About us

Since 1963, the Ohio General Assembly has sponsored a 13-month, full-time, paid (salary plus benefits) legislative fellowship program. Up to 24 individuals are selected each year to participate in the fellowship, which is administered by the Legislative Service Commission (LSC), in conjunction with the Ohio House of Representatives, the Ohio Senate, and the Ohio Government Telecommunications (OGT)/The Ohio Channel. The cohort typically includes ten fellows assigned to work with members of the House, ten with members of the Senate, two with LSC, and two with OGT. Although completing the 13-month fellowship program does not guarantee permanent employment with the General Assembly or the state of Ohio, many fellows find permanent positions with the General Assembly or with state agencies as a result of participating in the fellowship program. Post-fellowship opportunities in the private sector have included positions with lobbying or public relations firms. See our Fellowship Program Brochure for additional information on the program.

What you’ll do

House or Senate Caucus Fellows:  One of the primary responsibilities for most fellows assigned to the House or Senate is to assist members with constituent outreach, including responding to inquiries from district residents when they have a problem or concern. Writing assignments might include press releases, newsletters, speeches, and committee memorandums. Fellows also research issues and perform administrative work.

Nonpartisan LSC Fellows: Fellows assigned to the nonpartisan LSC draft and analyze legislation, including a bill's fiscal effects on state and local government, conduct research to provide answers to legislative inquiries, and staff legislative committees. Depending on their applications, fellows assigned to LSC may work with the Office of Research and Drafting (ORD) and focus more on the “legal” side of legislative services or may be assigned to the Legislative Budget Office (LBO) and focus more on the “budget” side of legislative services. Fellows are assigned many of the same duties as permanent ORD and LBO staff.

If you need help with your application, email [email protected] or call (614) 466-8734.

Complete the application on this site by clicking on one of the "Apply Online" buttons located at both the top and bottom of this page. Remember to upload all of the following documents:

• Resume that includes two references listed at the end (with email addresses and telephone numbers) who can speak to your academic or employment record. LSC will contact your references seeking their comments on your work;
• Transcript from each college or university attended; and
• 500-750 word personal statement explaining why you are interested in the fellowship program and what makes you a good candidate for the program.

In the Questionnaire section of the application, remember to indicate:

1.  Your political party preference, for placement with the Ohio House or Senate Democratic or Republican caucuses.

2. Whether you wish to be considered for a nonpartisan placement with LSC only or in addition to a partisan placement. 

Minimum qualifications and characteristics of a strong candidate

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree before the program starts. There are no requirements placed on major field of study; all majors are considered. Most successful applicants have a strong academic record, and all have excellent written and oral communication skills.