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CanStudyUS Fellowship

An annual study experience that provides young leaders with insights into U.S. policy-making and politics.

September 2024 to April 2025

Study experience: October 14–19, 2024

Four U.S. cities: Detroit, Ann Arbor, Akron and Pittsburgh

$600 + HST

Eligibility: Prior completion of the CanStudyUS Virtual Fellowship, aged 20 - 35

This hybrid program is for alumni of the virtual fellowship programs. A small group embarks on an immersive study journey to the U.S., followed by each fellow leading a community project when they return to Canada. Fellows meet with leaders, think tank experts, civil servants, and academics for firsthand insights into U.S. public policy. To take part in the fellowship, interested candidates who have previously completed the CanStudyUS Virtual Fellowship are required to apply using the online application form.




Want to learn more about the Home and Away fellowship experience? Check out the highlights from 2023!




About the Fellowship

Canada’s relationship with the U.S. is crucial, sharing the world’s longest border and the second-largest trading partnership. As global dynamics evolve, understanding this relationship is increasingly vital for Canada’s future leaders and policymakers.

The Dais’ CanStudyUS Fellowship, established in 2018, offers young Canadian leaders a chance to explore current affairs and public policies of both countries. 

We encourage young Canadian leaders aged 20-35 to participate in the Virtual Fellowship to build your understanding of the bilateral relations between Canada and the United States. Then, apply for the Home and Away Fellowship to visit the U.S. and learn from leaders and experts.



Missed this year’s Virtual Fellowship?
Apply now for the CanStudyUS 2025 Virtual Fellowship to be eligible for future Home and Away experiences. 

8 weeks from Jan 10 to Feb 28

Live virtual sessions

Learn from experts and leaders from the US and Canada

Every Friday from 1-3 pm

Eligibility: Students and young professionals based in Canada between the ages of 20-35 by the application deadline

Running in January and February 2025, up to 85 fellows will convene weekly for interactive panel discussions with Canadian and U.S. experts. Participants engage with speakers, participate in small group discussions, and on completion, will receive a LinkedIn badge and a certificate.

What You’ll Gain

A deeper understanding of bilateral relations
Each session will feature a summary of the Canada-US relationship, followed by insights from experts and leaders from both countries, offering diverse perspectives on key policy issues. Fellows will be able to pose questions to the speakers to increase their understanding of the nuances of each topic.

Insights into current and future trends
Explore emerging trends and challenges shaping the political, economic, and social landscapes of Canada and the United States. Engage with thought leaders and industry experts to gain valuable perspectives on future developments in areas such as technology, sustainability, and governance. 

A national network of ambitious peers
Connect with a diverse group of like-minded peers from across Canada who share a passion for public policy and social change. Exchange ideas and share experiences with fellow participants each week in small-group breakout rooms. Build lasting relationships and expand your professional network through a private LinkedIn group. Once you become a Fellow, you’ll join the wider CanStudyUS alumni community and have access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and discounts on the Dais’ professional development offerings.

An opportunity to be part of the next study experience in the US
Reserved for current CanStudyUS Virtual Fellows or recent alumni, the Home and Away CanStudyUS Fellowship by the Dais offers an exclusive chance to explore Canada-US public policy in depth. Immerse yourself in a multi-day experience in Washington D.C. or selected states deeply connected to bilateral relations, where you'll engage face-to-face with prominent leaders, experts, and academics. Eligibility is limited to participants and recent alumni of the virtual program. Invitations to apply will be distributed once details for the next Home and Away Fellowship are confirmed, anticipated in late 2024.

All Fellows who attend at least six of the eight live sessions will receive a certificate and a LinkedIn badge to acknowledge the skills they have gained through the program.


Meet the Fellowship Team


Karim Bardeesy

Camara Chambers

Khushi Shah

Jillian Gonzales

Get in touch

Questions or want to learn more about the program?

Contact email address: canstudyus@torontomu.ca


Testimonials

“The speakers were all excellent and very engaging. I appreciated their unique professional and personal experiences which were a fascinating insight into the US and Canadian political context and its different dimensions. I also just really appreciated how candid they were, and that we likely would not have had a chance to connect with them if the program wasn’t delivered virtually."

“A phenomenal opportunity to learn, grow and engage with others.”

“I really enjoyed hearing first-hand insights and experience from leaders working in various sectors. Also, getting to connect with the other fellows has been incredible and I look forward to continuing to build these relationships outside of the fellowship!”