Become a PMF
Application Process
Applying is only the first step
The PMF Program accepts applications annually. When the application window opens, you will find an announcement on USAJOBS at www.USAJOBS.gov by searching the key words "Presidential Management Fellows". The announcement will contain a link to create an applicant user account on the Apply Site of the PMF TMS (Talent Management System); you do not need a USAJOBS user account to apply.
We strongly encourage you to review the entire Become A PMF section of this website, including the Frequently Asked Questions.
Applying to the Program is only the first step in becoming a PMF. Individuals who meet the eligibility requirements apply in the Fall.
During the application process, you must take an on-line assessment and submit a resume and transcript; additional information about resumes and transcripts can be found under the Application Tips section. Within a few weeks after the application closes, we will review applicants for eligibility, complete applications, and assessment scores.
Top qualifying applicants will be selected as Finalists. Finalists are eligible for appointment as a Fellow with a participating Federal agency.
For technical support during the application process, please select the "Help" link in the upper right-hand corner (on the blue menu bar) on the Apply Site. You will be redirected to the Application Help webpage; which will be updated to reflect help instructions during the application process.
For more information on this year's application, including a timeline, visit the 2021 Application page. The PMF Program Office hosts several informational webinars for prospective applicants prior to the application. Any such webinars will be listed on the Application page and/or posted to the News & Events section.
System and Browser Requirements
The browser requirements and settings for the systems used during the application and on-line assessment process appear below. To prevent inconsistencies and any technical problems, applicants should refrain from using other browsers not supported.
It is recommended that you clear your cache by deleting your browser history under your Tools/Internet Options menu before creating a user account and applying to the program.
In order for the application and on-line assessment to display and function properly on your computer, we recommend the following:
- Use a broadband internet connection. Dial-up connections affect the performance of the system and are not recommended.
- Use one of the following recommended browsers:
- Google Chrome (version 77 or higher),
- Safari (version 12 or higher),
- Microsoft Edge (version 44 or higher),
- Mozilla Firefox (version 69 or higher), or
- Internet Explorer (version 11 or higher).
- Enable JavaScript and Cookies.
- Disable Pop-up blockers.
The system requirements needed for the on-line assessment can also be found in the Assessment Preparation Guide; which are the same as above. Depending on the browser you are using, you may not see some icons during the application; this may be caused by your browser's Compatibility View. You may want to use other browsers (e.g., Google Chrome). You can also go to www.whatismybrowser.com to check your browser and version.
Document File Types
The following outlines the document file types accepted during the application process:
- File format must be in gif image (.gif), jpeg image (.jpg), png image (.png), rich text format (.rtf), Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx), Adobe pdf (.pdf), or Word Perfect (.wpd)
- File size must not exceed 3MB (megabytes) per file
- File must not include macros, passwords, expirations, or scripts of any kind
Please avoid using spaces or special characters as part of the file name when uploading as part of the application (e.g., "university transcript.pdf") or periods or commas; instead, use an underscore or dash (e.g. " _ ", "-"). Any file uploaded with spaces in the file name will automatically be converted to show underscores.
NOTE: Please do not submit any letters of recommendation or any documents containing photos. All documents must be accessible, legible, and in English.
Contact Information
When creating an applicant user account to apply to the PMF Program, please ensure the email address you provide is current and accessible throughout the application, assessment, and selection process. Follow the instructions on the login screen if you have forgotten your password. You will be prompted to enter personal contact information. Please avoid using dashes, commas, apostrophes, or other special characters in the name fields.
When an applicant creates their applicant user account, an automated email is sent to the applicant to validate their email address. The automated email comes from no-reply@apply.pmf.gov.
You do not need to create and use a USAJOBS applicant account to apply to the PMF Program.
During the application period, sending email is the best way to communicate with the PMF Program Office. Therefore, please provide a current email address in your application that you can access throughout the application, assessment, and selection processes.
Please consider using a third-party email provider instead of your school or work email address, as many of these email servers block our emails. We recommend that you add the following email addresses to your "safe" or "allowed email list" and email address book: pmf@opm.gov, pmfapplication@opm.gov, no-reply@apply.pmf.gov, and no-reply@portal.pmf.gov.
Any emails from Applicants, Finalists, and Fellows should be sent to pmfapplication@opm.gov.
Visit the next section to view information on Application Tips.
UPDATED: 09-29-2020