The Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026 are fully funded international scholarships that support students pursuing a Master’s degree or professional certificate in peace, conflict resolution, and development at leading universities worldwide. The fellowship covers full tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses. It is one of the most prestigious global peace and leadership scholarships available.
Introduction
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is one of the most competitive and respected global scholarship programs for future leaders in peace, diplomacy, humanitarian service, and conflict resolution. Sponsored by Rotary International, the program is designed to develop professionals who can promote peace through academic excellence, leadership training, and real-world field experience.
Every year, Rotary selects exceptional candidates from around the world to study at top universities in the USA, UK, Japan, Australia, Sweden, and Thailand. For 2026, the Rotary Peace Fellowships offer full financial support, global networking, and career acceleration for individuals committed to creating positive social change.
What Is the Rotary Peace Fellowship?
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded graduate scholarship that supports individuals studying peace and conflict-related fields at selected partner universities.
Rotary offers two academic tracks:
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A fully funded Master’s degree (15 to 24 months)
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A fully funded professional development certificate (3 months)
Both programs combine academic training, leadership development, and hands-on peacebuilding experience.
What Does the Rotary Peace Fellowship Cover?
Financial Benefits
The Rotary Peace Fellowship is 100% funded and includes:
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Full tuition fees
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All required university fees
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Round-trip international airfare
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Monthly living allowance
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Housing and accommodation
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Internship or field-study funding
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Research and thesis support
Fellows can focus entirely on their studies and professional development without financial stress.
Where Can You Study?
Rotary Peace Fellows are placed at some of the world’s most respected universities.
Rotary Peace Centers
Selected universities include institutions in:
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United States
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United Kingdom
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Japan
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Australia
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Sweden
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Thailand
Each Peace Center specializes in peace studies, international relations, conflict management, and sustainable development.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants for the Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026 must:
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Hold a bachelor’s degree
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Have at least three years of relevant work experience (for Master’s)
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Demonstrate a strong commitment to peace and international development
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Have leadership and community involvement experience
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Be proficient in English
Who Is Not Eligible
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Current Rotary members or close family of Rotary members
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Individuals who have previously completed a Rotary Peace Fellowship
Fields of Study Covered
Rotary Peace Fellowships support graduate programs related to:
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Peace and Conflict Studies
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International Relations
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Development Studies
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Human Rights
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Public Policy
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International Security
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Global Governance
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Humanitarian and Refugee Studies
These fields lead to careers in global organizations, diplomacy, NGOs, and international agencies.
Why Rotary Peace Fellowships Are So Powerful
Global Recognition
Rotary International operates in over 200 countries. Being a Rotary Peace Fellow gives you instant international credibility.
Career Impact
Graduates work in:
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United Nations
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World Bank
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International NGOs
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Government agencies
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Diplomacy and foreign service
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Human rights organizations
Networking Advantage
You join a global alumni network of peace leaders and policymakers.
How to Apply for Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1 – Choose Your Program
Decide whether to apply for the Master’s program or the Certificate program.
Step 2 – Contact Your Local Rotary Club
All applications must be submitted through a Rotary Club. You cannot apply directly to the university.
Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents
You will need:
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Academic transcripts
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CV or résumé
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Statement of purpose
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Letters of recommendation
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Proof of English proficiency
Step 4 – Rotary Interview and Endorsement
Your local Rotary Club will interview you and decide whether to endorse your application.
Step 5 – University Placement
If approved, Rotary will place you at one of its Peace Centers.
Application Timeline
Applications for Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026 typically open in early 2025 and close around May. Selection and placement decisions are made later in the year.
FAQs
Is the Rotary Peace Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, travel, housing, and living expenses.
Can international students apply?
Yes. Applicants from all countries are eligible.
Is IELTS required?
Some universities may require proof of English proficiency, but many applicants qualify through alternative proof.
How competitive is the Rotary Peace Fellowship?
Very competitive. Only a small number of top global candidates are selected each year.
Why You Should Apply Now
Rotary Peace Fellowships are one of the few scholarships that provide full funding, global recognition, leadership training, and direct career pathways into international organizations. If your goal is to become a global leader in peace, diplomacy, or development, this is one of the strongest opportunities available in 2026.
Conclusion
The Rotary Peace Fellowships 2026 offer a rare opportunity to earn a fully funded graduate degree or professional certificate at world-class universities while joining a global network of peacebuilders. With complete financial support and unmatched international prestige, this fellowship can transform your career and your impact on the world.
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