Introduction
In a country where millions still seek the comfort of a secure home, where cities expand faster than they can sustain, and where the climate crisis challenges the very ground we build upon, the role of the architect stands at a crossroads. Architecture today demands more than creativity; it calls for empathy for communities, for the environment, and for the human stories that give meaning to space.
While architectural education equips students with technical and creative skills, opportunities to understand these larger realities remain limited. The Arcause Impact Fellowship Program has been established to bridge this gap by creating learning experiences that connect design with practice.
Why this Fellowship ?
Building upon the Arcause Social Internship Program, the Fellowship extends the idea of learning. It encourages participants to engage with the questions, systems, processes, and people that shape them.
The first cohort of the Arcause Social Internship Program brought together seven interns with organisations working closely with communities across India. Their journeys reaffirmed the value of learning through practice while also highlighting the need for a more intentional framework—one that combines project work with mentorship, reflection, interdisciplinary exposure, and a deeper understanding of the systems that influence design. Find out more here: link. This evolution gives rise to the Arcause Impact Fellowship.
The program draws strength from the Ethos Foundation’s six verticals:
ADaR (access to design), SAaTh (Sustainable Practices), UDita (inclusive society), Sva-Des (Design Literacy), BoDh (Traditional Wisdom), and ShramA (Hands that Build). By connecting design education with social purpose, the Arcause Social Internships aim to nurture a new generation of architects
Because the future of architecture will not be defined by those who design faster or build taller, but by those who design with care, for people, for place, and for the planet we all call home.
Experiential Learning Opportunity :
Students and young professionals are placed with partner organisations across India to gain meaningful exposure to community-based projects, socially responsive design practices, and interdisciplinary ways of working while continuing their academic journey.
Check out previous placements: Link
Program Duration
- The duration of each placement may vary depending on the host organisation and project requirements.
- Typical duration: 6 months
- Full-time and part-time opportunities may both be available.
- Some specialised fellowships may have different engagement periods depending on project scope.
How to Apply ?
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- Interested applicants are required to submit:
- Online Application Form
- Portfolio or selected work samples
- Statement of Purpose
- Resume / CV
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be matched with suitable partner organisations based on project requirements and mutual alignment.
Eligibility:
- Students currently in their 4th or 5th year of Architecture or Design
- Gap-year students
- Students seeking Full-time, Part-time, Summer, or Winter internships
- Recent graduates (within 3 years of graduation)
- Young professionals interested in expanding their practice beyond conventional architectural roles
- Applicants demonstrating curiosity, initiative, and an interest in social, environmental, or public-impact work
Our Fellows
M K Roopika
Gramiyo Foundation, Goa
6 Months Fellowship
Lakshit Pathak
Social Design Collaborative, New Delhi
6 Months Internship
Sridharan Rajesh
Karigarshala, Gujarat
6 Months Fellowship
Benefits for Fellows
Placement
Placements with impact organisations across India.
Mentorship
Guidance from architects and impact practitioners.
Real-World Learning
Opportunity to engage with communities, institutions, and policy processes
Networking
Access to the Arcause Impact Network, with pathways to future fellowships, research opportunities, and impact-driven careers.
Certification
Professional certification from Ethos Foundation and the Partner Organisation.
Portfolio Enrichment
Documented project work, research, and community engagement.
Perspective shift
A deeper understanding of how design can drive social change.
Monthly Stipend
Fellows will receive a monthly stipend supported by Ethos Arcause.
Important Pointers for Applicants
1
Stipend & Expenses
The stipend does not cover accommodation or travel. Interns are required to arrange their own stay and travel during the fellowship period.
2
Institutional Consent
Students must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their institution head, approving participation in the Arcause Social Internship Program which is a part of the Arcause Impact Fellowship Program.
3
Fellowship Duration
The maximum fellowship duration is up to six months, varying by host organisation requirements. For young professionals, it depends on project needs, and some placements may be shorter based on timelines and scope.
4
Placement Alignment
Fellows will be placed with partner organisations only when their learning goals align with the organisation’s projects, ensuring a meaningful learning experience.
5
Documentation & Reporting
Fellows must submit periodic progress reports, photographs, and a final reflection report highlighting their learnings and project contributions.
6
Certification
On successful completion, fellows will receive a certificate from Ethos Foundation | Arcause and the Partner organization.
