TED Fellows program

Twice a year, the TED Fellows program opens applications to find a new class of extraordinary thinkers and doers. Though we target innovators aged 21 to 40, we encourage anyone over 18 years old to apply.

Application cycle dates

Each year we open two application cycles: one for TED and one for TEDGlobal. Each application cycle has an opening and closing date – you may only apply to be a Fellow between the opening and closing dates. We do not accept applications during the dates that fall outside of the application cycle window.

Dates for the TED application cycle is as follows:

TED application cycle
Opening date: June
Closing date: July

TED Global application cycle
Opening date: October
Closing date: November

Who should apply

We look for different applicants than many other leadership-oriented programs. Instead of business people, professionals, policy wonks and government officials, the TED Fellows program focuses on doers, makers, inventors, advocates, filmmakers and photographers, musicians and artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, NGO heads, and human rights activists.

In addition to impressive accomplishment, fine character and a good heart are two very important traits we look for in a every potential TED Fellow. More than anything, this focus on character has defined the success of the TED Fellows program.