We are looking for the next generation of innovators who have demonstrated remarkable accomplishment and outstanding potential to positively affect the world.
Who should apply
We are looking for an eclectic, heterogeneous group of young thinkers and doers from the fields of technology, entertainment, design, the sciences, engineering, humanities, the arts, economics, business, journalism, entrepreneurship and NGOs.
At TED, we can take risks on unconventional innovators. We value achievement over credentials -- making and doing over merely talking.
We are targeting applicants of ages 21-40 from five target regions: Africa, Asia/Pacific, the Caribbean, Latin America, the Middle East. However, anyone over the age 18 from around the world is welcome to apply.
How to apply
To apply to become a TED Fellow, please complete the application form in its entirety. (Before beginning the application, please review our applications tips and our terms and conditions.)
In addition to basic details and contact information, the application asks applicants to answer essay questions and provide three references. Applications must be received complete and on time to be considered.
The application cycles for TED and TEDGlobal are different. Applicants apply to one conference.
The selection process
TED Fellows are selected by the program staff.
Once a year, an international selection committee meets to select the TED Senior Fellows for the following year.
The selection committee is comprised of people who represent the breadth of interest and achievement that makes up the TED community. Committee members bring experiences from various fields and come from countries representing our target regions. Selections are made by the group as a whole, not by individuals.
The application process
Due to the volume of applications, incomplete and late applications cannot be considered.
Misrepresentation of information on the application will result in immediate disqualification.
Privacy note: All application content will remain strictly confidential and will be used for internal review and communication purposes only; we will never share your information with a third party. References are also submitted in complete confidence.
Non-discrimination policy
TED is committed to the principle of equal opportunity.
TED does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, veteran or refugee status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its fellowship opportunities.
During the fellowship
All Fellows must attend all pre-conference and conference events. Late arrival and early departure from the conference are grounds for dismissal.
Any behavior that could bring discredit to the TED Fellows program is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program at TED's sole discretion.
Conference attendance is non-transferable. If a Fellow or Senior Fellow is unable to attend a conference, no one may attend in the Fellow's place.
All pre-conference and conference related events are intended for Fellows and conference attendees only. We cannot accommodate spouses, children or friends.
Upon acceptance into the TED Senior Fellows Program, individuals will be asked to sign a contract outlining the conditions of the Fellowship. Various stipulations of the contract include: intent to fully participate in four pre-conferences and conferences (TED and TEDGlobal) over the subsequent two years. TED must be notified no later than 90 days prior to the conference if a Senior Fellow will be missing. Failure to attend one conference without notice will result in immediate removal from the program. Exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
TED pays for round-trip economy airfare, ground transportation to and from the conference location, and meals and shared accommodation on site. TED does not cover hotel incidental expenses.
In addition to the above terms and conditions, all Fellows and Senior Fellows must comply with all terms and conditions of TED registration, as well as TED.com terms of use.
Upcoming TED Fellows application dates
There are two admission cycles per year: one for TED in Long Beach and one for TEDGlobal in Oxford (with the exception of an additional cycle in 2009 with TEDIndia). We will accept 25 Fellows to each conference.
TED
TED2011 Conference timeline:
June 21, 2010 - TED2011 Fellows applications OPEN
August 20, 2010 - TED2011 Fellows applications CLOSE
TED in Oxford
2011 TEDGlobal Conference timeline:
January 17, 2011 - TEDGlobal 2011 applications OPEN
March 11, 2011 - TEDGlobal 2011 applications CLOSE
Application form
Application tips
Program FAQ
More information here.
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