Summary
The OpenAI Safety Fellowship 2026 invites international candidates with a strong technical and research background to apply for an opportunity focused on AI safety. This program provides a unique platform for participants to address significant concerns around AI alignment, safety, and responsible deployment.
- 🌍 OpenAI Safety Fellowship 2026: Applications open for international students in California.
- 🧑💻 Target Audience: Ideal for individuals with a strong technical or research background in AI safety, alignment, and related fields.
- 🗓 Fellowship Dates: From September 14, 2026, to February 5, 2027.
- 📅 Application Deadline: May 3, 2026, with final selections announced by July 25, 2026.
- 💼 Focus Areas: AI safety issues, robustness, privacy-preserving techniques, and monitoring autonomous AI agents.
- 💵 Financial Benefits: $3,850 per week stipend and up to $15,000/month for project support.
- 📝 Eligibility: Open to individuals with strong research skills, technical judgment, and evidence-based work; formal degrees not required.
- 🌐 Application Review: All applications will be reviewed, and candidates will be notified by July 25.
- 🏫 No Degree Requirement: The fellowship emphasizes practical skills over formal academic qualifications.
Designation
OpenAI Safety Fellow
Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Offered By | OpenAI |
| Duration | September 14, 2026 – February 5, 2027 |
| Scholarship Coverage | $3,850 per week plus project support up to $15,000 per month |
| Eligible Nationality | All Nationalities |
| Award Country | Berkeley, California |
Research Area
- AI Safety
- AI Alignment
- Privacy-Preserving Techniques
- Robustness and Monitoring of Autonomous AI Agents
Location
Berkeley, California, USA
Eligibility/Qualification
- Candidates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds are welcomed.
- Strong research skills and technical judgment are essential.
- Formal degrees are not the primary criterion; evidence of problem-solving capabilities and a track record of addressing complex safety issues are emphasized.
- Letters of recommendation are required.
Job Description
The OpenAI Safety Fellowship offers a structured path for participants to engage directly in high-stakes AI safety concerns. Fellows will:
- Work on research-driven projects.
- Address real-world AI safety challenges.
- Gain exposure to industry needs that traditional academic programs may not fulfill.
How to Apply
- Prepare your application, including a statement of interest, CV, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit your application online before the deadline.
For more information and to access the application portal, please refer to the official OpenAI website.
Last Date to Apply
May 3, 2026
This fellowship serves as a gateway for aspiring researchers and practitioners focused on the critical domain of AI safety, providing valuable exposure and resources to tackle contemporary challenges in artificial intelligence.
