The Rotary Peace Fellowship Program 2026 is a prestigious opportunity scholarship that is fully funded, specifically designed for global leaders committed to resolving conflicts and fostering peace. Hosted by top universities around the world, this fellowship offers both master’s degrees and professional certificates in peace studies.
With comprehensive financial coverage that includes tuition, travel, and living expenses, this opportunity scholarship ensures that scholars receive hands-on training, academic excellence, and unparalleled global networking opportunities.
The Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 program offers students practical experiences through a variety of research projects, field assignments, and community outreach activities. This initiative equips fellows with vital leadership capabilities, knowledge in policy-making, and effective conflict resolution techniques.
Supported by a network of over 1,500 experienced alumni, Rotary Peace Fellows make notable contributions to peacebuilding efforts in international organizations, government sectors, and NGOs, thereby creating a lasting and meaningful impact worldwide.
This opportunity scholarship is ideal for dedicated professionals passionate about promoting peace and development. The program offers immersive learning experiences, including internships and mentorship opportunities with global experts. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue impactful careers in diplomacy, humanitarian work, and social advocacy.
With full financial support, the Rotary Peace Fellowship empowers individuals to drive meaningful change and advance sustainable peace worldwide.
Rotary Peace Fellowships Details
Host Countries: USA, Japan, UK, Australia, Sweden, Thailand, Uganda
Host Institute: Various top universities worldwide through the Rotary Peace Centers
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded (includes tuition fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, all internship expenses, field-study expenses, and health insurance)
Duration: Varies depending on the program (master’s degrees and short certificate programs)
Eligibility: International students
Benefits
The Rotary Peace Fellowship Program offers an array of comprehensive benefits to its fellows, designed to support them throughout their academic and practical journey toward becoming leaders in peace and conflict resolution. Here are the detailed benefits:
1. Full Tuition Coverage
The fellowship covers the complete tuition fees for the master’s program or professional development certificate at the respective Rotary Peace Centers. Fellows can focus entirely on their studies without the financial burden of tuition costs.
2. Accommodation and Board Expenses
Fellows receive funding for lodging and meals during their study period, ensuring they have a comfortable living situation. This allows scholars to fully immerse themselves in their academic work and extracurricular activities.
3. Round-Trip Transportation
The program includes round-trip transportation expenses from the fellow’s home country to the host country. This benefit ensures that every fellow can travel to their selected institution without worrying about the cost of airfare.
4. Internship-related Expenses
Fellows are provided with financial support for internships, enabling them to gain practical experience in their field. This aspect of the fellowship ensures that participants can engage in significant internships without the constraint of financial limitations.
5. Field-Study Expenses
Field studies are an integral part of the fellowship, designed to provide hands-on experience in peace and conflict resolution. All necessary expenses for these field studies, such as travel, accommodation, and other related costs, are fully covered.
6. Comprehensive Health Insurance
To ensure the well-being of the fellows during their study period, the fellowship includes comprehensive health insurance. This benefit covers medical expenses, helping fellows manage their health without financial stress.
7. Leadership Development
The program fosters leadership skills through various training sessions, workshops, and seminars. Fellows receive mentorship from experienced professionals and educators in the field of peace and conflict resolution.
8. Access to Global Network
Joining the Rotary Peace Fellowship connects fellows to a vast network of alumni, peace advocates, and Rotary members worldwide. This network provides ongoing support, resources, and opportunities for collaboration even after the fellowship has ended.
9. Career Support and Guidance
Throughout the program, fellows receive career support including guidance on job placements, career counseling, and access to job opportunities within international organizations, non-profits, and governmental agencies.
Eligibility Criteria
The Rotary Peace Fellowship Program is highly competitive, seeking individuals who are committed to peace-building and conflict resolution. To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Professional Experience
Master’s Degree Program: Applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time relevant work experience in areas such as international relations, peace and conflict studies, development, or related fields.
Professional Development Certificate Program: Applicants should have a minimum of five years of relevant work experience. This program is tailored for experienced professionals currently working in peace-related fields who are seeking to enhance their skills.
2. Educational Background
Master’s Degree Program: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or its international equivalent from an accredited institution.
Professional Development Certificate Program: A bachelor’s degree is not required; however, applicants must demonstrate significant professional experience and advanced work in the field of peace and conflict resolution.
3. Proficiency in English
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, as all courses are conducted in English. This proficiency can be proven through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent, unless the applicant is a native speaker or has completed a degree program in English.
4. Demonstrated Commitment to Peace
Applicants must show a strong commitment to peace and conflict resolution through their work experience, academic background, and personal statement. This includes participation in volunteer work, community projects, or relevant professional roles.
