professionals to lead with integrity, vision, and impact—strengthening America’s voice in the world.