How to Find an SLP Clinical Fellowship
If you’re nearing the end of your graduate program in speech-language pathology, you’ve probably heard about the Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY), which is an exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking) step toward becoming a certified speech-language pathologist (SLP).
But how exactly do you become an SLP clinical fellow? When should you apply for SLP CFY? And how do you find an SLP clinical fellowship or SLP CFY job? In this Soliant guide, learn everything you need to know to confidently navigate your CFY journey and make strides toward becoming an SLP.
How to Become an SLP Clinical Fellow
The SLP Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) is the bridge between completing your graduate degree and earning full certification as a speech-language pathologist through ASHA. As a clinical fellow during the CFY, new SLPs work under the supervision of a certified clinician, gaining real-world experience that builds on their academic training.
Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown of what it takes to officially start your SLP CFY and become a SLP clinical fellow:
- Earn Your Master’s Degree: Graduate from a CAA-accredited speech-language pathology program.
- Complete Practicum Hours: You must complete a minimum of 400 supervised clinical hours during your grad program.
- Get Your License: Earn a temporary or provisional state license (requirements vary by state)
- Apply for a CFY Position: Find a job that offers supervision by a certified SLP (CCC-SLP)and that meets ASHA’s requirements for clinical fellowship experience (for example, 1,260 hours over 36 weeks with at least 80% of time spent in direct clinical contact).
- Submit ASHA CF Application: Once you’re hired, submit your ASHA Clinical Fellowship form and pay the associated fee. Your supervisor will need to sign off on it too.
- Start Your Fellowship: You’ll work full-time, under supervision, while completing regular evaluations and reflections with your mentor.
- Submit Final Paperwork to ASHA: After your fellowship, your supervisor will verify completion, and you’re eligible to apply for your CCCs.
How to Find an SLP CFY Opportunity
Finding the right CFY placement is key to starting your career on the right foot. Here’s where to look:
- School Staffing Agencies: Agencies like Soliant specialize in helping SLP grads land their first CFY jobs, especially in school-based settings. Our recruiters connect you with positions that match your goals, location preferences, and supervision needs. Soliant also helps you navigate licensure, access to travel or local roles, mentorship connections, and ongoing support throughout your fellowship.
- University Career Centers: Many graduate programs have dedicated career advisors or job boards that list CFY openings.
- State Associations & Conferences: State associations often post CFY job openings on their websites and host job fairs or events where you can connect with hiring managers.
- Networking: Ask your clinical supervisors, professors, or classmates if they know of open positions.
When to Apply for SLP CFY
Most SLP grad students begin applying for CFY roles during their final semester or right after completing their externships. This usually means applying in spring or early summer if you’re graduating in May.
Find SLP CFY Openings Today
With the right support, your SLP CFY can be a time of growth, confidence-building, and genuine impact on students’ lives.
At Soliant, we’re dedicated to helping you every step of the way on your journey to becoming an SLP, from finding your first CFY job to navigating licensure and paperwork. Explore SLP CFY opportunities with Soliant today.
Looking for more SLP career resources? Explore more guides on SLP CFYs and their requirements, a breakdown of all the steps needed to become an SLP, and visit our speech-language pathologist resume outline & examples guide to help you get your foot in the door.
