D.C. Global Leadership Forum

D.C. Global Leadership Forum

The D.C. Global Leadership Forum is an immersive opportunity for IU students to engage with government agencies, international organizations, think tanks, and leading professionals in Washington, D.C. The program is offered in fall, spring, and summer, with distinct experiences tailored to each term:

  • Fall & spring semesters: Students take four HLS courses with IU faculty and practitioners, earning IU credit while gaining real-world experience through internships and professional engagement. 
  • Summer program: Students participate in high-level policy discussions, site visits, and networking opportunities with leaders in Washington, D.C., but do not receive IU course credit.

Now accepting applications for Summer, Fall & Spring AY 25/26!

Earn IU credit in fall & spring or participate in high-level policy discussions in summer.

Apply now

Academic experience in Washington, D.C.

The D.C. Global Leadership Forum provides students with a unique opportunity to live and learn in Washington, D.C., while staying on track toward their degree.  

Fall & spring semesters 

Students enroll in four HLS courses taught by IU faculty and D.C.-based practitioners, gaining in-depth knowledge while applying their learning in real-world settings through internship placements or practicums. 

Courses offered: 

  • INTL-I310: Advanced Topics in Diplomacy, Security, and Governance
  • INTL-I340: Ethics and Decision-Making in International Politics
  • INTL-I300 / SGIS-S300: Global Issues
  • SGIS-X373: Internship/Practicum in Global and International Studies

Summer program

The Summer Global Leadership Forum is a non-credit program designed for students seeking professional engagement and policy exposure in Washington, D.C. Instead of coursework, summer participants will:

  • Attend policy discussions with top government and industry leaders
  • Participate in site visits to agencies, think tanks, and embassies
  • Engage in networking and career development events

Program costs

Fall and spring semester costs: 

For the fall and spring semesters, students pay regular IU tuition plus the direct costs of housing in DC.  While day-to-day expenses in Washington, D.C., may be higher, the core costs of accommodations remain in line with a typical semester on campus. In addition, students may use their existing IU Scholarships and regular student financial aid for the fall and spring semesters.

Summer Program Costs:

The Summer program has a different cost structure since it does not include IU course enrollment. The program has a program fee of $1,500. Students should budget for housing, meals, and personal expenses while participating in D.C. activities.

Scholarships:

Additional scholarships are available to all IU students participating in the program. Applicants will be automatically considered for all scholarships associated with the program.

Application deadlines

Applications for the D.C. Global Leadership Forum are accepted on a rolling basis. However, priority deadlines apply:

  • Summer program: February 1 (rolling thereafter)
  • Fall semester: March 1 (rolling thereafter)
  • Spring semester: October 1 (rolling thereafter)

Lee Feinstein

The D.C. Global Leadership Forum is led by Ambassador Lee Feinstein, Founding Dean of the Hamilton Lugar School. Amb. Feinstein is President of McLarty Associates.