The Rotary Peace Fellowship 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for dedicated professionals to study at top universities worldwide. Every year, Rotary International awards up to 130 fully funded fellowships to emerging leaders who are committed to promoting peace and conflict resolution. The program covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and field study expenses, ensuring that fellows can focus on their education and professional growth.
Since its launch in 2002, the Rotary Peace Centers Program has trained over 1,800 peace fellows who now work in 140+ countries, contributing to global peace efforts. These fellows hold leadership positions in governments, NGOs, peacekeeping forces, international organizations like the United Nations and the World Bank, and more. This fellowship empowers professionals with academic training, practical experience, and global networking opportunities to drive sustainable change.
The Rotary Peace Fellowship offers two programs: a Master’s Degree Program and a Professional Development Certificate Program. The Master’s Program runs for 15-24 months, including a field study. The Certificate Program is a one-year blended learning program designed for mid-career professionals seeking advanced training. Both programs focus on developing leadership skills and enhancing the impact of peace and development professionals.
The application process for the 2026-27 fellowship is now open, with a deadline of May 15, 2025. If you are a peace-driven leader with relevant work experience, this could be your chance to make a difference globally. Don’t miss out on this fully funded opportunity to gain a world-class education and expand your impact in the field of peace and conflict resolution.
Quick Overview of Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026
- Host Countries: Multiple (USA, Japan, UK, Australia, Sweden, Uganda, Türkiye)
- Host Universities:
- Duke University
- University of North Carolina
- ICU Tokyo
- University of Bradford
- University of Queensland
- Uppsala University
- Makerere University
- Bahçeşehir University
- Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Programs: Master’s Degree & Professional Certificate in Peace and Development
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded (tuition, travel, living stipend, field study)
- Age Limit: No specific age limit
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s), work experience in peace or development, strong leadership skills
Perks of Conflict Resolution Fellowships
- Full financial support for tuition, accommodation, travel, and research expenses
- Global networking with top peace professionals, NGOs, and organizations
- Exclusive academic training from leading universities
- Hands-on field experience for real-world impact
- Mentorship and career support from Rotary experts
- Pathway to leadership roles in peace and development organizations
Benefits of Peace Fellowship Program 2026-27
- Boost your expertise and credibility in peacebuilding roles.
- Earn a prestigious fellowship from a globally respected organization.
- Gain critical leadership and conflict resolution skills.
- Work with diverse professionals from around the world.
- Apply your learning in real-world projects through field studies.
Exclusions of Leadership in Peace Development Program
- Doctoral studies are not covered.
- Active Rotary members, their relatives, and Rotary employees are not eligible.
- Candidates must have a three-year gap between their last degree and the start of the fellowship.
- Applicants currently enrolled in a degree program are ineligible.
- Rotary Peace Fellows who have completed a Global Grant Scholarship must wait three years to reapply.
Eligibility Criteria for the Fully Funded Fellowship Program
Master’s Degree Program
- Must have a bachelor’s degree.
- At least three years of full-time relevant work experience in peace or development.
- Proficiency in English.
- Strong commitment to peace and cross-cultural understanding.
- Demonstrated leadership skills.
- Must wait three years after completing a prior degree before applying.
Professional Certificate Program
- Minimum of five years of relevant work experience in peace or development.
- Must have a bachelor’s degree.
- Proficiency in English.
- Proven leadership in a social change initiative.
- Must align their initiative with Rotary’s mission.
- Must wait three years after completing a prior degree before applying.
Important Dates for Leadership Development Fellowships
- Application Opens: February 2025
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
- Interview and Selection: Mid to Late 2025
- Final Notification: November 2025
- Program Start Date: 2026-27 Academic Year
How to Apply for Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026
- Check your eligibility based on work experience and education.
- Research the program at different Rotary Peace Centers.
- Engage with Rotary Clubs for networking and recommendations.
- Gather necessary documents (resume, academic/professional references, transcripts, personal statement, English proficiency scores).
- Submit your application online by May 15, 2025.
- Await notification of qualification and selection results in November 2025.
- If selected, apply for admission to your assigned university.
🔗 Apply Now: Peace Fellowship Application
Required Documents for Rotary Peace Fellowships
- Resume/CV
- Academic Transcripts (for Master’s)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement (Video & Essays)
- English Proficiency Test Scores (if required)
- Social Change Initiative Plan (for Certificate Program)
- Rotary Club/District Recommendation (Optional but Encouraged)
Country-Specific Criteria (For Certificate Program) for the Rotary Peace Fellowships
- Makerere University, Uganda: Candidates must be from Africa, have worked in Africa, or demonstrate a strong interest in peacebuilding within Africa.
- Bahçeşehir University, Türkiye: Candidates must be from the Middle East or North Africa, have worked in the region, or show strong interest in peacebuilding in MENA.
For more details, visit the Rotary’s official website.
