John Adams Fellows
The John Adams Fellowship is a two-week intellectual boot camp at Clemson University designed for Ph.D. students and recent Ph.D.s in politics, history or philosophy programs who are interested in studying the American Revolutionary and Founding periods.
A $12,000 stipend will be awarded to all Fellows to cover expenses, including housing, dining and flights. Housing for all Fellows will be located on Clemson University's campus.
Fellowship dates: July 19-Aug. 1, 2026
Application deadline: Feb. 1, 2026
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About the Fellowship
The aim of this fellowship is to introduce graduate students and recently graduated Ph.D.s to the key ideas and thinkers of the American Founding period. John Adams Fellows spend two intensive weeks studying the primary and secondary literature on the American Founding, participating in both seminars and attending lectures. Fellows also participate in professional development sessions to begin their preparation to teach and engage in research on the American Founding. Graduates of the program will be a part of a wider network of scholars and teachers concerned both with understanding the principles of the Founding and teaching those ideas broadly in American education.
Have more questions?
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Should I apply to the John Adams Fellows program?
Students who meet all of the following 3 criteria are strongly encouraged to apply:
- Students who will be enrolled in an accredited Ph.D. program during the upcoming academic year or have recently completed a Ph.D. in philosophy, history, or political science.
- Students who are able to commit to attending the entirety of the program from July 19 to Aug. 1, 2026.
- Students who have a research or teaching interest that would benefit from a greater understanding of the American Revolutionary and Founding periods.
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I am planning on enrolling in a Ph.D. program in the fall of 2026. Can I still apply?
Yes. Acceptance to the program is conditional on enrollment in an accredited Ph.D. program during the year of participation in the John Adams Fellows program.
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How do I apply?
To apply to the John Adams Fellows program, click the "Apply Today!" button and complete the application, which consists of general information, education history, short-answer questions and a CV upload.
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I have submitted my application. When can I expect to hear back regarding a decision?
Application review will take place after the Feb. 1, 2026, deadline. You can expect to hear from us by March 1.
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My discipline is not one of those you have listed (history, philosophy, political science). Am I still eligible?
Yes. Ph.D. students from any discipline who have a research or teaching interest that would benefit from a greater understanding of key writings in the American Revolutionary and Founding periods are encouraged to apply.
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As a Fellow, what am I required to do?
As a Fellow, you are required to attend the entirety of the John Adams Fellows program in person from July 19-Aug. 1, 2026. Additionally, all Fellows are required to complete the course readings and actively participate in the program.
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Will the Snow Institute be providing the readings and other learning materials to all Fellows?
Yes, the Institute will provide all readings and learning materials.
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What is the schedule for the two-week program?
The program's schedule is in progress and will be sent to accepted Fellows via email in due course. Expect most weekdays to consist of two seminars and two lectures, as well as an evening activity. Weekends are predominantly free.
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I applied to be a John Adams Fellow this year but was not accepted. Can I apply again next year?
Yes, we encourage you to apply again next year.
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How will the $12,000 stipend be distributed to Fellows?
Fellows are responsible for any applicable taxes on the stipend provided through the John Adams Fellows program. Expect the stipend to be distributed in three steps:
- A portion of your stipend (approximately $1200 -1500) will be used by SISC to pay for housing and meals on Clemson's campus for all Fellows.
- Once the flight is confirmed and the receipt is sent to SISC, $1,500 of the stipend will be sent to the Fellow.
- The remainder of the stipend will be paid within six weeks of completing the program.
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I have additional questions about the John Adams Fellows program. What should I do?
Contact us with any additional questions at capitalism@clemson.edu.
