Applications are now open for the Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026, a fully funded international fellowship program offered by Rotary International for students and professionals dedicated to peace, conflict resolution, and international development. This fellowship allows participants to study at one of the Rotary Peace Centers located in leading universities around the world.
Rotary Peace Fellowships are awarded annually and support both Master’s degree programs and professional development certificate programs. The program aims to train future leaders who can promote peace, justice, and sustainable development across the globe. Since its establishment, the Rotary Peace Fellowship program has trained thousands of fellows who now work in key roles in governments, NGOs, international organizations like the United Nations, and other sectors.
Fellowship Overview (Quick Table)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026 |
| Organizer | Rotary International |
| Fellowship Level | Master’s Degree & Professional Certificate |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Program Duration | 15 to 24 Months (Master’s), ~3 Months (Certificate) |
| Eligible Nationalities | All Countries |
| Language Test | Not Required for Some Programs (English proficiency recommended) |
| Application Deadline | 15 May 2026 |
Financial Benefits
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is fully funded and covers:
- Full tuition and required university fees
- Room and board (housing and meals)
- Round-trip international transportation
- Internship and field-study expenses
- Health insurance for the fellowship period
Program Tracks
Rotary Peace Fellowships are offered in two main tracks:
Master’s Degree Program
This track offers an advanced degree in peace and conflict studies, peacebuilding, or related international affairs fields. The program typically lasts 15 to 24 months, includes academic coursework and a fieldwork component, and is hosted at one of the Rotary Peace Centers worldwide.
Professional Development Certificate Program
This option is designed for experienced peace and development practitioners. It usually involves an intensive program of study and field-based experience for approximately three months at a Rotary Peace Center focused on practical skills and leadership development.
Participating Institutions
Rotary Peace Fellowships are hosted at leading universities and peace centers around the world, including:
- University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- University of Bradford, Bradford, England
- International Christian University, Tokyo, Japan
- Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Duke University & University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA
- Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand (certificate program)
- Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda (certificate program)
Eligibility Criteria
Rotary Peace Fellowships are open to applicants from all nationalities worldwide. To be eligible:
- For the Master’s degree program, applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and have at least three years of professional or volunteer experience related to peace, development, or conflict resolution. Leadership potential and a commitment to peace are essential.
- For the Professional Development Certificate Program, applicants typically need at least five years of relevant work experience and a clear plan demonstrating how the fellowship will enhance their impact in peacebuilding and development.
- Proficiency in English is recommended for all programs; however, specific language requirements may vary with the host institution.
Selection Process
Rotary Peace Fellowship applications are highly competitive. Candidates are evaluated on academic and professional achievements, leadership potential, commitment to international understanding and peace, and experience in community service or related fields. Applications are typically submitted online between February and 15 May 2026. Final selection decisions and Peace Center assignments are generally announced later in the year.
Required Documents
Applicants are expected to prepare and submit:
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Academic and/or Professional Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement and Essays
- Academic Transcripts (for Master’s applicants)
- English proficiency test scores if required (Master’s programs)
- Social Impact Plan (for Certificate applicants)
- Other supporting documents as requested by the Rotary Peace Center or application portal
How to Apply for Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026
Interested candidates must submit an online application through the official Rotary Peace Centers application portal. Applicants should carefully review all eligibility and submission requirements before completing their submission. The official application period typically opens in February and closes on 15 May 2026.
Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
