Who can apply
- Current students or recent graduates in a STEM field, including software, data, engineering, mathematics, science, design and related fields.
- People living in the United States (US cohort) or the United Kingdom (UK cohort).
- Aged 18 or over by the program start.
- Able to commit fully for the whole program, mid-June to mid-August 2027, plus onboarding before the start.
- Creative, logical problem solvers with strong technical skills, an entrepreneur's drive, and the grit to finish what they start.
People from groups underrepresented in tech are strongly encouraged to apply.
Work authorization: the key rule
You do not need work authorization in hand to apply. It should be in process, and it must be confirmed by June 1, 2027.
We check early so everyone starts on time. Not sure what you need? Choose "I'd like guidance" in the application and we'll talk it through.
United States cohort
US citizens and permanent residents: you are authorized to work. You will complete Form I-9 when you accept an offer.
F-1 students: Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
- CPT is approved by your school's Designated School Official (DSO), not by NBLK.
- Your school will usually need an offer letter from us. We provide the offer letter and the role details your school asks for.
- You may not start work until your CPT is approved and listed on your Form I-20 for the fellowship dates and employer.
- Start your school's CPT process as soon as you receive an offer.
F-1 students and graduates: Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- You need your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card), valid for the full program dates. An approval notice alone does not let you start work.
- OPT applications can take several months. Apply early.
STEM OPT extension
- NBLK participates in E-Verify, which STEM OPT employers must do.
- STEM OPT also needs a Form I-983 training plan, which we complete with you and your school.
Other visa types (for example, J-1 academic training): tell us in your application and we'll review your situation.
Visa sponsorship: NBLK does not sponsor work visas for the fellowship.
About E-Verify: NBLK uses E-Verify only after an offer is accepted and Form I-9 is completed. We never use it to screen applicants. We do not discriminate based on citizenship status or national origin.
United Kingdom cohort
British and Irish citizens: you have the right to work. We check your passport or other accepted documents before you start.
Settled or pre-settled status, Graduate visa, and other visas with the right to work: you prove your right to work online with a share code from GOV.UK ("Prove your right to work to an employer").
Student visa holders
- During term time, your hours are limited, usually to 20 hours a week if you study at degree level.
- You can usually work full time only during your university's official vacation periods.
- The fellowship is full time, so the program dates must fall entirely within your official vacation. Your university can confirm your vacation dates in writing.
Visa sponsorship: NBLK Global Ltd does not sponsor work visas for the fellowship.
Key dates
- January 16, 2027, 11:59 PM New York time: applications close
- Early 2027: interviews
- Before orientation: eligibility check
- June 1, 2027: confirmed work authorization paperwork due
- Mid-June to mid-August 2027: the fellowship
Need help?
Email info@nblk.co (US) or info@nblk.co.uk (UK). Tell us early. The sooner we know, the more we can help.