Deadline:
September 18, 2025
Location(s)
United States of America
Overview
Bearing the Presidential moniker, the PMF Program is a flagship leadership development program at the entry level for advanced degree candidates. It was created more than three decades ago by Executive Order and has gone through many changes over the years.
The Program attracts and selects the best candidates possible, but is really designed with a more narrow focus - developing a cadre of potential government leaders. It provides some sustenance during the first years of employment and encourages development of leadership capabilities. The PMF Program inculcates a lasting bond as well as a spirit of public service, ultimately encouraging and leading to a career in the government. As a PMF, you can take your experience anywhere you want to go with your career. Many PMFs have continued their Federal service; many others have gone to the private sector, academia and the nonprofit world.
Details
What Will You Give?
You will give the best you have to give to a cause greater than yourself. You will bring fresh, new ideas and a willingness to take on challenges never dreamed possible. Your zeal for the position will serve to spark new energy and excitement in your co-workers. As part of the PMF "fraternal order," you will portray your elite status through the quality of your work and service to your country. You will need to demonstrate leadership, foster teamwork, set goals and, in the end, deliver something of value to the American people.
What Will You Get?
In addition to salary and benefits, the PMF Program gives you a lot in return for your hard work. Your two-year appointment will provide a fast-paced opportunity to gain experience and develop your talents. You will be challenged with opportunities to flourish into a problem solver, strategic thinker and future leader. In addition to working at a single Federal agency, you may have the option to participate in a rotational opportunity at another agency. These rotational opportunities will challenge you even further and give you insight into how other areas of government operate.
While serving as a PMF, you will receive:
- 160 hours of formal interactive training (on leadership, management, policy and other topics)
- Challenging work assignments
- Feedback on your work
- At least one 4 to 6 month developmental assignment
- Potential for promotions and career ladders
- Upon certification of completion, which permits immediate noncompetitive conversion to a permanent or term position and carries prestige anywhere you go thereafter
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
-
If you will meet all advanced degree requirements (even though you have not necessarily graduated), including the completion or successful defense of any required thesis or dissertation, you may be eligible to apply.
Eligibility is based on completion of advanced degree requirements by August 31st of the following year of the annual application.
- OR -
If you have completed an advanced degree from a qualifying college or university during the previous two years from the opening date of the PMF Program's annual application announcement, you are eligible to apply.
- NOTE: Individuals who previously applied to the program, but were not selected as a Finalist, may reapply if they meet eligibility requirements; you will need to create a new applicant user account. Current Finalists who have not obtained a PMF appointment may apply for the next PMF application; however, they will forfeit their status as a current Finalist upon initiating an application and initiating the on-line assessment.
Dates
Deadline: September 18, 2025
Cost/funding for participants
The PMF Program is a paid program. While in the program you will receive full salary and benefits just like any other Federal employee. In addition, you may be eligible for repayment of your student loans or other recruitment incentives depending on the agency.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
