The Rangel Program is a collaborative effort between Howard University and the U.S. State Department that seeks to attract and prepare outstanding young people for careers as diplomats in the Foreign Service of the U.S. Department of State. The program seeks individuals interested in helping to shape a freer, more secure and prosperous world through formulating, representing, and implementing U.S. foreign policy.

The Rangel Program offers graduate fellowships to outstanding seniors and college graduates who want to join the Foreign Service. These fellowships help finance two-year graduate programs, provide paid internships and other professional development activities, and facilitate entry into the Foreign Service for individuals who are able to complete the Foreign Service entry requirements. Candidates must be applying for admission to an eligible graduate program to begin the following fall.

The Rangel Program also hosts a six-week Summer Enrichment Program in Washington, D.C. that provides undergraduate students with an appreciation of current issues and trends in international affairs, a greater understanding of career opportunities in international affairs, and the enhanced knowledge and skills to pursue such careers. Applicants must be at least sophomores at the time of application. Graduating seniors are eligible to apply, as long as they are still enrolled as an undergraduate student at the time of application.

Both programs are competitive and seek applicants with a strong academic background, a commitment to service, and an interest in making a difference in the world around them.