Imagine being part of a global network dedicated to fostering peace and resolving conflicts worldwide. Picture yourself at the forefront of international diplomacy, equipped with the knowledge and skills to make a lasting impact. The Rotary Peace Fellowships offer you this incredible opportunity, and the doors are now open for the 2025-2026 cohort.
This isn’t just a scholarship—it’s a transformative journey that empowers you to become a leader in peace and conflict resolution. Whether you dream of influencing policy at the United Nations, leading humanitarian missions, or teaching the next generation of peacebuilders, the Rotary Peace Fellowships provide the resources and support to turn your aspirations into reality.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this prestigious program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, so you can take the first step toward your future as a global leader.
Why Apply?
The Rotary Peace Fellowship offers up to 150 fellowships annually, divided between the Professional Development Certificate Program and the Master’s Degree Program. These fellowships are geared towards individuals committed to peace and conflict resolution, providing them with the tools and knowledge to become leaders in their fields.
Since its inception in 2002, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained over 1,400 fellows, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in government, NGOs, the military, education, law enforcement, and international organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank.
Participating Institutions
The fellowship is hosted by several prestigious universities around the world, including:
- Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
- International Christian University, Japan
- University of Bradford, England
- University of Queensland, Australia
- Uppsala University, Sweden
- Chulalongkorn University, Thailand (certificate program)
- Makerere University, Uganda (certificate program)
Scholarship Overview
- Level of Study: Master’s
- Institution(s): See list above
- Study Locations: USA, Japan, UK, Australia, Sweden, Thailand, Uganda
- Program Duration: 15-24 months for Master’s degree programs, 3-month Professional Development Certificate program
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2024 (annual)
- Number of Scholarships: Up to 50 fellowships for master’s degrees and 80 for certificate programs each year
- Focus Areas: Peace, International Development, and Leadership
What the Scholarship Covers
The Rotary Peace Fellowship covers:
- Tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Round-trip transportation
- All internship and field-study expenses
Eligibility Criteria
The Rotary Peace Fellowships are aimed at professionals with experience in international relations, peace, and conflict prevention and resolution. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English; a second language is strongly recommended
- Leadership: Strong leadership skills and a demonstrated commitment to peace and international understanding through professional, academic, or community service
- For Master’s Applicants: Minimum of three years of full-time work or volunteer experience in a related field and a bachelor’s degree
- For Certificate Applicants: Minimum of five years of full-time work or volunteer experience and a strong academic background
How to Apply for Rotary Peace Fellowships?
To apply for the Rotary Peace Fellowships, follow these steps:
- Review Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the application guidelines and check the eligibility requirements and restrictions.
- Research Centers: Explore the curriculum and programs offered at each Rotary Peace Center and rank your top two preferences.
- Prepare Application: Gather all necessary documents including your resume/CV, essays, academic or professional recommendations, transcripts, and test scores (for certificate candidates, transcripts and scores are not required). All materials must be submitted in English.
- District Contact: Reach out to your local Rotary district to arrange an interview. District endorsement is a required part of the application process. Tip: Your local Rotary club can assist in connecting you with your district. Use the Club Finder tool to locate the nearest club.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit your online application to your district by May 15.
- Interview: Participate in an interview with district representatives. District endorsements must be submitted to The Rotary Foundation by July 1.
- Selection Notification: Wait for the selection results in November. If selected, you will be notified about the Peace Center where you will study.
- University Admission: After being selected for the fellowship, apply for admission to the university where your Peace Center is located. Note that selection for the fellowship does not guarantee admission to the university.
For a detailed application process, visit the official scholarship website.