5. Leadership Potential
The Rotary Peace Fellowship seeks individuals with leadership qualities who have the potential to influence and drive positive change in their communities and globally. Applicants should demonstrate leadership skills in their professional, academic, or volunteer activities.
6. Compatibility with Rotary’s Mission
Applicants should align with Rotary’s mission of promoting peace and understanding across cultures. They should be able to articulate how their career goals and personal aspirations align with this mission.
7. Geographic Diversity
Rotary International seeks to maintain geographic diversity within its peace fellowship program. This means that applicants from underrepresented regions may be given preference to ensure a globally diverse cohort of fellows.
8. Availability for Program Requirements
Applicants must be available to participate in the entire duration of their selected program (either the master’s degree program or the professional development certificate program). This includes attending classes, completing all required coursework, and participating in field studies and internships.
9. Rotary Membership
While current Rotary members and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply, individuals who have previously participated in Rotary programs (such as former Youth Exchange students) are encouraged to apply, provided they meet the other eligibility criteria.
Deadline
The application deadline to apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 is 15th May 2025.
How to Apply
Applying for the Rotary Peace Fellowship is a multi-step process. Follow these steps to ensure your application is complete and competitive:
1. Research the Program
Fellowship Programs: Understand the two distinct programs offered—the master’s degree program and the professional development certificate program. Determine which program aligns best with your career goals and professional experience.
Host Universities: Research the universities that offer the programs to ensure they meet your academic and professional needs. Each host university has specific areas of focus and strengths.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Before starting your application, gather and prepare the following documents:
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Detailed information regarding your educational background, professional experience, volunteer work, and other relevant activities.
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
Essay or Personal Statement: A detailed essay explaining your commitment to peace and conflict resolution, your leadership experiences, your career goals, and how the fellowship will help you achieve those goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Obtain letters of recommendation from professionals who can attest to your qualifications, character, and commitment to peace. Typically, two to three letters are required.
Standardized Test Scores: If applicable, submit your TOEFL, IELTS, or other English proficiency test scores.
3. Connect with a Rotary Club
Contact your local Rotary club to express your interest in applying for the fellowship. Rotary clubs play a vital role in the application process, including supporting your application and providing recommendations.
4. Submit the Online Application
Access the Portal: Navigate to Rotary International’s website to find the Rotary Peace Fellowship application page.
Fill in the Details: Accurately complete the online application form, making sure to include all necessary personal and professional information. Providing comprehensive and precise details is essential.
5. Club Endorsement
Submit to a Rotary Club: Once your online application is complete, submit your application to your local Rotary club for endorsement.
Interview with a Rotary Club: Schedule and attend an interview with your local Rotary club. This interview is a crucial step, as the club’s endorsement is required for the application to move forward.
6. District Endorsement
The endorsed application from the local Rotary club will be forwarded to the Rotary district for further review and endorsement. This step may involve additional interviews or assessments.
7. Rotary International Review
The district-endorsed applications are sent to Rotary International for the final selection process. This involves a thorough review by the Rotary Peace Centers Committee.
8. Notification of Results
Final Selection: Successful applicants will be notified of their selection as Rotary Peace Fellows. Notifications typically occur several months after the application deadline.
Acceptance and Commitment: Selected fellows must accept the fellowship and commit to attending the designated program. Various administrative details, including visa applications and housing arrangements, will be managed at this stage.
9. Application Deadlines
Important Dates: Pay close attention to application deadlines, which can be found on the Rotary International website. Missing a deadline may result in disqualification from the fellowship consideration.
10. Pre-Fellowship Preparation
Following acceptance, engage in any pre-fellowship preparation activities recommended by Rotary International or the host universities, such as preliminary coursework, orientation sessions, or preparatory readings.
Official Website
Applying for the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 is not just an opportunity scholarship; it is a journey towards becoming a catalyst for global peace and development. As a fully funded program, it removes financial barriers, enabling dedicated individuals to immerse themselves in intensive peace studies, gain hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork, and connect with a vibrant network of over 1,500 alumni who are making significant impacts worldwide. This fellowship stands out by empowering participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to drive meaningful change in diverse sectors such as diplomacy, humanitarian work, and social advocacy.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative experience that not only advances your career but also contributes to global efforts toward sustainable peace. Whether you aim to pursue a master’s degree or a professional certificate, the Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 provides a robust platform to develop your leadership skills and deepen your understanding of conflict resolution. Submit your application by 15th May 2025, and take the first step towards becoming a leader in peacebuilding. Explore this incredible opportunity and be prepared to make a lasting impact on the world.